On Holy Thursday evening we read 15 Gospel passages, virtually all the Gospel text relating to Our Lord's betrayal, trial, Crucifixion and Resurrection.
During this service the priest brings a large Cross from the altar area and places it in the center of the Temple as we sing:
Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross. Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross. Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross. He who is King of the angels is arrayed in a crown of thorns. He who wraps the heaven in clouds is wrapped in the purple of mockery. He who in Jordan set Adam free receives blows upon his face. The bridegroom of the Church is pierced with a spear. We venerate Thy Passion, O Christ. We venerate Thy Passion, O Christ. We venerate Thy Passion, O Christ. Show us also Thy glorious Resurrection.
