Holy Week and Easter with St. Cross

Holy Week is a sacred time in the life of the Church, a journey that invites us to walk with Christ through his final days, his suffering, and ultimately, his glorious resurrection. It is a time of deep reflection, powerful worship, and communal devotion. This year, we are joining with Christ Church Redondo Beach, St. Andrew’s Torrance, and St. Francis Palos Verdes for our services, coming together as one body in Christ. Different clergy will lead and preach at different services, offering
unique perspectives as we move through this most holy season. Below are details to guide you through this meaningful week, from the solemnity of the crucifixion to the joy of the resurrection.

Palm Sunday

Sunday, April 13th, 8 AM & 10 AM | St. Cross, Hermosa Beach

Join us for the blessing, waving, and procession of the palms as we proclaim Hosanna! on Palm Sunday. During the service, we shift our focus to the Passion. The youth of the church will present a Passion Play, and the service will conclude with the stripping of the altar as we enter the stark reality of Holy Week.

Holy Wednesday Tenebrae

Wednesday, April 16th, 7 PM | St. Andrew’s, Torrance

Tenebrae is a service that reflects the daily office. The service begins with a hearse of candles. Psalms and prayers are read for each section, and at the end of each set, a candle is extinguished. After the final candle goes dark, there is silence, followed by a loud noise symbolizing the earthquake, after which a light returns.

Maundy Thursday

Thursday, April 17th, 12 PM | Christ Church, Redondo Beach

A traditional prayer book service for Maundy Thursday, including the washing of feet. Mo. Julie of Christ Church will preach.

Thursday, April 17th, 6 PM | St. Francis, Palos Verdes

Maundy Thursday (Mandatum—”mandate”) commemorates the Last Supper. The community of St. Francis invites us all to join them for an Agape Feast, followed by the celebration of the Eucharist. Mo. Julie Beals from Christ Church/St. Andrew’s will be preaching.

Good Friday

Friday, April 18th, 12 PM – 3 PM | St. Cross, Hermosa Beach

This Good Friday service is a three-hour service featuring spoken meditations on the last words of Christ, each followed by prayers. Participants are welcome to stay for the entire service or enter and exit at the end of each section (about 25 minutes each). The St. Cross labyrinth will be available for walking meditation. All clergy will offer a meditation.

Friday, April 18th, 7 PM | Christ Church, Redondo Beach

Join us for a traditional prayer book service for Good Friday, including a procession, prayer, and veneration of the Cross.

The Great Easter Vigil

Saturday, April 19th, 7:30 PM | St. Andrew’s, Torrance

Perhaps the most profound service of the Christian year, the Easter Vigil is steeped in the history and mystery of the Church. The service includes readings that tell the story of our faith, stirring music, and the celebration of the resurrection moment with Eucharist. Rev. Michelle of St. Cross will preach.

Easter Sunday

Sunday, April 20th, 8 AM & 10:30 AM | St. Cross, Hermosa Beach

Join us for our festive Easter services, featuring a joyful brass quintet, beloved Easter hymns, and a sermon by Rev. Rachel. An Easter egg hunt will follow each service. We look forward to celebrating Jesus’ resurrection with you and your family on this most joyous of Sundays!

Flowering of the Cross

Sunday, April 27th, 8 AM & 10:00 AM | St. Cross, Hermosa Beach

  Join us as we celebrate the beauty and hope of our faith with the Flowering of the Cross. We invite everyone to actively participate by bringing flowers to decorate the cross.