St. Mary’s offers open communion and baptism

The Episcopal Church of St. Mary-in-the-Highlands once again invites all to their services during Holy Week and Easter, beginning with the “Triduum” — one service broken up over three days — Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday (March 28-30). 

Easter vigil
The Holy Saturday candlelight service (Photo courtesy of St. Mary’s)

Occurring three days before Easter, “Maundy” Thursday takes its name from the Latin “Mandatum Novum” (New Commandment) namely, to love one another. At the Maundy Thursday Mass, everyone is reminded of Christ washing the feet of the Apostles — that they are to serve and never be judgmental.

The other part of the Mass commemorates Christ’s “Last Supper,” where everyone is encouraged to receive Holy Communion (especially those who have been denied it in the past for whatever reason). Following the Mass, the Blessed Sacrament (the Eucharistic bread) is exposed for public adoration until midnight. The church’s chapel is decorated with candlelight and plants to recreate the Garden of Gethsemane.

The Good Friday Liturgy (March 29 at noon) is an ecumenical service where local Christian churches join together in unity before a life-size cross carried in by the local clergy. Hot cross buns will be served in the Parish Hall after the service.

On Holy Saturday Night (March 30 at 7 p.m.), anyone (child or adult) who has not been previously baptized is welcome to receive the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. Everyone is invited to bring a bell to help “ring in” Easter. The service is followed by a champagne reception to welcome the newly baptized and the arrival of Easter.

Anyone seeking baptism for themselves or their children can contact Rev. Shane Scott-Hamblen at 845-265-2539 or [email protected], or arrive at 6:30 p.m. to make arrangements.

Easter Sunday Masses will be at the usual 8 and 10:30 a.m. Absolutely everyone is welcome to attend the “Triduum” and Easter Masses. St. Mary-in-the-Highlands is located at the corner of Routes 9D and 301 in Cold Spring. For more information, visit their website, stmaryscoldspringny.org.

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