MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – Holy Week at Middletown Community United Methodist Church begins when the Rev. Henry Zombil of Congo presents a video of his January trip to the Holy Land during the Sunday service at 11 a.m. April 1.

Pastor Voris Brumfield will present the message, “Slumming with the Cosmic Christ,” and both pastors will serve Holy Communion.

“The rituals of Easter have brought great understanding to the lives of Christians for over 2,000 years,” said Brumfield. “In general, the importance of spiritual growth has become less important to many people. Distractions in life or the focus on physical and mental development appear to overshadow spiritual development. We welcome everyone to attend the healing events of Holy Week.”

Holy Week continues with the 6 p.m. Maundy Thursday Service on April 5, which is highlighted with the Last Supper that Christ served during the Passover meal.

Walking a colorful Labyrinth in the 115-year-old Methodist Sanctuary on Good Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Holy Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. while mediating on the spiritual connection to the Passion of Christ can be a new experience for many.

For persons with physical limitations a finger labyrinth will be available while inspirational music will be played. It is best to complete the walk in silence.

A multi-church Ecumenical Easter Sunrise Service will be held at the Middletown Cemetery on Butts Canyon Road on April 8 at 6:15 a.m.

The film "Jesus" will be shown at 9 a.m. in the Methodist Church Sanctuary followed by the 11 a.m. New Life Service which includes "bringing new life" to the 6-foot cross symbolizing resurrection from death.  

The Middletown Methodist Church is located at the corner of Armstrong and Washington streets.

For more information call 707-295-7174.