This photograph was taken a few years ago. It was Easter at my family's Episcopal church. Jackson (he was five!) and his cousin, C, are "flowering the cross". I love the tradition of all the families bringing azaleas, camellias, and dogwoods from their yards to decorate the large cross outside the church. Then, when we are all inside, the beautiful hymns of "Jesus Christ is Risen Today!", "Hail Thee, Festival Day", and "Welcome Happy Morning" bring tears to my eyes.
This week I am looking forward to Holy Week: Maundy Thursday's stripping of the alter and foot-washing, and then Good Friday service. The darkness and somberness of those days prepares me for the Happy Morning this photograph conveys.
