Transfiguration Sunday is a special day (the last Sunday of the Epiphany season and the final Sunday before Lent begins) when we remember that Jesus went to the mountain top. He took with him James and John and Peter and was transfigured before them so he glowed with a brilliant radiance. Moses and Elijah appeared and God spoke, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him." In awe the disciples fell before him -- and with tenderness Jesus raised them up again.

    Transfiguration Sunday is a great Alleluia Sunday, but during Lent (which follows Transfiguration Sunday) we put away our alleluias for a season. And to mark this occasion with a meaningful event for children, at the end of the service the congregation raises a loud and joyous alleluia and then we put all the alleluias into a special Alleluia Box that will stay closed until -- yes, you guessed it -- until Easter when we let the joy of our alleluias explode into a darkened world.