Friday, April 18th

Good Friday marks a significant observance within the Christian community, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and His profound sacrifice for humanity. This year, Sonrise Church invites you to deeply engage with the theme "The Emotions of Redemption," reflecting on Christ’s journey from His incarnation to His crucifixion.

Prayer & Fasting Experience | Service

Date: April 18, 2025
Church Open for Prayer: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Evening Service: 6:00 PM

Activities

  • Prayer Time: The church doors will be open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM for anyone wishing to come and pray in a self-led format. Resources will be provided to guide your reflection and prayer.

  • Evening Service: Join us at 6:00 PM for an hour-long service filled with scripture readings, messages, and music that honor Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

  • Fasting: We encourage fasting from Thursday evening until the end of the Good Friday service as a spiritual discipline to deepen reflection on Christ’s profound sacrifice.

Theme Focus

"The Emotions of Redemption" aims to foster a deeper connection and passion for Christ by exploring His compassion, sympathy, and joy from incarnation to crucifixion. This Good Friday, we pray for personal renewal and for those close to us yet far from God.

Key Scriptures

  • Compassion: Hebrews 10:5-7

  • Sympathy: Hebrews 4:15-16

  • Joy: Hebrews 12:1-2

Prayer Focus

Participants are encouraged to focus their prayers on someone they know who needs God’s grace, reflecting on how Christ’s life and ultimate sacrifice can inspire us to reach out and help bring them closer to God.

Logistics

  • Entry: Please use the Main Entrance of the church.

  • Parking: Ample parking is available.

  • Seating: First-come, first-served basis in the main sanctuary.

  • Accessibility: The church is wheelchair accessible, with assistance available for those who require it.

  • Prayer Time Registration: We encourage you to register here for a specific time slot to come and pray. This helps us ensure a smooth flow and maintain a conducive environment for prayer.

We hope to see you there as we reflect, pray, and worship together on this sacred day.

FAQs

Why 'The Emotions of Redemption'?

This theme allows us to connect with the deep emotional journey Christ underwent during His crucifixion, enhancing our appreciation of His sacrifice.

What should I bring to the prayer time?

Feel free to bring a Bible, a prayer journal, and any personal items that aid in your prayer and reflection. Chairs and kneelers are available for use.

Can I bring my children?

Absolutely! Good Friday is a crucial part of their spiritual education, helping them understand the significance of Christ's sacrifice.

What is fasting and why do we do it?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food, drink, or other comforts for a specific period of time. In the Baptist faith, fasting is seen as a way to deepen one's personal relationship with God by temporarily foregoing physical sustenance to focus on prayer, scripture reading, and reflection. The act of fasting is used as a means to humble oneself before God, seek spiritual renewal, and enhance attentiveness to God's voice.

What does the Bible say about fasting?

Fasting is mentioned numerous times in the Bible as a practice used by many key figures, including Jesus, Moses, and David. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus provides instructions on how to fast in a manner that pleases God, emphasizing the importance of not making a public display of one's fasting but doing it quietly and humbly before God.

What if I cannot fast?

Fasting is encouraged but not compulsory. If health issues or other serious reasons prevent you from fasting, you can still participate fully in prayer and the service.