This year, as in years past, we invite all children and youth to be actively engaged in the marvels of the entire Holy Week leading into Easter. Children are, of course, welcome at ALL services, and we hope they will come join the journey into the Easter Season.
Please mark on your calendars the following dates that may be of particular interest to children and their families.All the events described below will take place at Immanuel Chapel, 3737 Seminary Road, Alexandria, on the campus of the Virginia Theological Seminary:
April 18 - Maundy Thursday, 7:30 p.m. This is a solemn but beautiful service with optional foot washing. You may want to discuss with children how Jesus washed the disciples’ feet at the Last Supper, and how the foot washing they will see (and participate in, if they wish) at the service is a way to serve others in the spirit of Christ.
April 19 – Good Friday, 6:00 p.m. We are holding a family service for children and youth that will include an interactive walk through the Stations of the Cross.
April 20 – Saturday Easter Vigil, 7:30 p.m. This vigil is a unique service that is a special opportunity for all ages to gather and celebrate the closing of Lent and welcome Easter morning. It is in part a celebration of Baptism and can truly be a great experience for children. Meet at 7:30 p.m. in the Immanuel Chapel garden to begin the service, which will then proceed into the chapel. The dessert reception that follows this service will be held in the Welcome Center and is open to all ages.
April 21 – Easter Sunday. There will be special homilies at both the 9:15a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Easter services, aimed at connecting with children. Also, Immanuel will be hosting an EASTER EGG HUNT on the grounds of Virginia Theological Seminary following the end of the 9:15 service.