Holy Week with Jackson First

Whether you are a regular part of our church family or seeking a place to worship this Holy Week, you are welcome. Come as you are and experience the hope and love of Christ with us.

Palm Sunday Worship | 10:30am

As we enter into Holy Week, we do so with excitement. Jesus’ arrival into Jerusalem was a day full of fanfare and praise. “Look! He enters the city gates! The Messiah has come! Hosanna!” Palms were laid at his feet! Children sang. Some even climbed trees to get a better look at the Messiah as He rode a donkey into Jerusalem. There was so much excitement in the air. But…. we know the rest of the story, don’t we? We know that while the week of Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem started with fanfare, that excitement was not to last. Soon, the week would turn angry with betrayal, a trial and ultimately, Jesus’ death on a cross. What were Jesus’ thoughts as He hung on the cross? What were His Prayers?

“How long, O God, will You neglect my prayer?

Will You neglect these tears of dark despair?

Yet not My will, but Yours alone be done:

Forsake not, man, but Me. Your sinless Son.”

We invite you to join us on Palm Sunday, April 13 as our Music Ministry shares a highly emotional service of Jesus; “Forsaken on the Cross.” This 10:30 service will be presented by your Music Ministry with our Chancel Choir, Organ, Piano and solo violin! We hope that you and your family will join us so that you will know…. the rest of the story!

Sacred Sounds | A Holy Week Meditation

As we move through the sacred days of Holy Week, take time to pause, breathe, and settle into a space of reflection with a Sound Meditation Experience led by a board-certified music therapist.

Through the soothing sounds of singing bowls, flute, and voice, this guided meditation invites you to step away from the noise of daily life and into a place of stillness—one where you can open your heart to God’s presence. This is a time to rest, reflect, and renew as you journey through the story of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.

Date: April 15, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Jackson First UMC | 275 W Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201

What to Expect:

A guided meditation experience with live music
The gentle, resonant sounds of singing bowls, flute, and voice
A peaceful space for personal reflection and prayer

No prior experience with meditation or music is needed—just come as you are. Whether you’re seeking quiet contemplation, spiritual renewal, or simply a moment to breathe, this time is for you.

We look forward to sharing this sacred experience together as we prepare our hearts for the resurrection of Christ.

In His Presence | A Maundy Thursday Vigil of Prayer

Join us for a sacred time of prayer and reflection during our Maundy Thursday Prayer Vigil, as we remember the night Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Our goal is to keep continuous prayer for 12 hours in the church Chapel, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. We invite you to sign up for a 30-minute time slot to come and pray in person. You may sign up for multiple slots if you feel called to pray longer.

Together, let’s create a holy space of ongoing prayer as we prepare our hearts for Good Friday and Easter.

Good Friday Tenebrae Service

We invite you to join us for a Good Friday Tenebrae Service, a solemn and powerful time of worship as we reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Tenebrae, which means “darkness” or “shadows,” is an ancient Christian service that leads us through the final hours of Jesus’ life. Through a series of Scripture readings, music, prayers, and the gradual extinguishing of candles, we will walk together through the story of Christ’s passion and death. As the light fades, we are drawn deeper into the meaning of His sacrifice and the hope that comes through the cross.

This moving service will create space for personal reflection, repentance, and gratitude as we prepare our hearts for the joy of Resurrection Sunday.

Date: April 18, 2025
Time: 6:30PM

Come and experience this sacred journey to the cross — a time to pause, remember, and be renewed in God’s incredible love for us.

Easter Sunday

He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Join us this Easter Sunday as we gather to celebrate the hope, joy, and new life we have in the Risen Christ! Whether you’re a long-time member, a returning friend, or visiting for the first time — you are welcome here.

April 20, 2025
10:30am
Jackson First UMC | 275 W Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201

There will also be a petting zoo and Easer Egg hunt available after Worship!

Come and experience uplifting music, a message of hope, and the joy of Easter community.
Bring your family and friends — all are welcome!

🌸 Celebrate New Life. Experience Hope. Come as You Are. 🌸

Learn more: www.firstumcjackson.org

Easter Eggstravaganza | Hops, Hope & Hallelujahs!

A celebration filled with joy, laughter, and festive activities for all ages! Whether you’re hunting for eggs, enjoying stories, or making Easter crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Join us for a day of egg-citing fun and memorable moments with family and friends. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to celebrate Easter together!

Date: April 20, 2025
Time: 11:30-1:30PM

Event Registration