"Tenebrae" is the Latin word meaning "darkness." The service of Tenebrae as practiced in most Churches is an adaptation of medieval Roman Catholic practices for each of the days of Holy Week dating back to the ninth century. This Service can take place any day of Holy Week or sometime on Good Friday.
Throughout the service, the passion narrative is read, accompanied by song and silence.  Candlelight plays an important role in the ambiance of the Church setting.  By the end of the service, all candles have been extinguished and the church if filled with a sense of darkness.
Worshipers leave in silence to ponder the impact of Christ's death and await the celebration of the coming Resurrection.