PANJIM
The Catholic community celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ by participating at Easter vigil services in churches, chapels and Catholic institutions across the State on Saturday night.
Considered the most important Mass of the liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church, the Easter Vigil service began shortly before midnight in all parishes on the diocese, with Cardinal Felipe Neri Ferrao presiding over services at the Se Cathedral in Old Goa.
The kindling of the Easter fire, the lighting of the Paschal candle to signify Christ as the 'light and life' and various readings from the Holy Bible were among the key rites of the midnight service.
The blessing of the water of the baptismal font and renewal of baptismal vows by the Catholic faithful were also essential part of the services.
The priests reminded the Catholic faithful during the midnight service that the Catholic church celebrates the solemn Easter Vigil, at which is announced Christ's resurrection and his victory over death.
Easter Masses will also be celebrated on Sunday morning.
Easter marks the end of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance in preparation for Easter.
Easter was also an opportunity for commercial establishments such as coffee shops, ice cream parlours to do brisk business as many remain open past Saturday night to cater to customers who flocked in after attending the Easter Vigil services, while cake shops prepared Easter eggs and other sweetmeats to mark the Christian festival.
