Mulberry Christian Methodist Episcopal (C.M.E.) Church will host its seventh annual ecumenical service for the community on Good Friday (March 21), beginning at 7 p.m.

During the service, various laymen and members of the clergy from Lincolnton as well as the Augusta area will deliver brief messages using the seven last words of Jesus as the Scripture text.

Those taking part in the service include:

First Word: "And Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.'" Luke 23:34a - Minister Kathy Jones.

Second Word: "And he said to him (one of the two thieves), 'Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.'" Luke 23:43 - Rev. Casetta Heard.

Third Word: "When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple (John) whom he loved, standing near, he said to his mother, 'Woman, behold, your son!' Then he said to the disciple, 'Behold, your mother!'" John 19:26-27a - Rev. David Jenkins.

Fourth Word: "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" Matthew 27:46b - Travis Reid.

Fifth Word: "After this Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), 'I thirst.'" John 19:28 - Rev. Howard Herman.

Sixth Word: "When Jesus had received the vinegar, he said, 'It is finished.'" John 19:30a - Waymon Huntley.

Seventh Word: "Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, 'Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit.'" Luke 23:46a - Rev. Larry Fryer.

In addition to the speakers, the service will also feature special music and congregational singing.

Residents of Lincoln County and the surrounding area are encouraged to participate in this evening of powerful preaching and heart-warming music to prepare their hearts for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday.

Refreshments will be served following the program.

Mulberry C.M.E. Church's observance of Holy Week will culminate on Easter with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and the morning worship service at 10:30 a.m.

The church is located at 5129 Double Branches Road. Rev. Larry Fryer is the pastor.

For more information about the ecumenical service, contact Carrie Parker at 706-359-3004, Travis Reid at 706-359-3967, or Leverta Elam at 706-359-4462.