Something “just a little different” at church this
Sunday, April 12!
The tradition of Holy Humor Sunday – or, by its title in the ancient Church, “Bright Sunday” – is an old one.
During the middle ages in parts of Europe, especially Germany, churches developed a tradition called Risus Paschalis, Latin for “the Easter laugh.” On the Second Sunday of Easter, preachers would use humor and jokes to celebrate God’s victory over death.
While the practice faded over time (some accounts suggest it was because the gatherings became a little too rowdy, with beer and wine flowing a bit too freely), still, the core theological meaning remains. At Easter we celebrate the good news that through Christ, death doesn’t get the last laugh.
Our service of worship will be sprinkled with jokes,
puns, and the unexpected. Wear something fun to church, and come ready to celebrate the joy at the heart of the Christian life!