PASSOVER  HALL  PREPARATION

INSTRUCTIONS

              The Commeration of Christ's Passover service is a solemn BUT JOYFUL occasion.  It is not a time for cutting up and general fellowshipping.  Therefore, prior to the service, the church members should assemble quietly and respectfully.  Christ’s Passover meal with His disciples reflected warmth and friendship, without detracting from the solemnity of the occasion.  Our minds should be focused on the purpose of the service and our relationship with God.  This service is a most serious occasion —the anniversary of the death of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  The Passover is observed in MEMORY of His suffering and death.

              If two ministers are sharing the service, they should simply decide on the appropriate places to change speakers.  There is no set format for a shared service.

              The service is for adults only.  No one should participate in the service except those members wishing to take on the cymbolism and focus of their relationship to God and Christ..  (The   responsibility for that decision belongs to the individual).

              In advance, purchase or prepare a sufficient amount of unleavened bread.  Either homemade or commercially available unleavened bread is suitable for the service.  If the bread is purchased, be sure that it is completely unleavened.  Some so-called unleavened bread has some leavening ingredients.  Even the word “kosher” does not ensure that the bread is free of all leavening agents.  Read the ingredients label.  If you try a new kind, be sure to taste it first to be certain that it is easily edible.

              If you choose to use homemade bread, those baking it should be careful to bake it in a leaven-free environment.  It should be made no more than a day or two in advance to ensure freshness.  Be sure to make more than you think you will need and have extra on hand backstage at the service.

              Also have ready a sufficient amount of natural red wine.  Wine has no active leaven remaining because of the alcohol content.  Be sure you obtain a natural, unfortified wine.  Alcoholic content will be between 10% and 13%.  Wines containing 19% and 20% are fortified with grape brandy and should not be used.  The label will tell you the percentage of alcohol.  It should be a red wine—preferably claret or burgundy, but any natural red wine could be used.  Do not take the bottles into the hall where the service is held, but only the small amount poured previously into the little glasses.  If you know the exact number of people partaking of the service, there will be none left over to be destroyed.

              Be sure the hall is clean and prepared very neatly.  Where possible, the tables should be covered with white tablecloths.  White napkins should be used to cover the unleavened bread, which has been placed on a tray (or trays).  If there is no cover on the wine tray a napkin can be used to cover the wine as well.

               It is important to have enough space in the hall to accommodate the footwashing service with men and women in separate rooms.  See that this part of the meeting is well thought out and organized to prevent confusion.