The ambience in the church on Easter Eve is different. It feels special. Like everyone is awaiting with bated breaths. The atmosphere is also different. The lights are out, the holy water fonts drained, and the tabernacle is empty.
It is time for the culmination of the Holy Triduum, when the Catholic community gathers together to remember, celebrate and believe the dying and rising of Jesus Christ“ the paschal mystery in which we share through the sacrament of Baptism and the Holy Eucharist.
Called the Easter Vigil, this is also a night to celebrate our own redemption. Supposed to happen after nightfall, but before day break, the early Church celebrated the Easter Vigil from sunset on Saturday until dawn on Easter Sunday. The ceremony, however, has now been shortened to last approximately two-three hours and is divided into four basic parts“ Service of Light, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of Baptism, and Liturgy of the Eucharist.
During the Service of Light, a fire is blessed and the Paschal Candle is lit from this new fire. It is a sign of Christ, the Light of the World, who has overcome the darkness of sin and death. Then, the congregation lights smaller candles from the flame of the Paschal Candle. The flame is passed from person to person until everyone is holding a lit candle. This part concludes with the singing of the Easter proclamation.
The Liturgy of the Word is then proclaimed in nine readings, seven from the Old Testament and two from the New Testament. Not all are required to be read due to time constraints, but at least three Old Testament readings must be read, including Exodus 14.
Then follows the Liturgy of Baptism which is central to the Easter Vigil. New entrants are welcomed into the church and baptised as the entire congregation renews their baptismal promises.
The Easter Vigil concludes with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, a joyous sharing in the sacrificial meal of Jesus Christ as everyone disperses to share in their joy.
