Tenebrae

The service is defined by specific ceremonial actions that visualize the abandonment of Christ:

: As the service progresses through psalms and readings, the candles are snuffed out one by one. This symbolizes the desertion of Jesus by his disciples. Tenebrae

Tenebrae dates back to at least the and was originally a combination of the monastic offices of Matins (nocturnal prayer) and Lauds (morning prayer). Traditionally, these were sung in the early hours of the morning, but they were often "anticipated" by being held the evening before. While it was a cornerstone of the Roman Catholic liturgy for centuries, it is now also practiced in various adapted forms by Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and other Protestant denominations. The service is defined by specific ceremonial actions

: A special triangular candelabra typically holding 15 candles. Traditionally, these were sung in the early hours

: A sudden, loud noise made at the very end of the service—often by slamming a book or stomping—symbolizing the earthquake at the moment of Christ’s death or the closing of the tomb.