Bring the Kids, Bring a Flower

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CRANFORD ANNOUNCES HOLY WEEK AND EASTER EVENTS

Cranford, New Jersey (April 10, 2025) - The First Presbyterian Church of Cranford (FPCC), 11 Springfield Ave., Cranford, invites you to a joyous Easter experience! Encounter the extraordinary divine power that Jesus revealed to us through his resurrection. There will be a series of worship events the week leading up to Easter. Here’s the Holy Week rundown:

PALM SUNDAY, April 13 at 10am: Holy Week begins. All children are invited to joyfully march into the Sanctuary waving palms in the children’s “Palm Processional.” This reminds us of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, as he was greeted with shouts of “Hosanna,” and waving palm branches as a sign of celebration and great expectation.

MAUNDY THURSDAY, April 17 at 7pm: Holy Week continues as we remember Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples before his death on the cross. Communion by intinction will be offered.

GOOD FRIDAY COMMUNITY WORSHIP, April 18 at Noon: First Presbyterian Church of Cranford is honored to host the annual Community Good Friday Service, a meaningful gathering of all local houses of worship and community members. This ecumenical service brings together people of many faith backgrounds for a solemn time of reflection and unity as we remember the significance of the day. Join us as we stand together in spirit and fellowship.

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE, April 20 at 7am: Join us on the front steps of the Sanctuary in the spring air as the sun rises, celebrating the triumph of life over death and light over darkness. Bring a flower from your garden and place it on the cross on the front lawn. Flowers will also be provided.

EASTER CELEBRATION SERVICE, April 20 at 10am: It will be an exciting Easter worship service at FPCC! All children will receive a special “goody bag” filled with fun items. Anyone who turns in a connection card at the welcome table will receive a free gift. Children will brighten the Sanctuary by carrying flowers forward during the first hymn and placing them in the front of the Sanctuary. In a beloved tradition, you are invited to come forward to sing the “Hallelujah Chorus” with the choir at the end of the service. This service will also be livestreamed to Facebook and YouTube.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: We know visiting a church for the first time can feel weird and awkward. That’s why we’ve created “Plan Your Visit.” Fill out the Plan Your Visit form on our website here firstprescranford.org/easter and we will meet you at the front door, show you around and introduce you to the Pastor before you leave. We will treat you like family, and you will leave feeling loved!

ABOUT THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CRANFORD - As the body of Christ empowered by the Holy Spirit, we seek to live God’s Word and inspire others to embrace Jesus’ commandment to love one another as the Lord loves us. For more information, contact the church office at 908-276-8440, or visit the website at firstprescranford.org/Easter. A chair lift is available for the mobility impaired at the Springfield Avenue office entrance.