Wikpedia: Tenebrae (Latin for darkness) is a religious service celebrated by high church elements of Western Christianity. Lighting is gradually reduced throughout the service, initially being fully lit by candles, extinguishing and reduction of light occurring throughout, and eventually ending in total darkness (thus the name of the service). A "great noise" is included as part of the service that represents the earthquake at the crucifixion. The service is not considered to have finished until after everyone has left the place of worship In total silence.
The rites associated with Tenebrae may be derived from customs that are connected to the Jewish fast day of Tisha B'Av (the Ninth Day of Av.) On this day, the book of Lamentations is read, the synagogue is darkened and decorative elements are removed.
Tonight's service was really nice. I love the monastic feel to it. The Psalms and lessons from Lamentations are always moving. With the extinguishing of light and the tone of the bell and the gong, it appeals to many senses. Silence and darkness are very powerful.
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