The Great Vigil of Easter
2023-04-08
The Great Vigil of Easter is the culmination of the sacred celebration of Holy Week and the beginning of the celebration of the Lord’s Resurrection. It begins in darkness and proceeds to a joyous burst of light. It begins in silence and proceeds to the glorious proclamation of the Paschal Alleluia! It is the Christian Passover, for it celebrates the passing from death to life, from sin to grace. The Paschal Candle is lit, symbolizing Jesus Risen from the dead. The Old Testament lessons are read as we trace our salvation by God. We renew our Baptismal Promise since it is through Baptism we share in the death and resurrection of Christ.