The Great Vigil of Easter
Saturday, April 8, 2023, 8:00 PM
Join us in-person and onlinefor The Great Vigil of Easter.
The Great Vigil of Easter concludes the Triduum and is the principle liturgy of the entire liturgical year. The service begins as we kindle new fire. A new paschal candle is blessed and lit from the new fire. The paschal candle—representing the Light of Christ—is carried down the aisle in the darkened church. Vigil candles are lit from the new fire and fill the otherwise dark church with warm candlelight. A cantor chants the Exultet (from the Latin word for “rejoice”), a beautifully haunting hymn dating from the fourth century that gives thanks to God for this night on which we are led from darkness into light, from death into life. In the darkness, a series of readings recall the history of salvation: Creation, the Flood, Israel’s Deliverance at the Red Sea, and others.
The Great Vigil is an ideal time for baptisms and the congregation always renews their own baptismal vows. The Asperges (sprinkling) spreads the waters of baptism across the gathered faithful as each person remembers their own baptism. The climax of the liturgy is the first “Alleluia” of the Easter season, when the celebrant declares: “Alleluia! Christ is risen.” The darkened church is suddenly flooded with light, the organ roars, and a Gloria is sung to give thanks to God for the resurrection of our Lord. The service joyfully continues with readings recalling Christ’s victory over death. Finally, bread and wine are blessed and the congregation shares Holy Eucharist with God and one another. The service ends with a dismissal as the Great Vigil concludes the Triduum.
Plan to stay for our chocolate and champagne reception afterward.
