Music resources and material for Jane Williams’ reflections have been added.

Consider using the 10 Commandments as part of your preparation for confession today (p.521 ANZPB/HKMOA) or scroll down on this page for them.

The Gospel lends itself to dramatic reading, especially if you used a male voice from the back of the assembly for the words of Jesus.

Lenten observance in churches is typically marked by the removal of decorations (flowers, banners etc.) but mere absence misses an opportunity to highlight the symbolism of the season. Dried branches, thorny bushes and stones are all appropriate enhancements. On this particular day, if you have the space, an overturned table with coins on the floor, a whip made of cords (macrame, anyone?) could be very… um… striking. For the more traditionally minded, consider one large, plain pottery vase with dried sticks and dead grasses (maize is good at this time of year in A/NZ). Go on, do something different!

Ian