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Saturday, April 07, 2012

The Easter Vigil: Christ is Risen!


The Easter Fire and the Paschal Candle





Proclamation of the Light of Christ


Renewal of Baptismal Vows

Tonight we gathered outside the tomb for the principal service of the church's year - the Easter Liturgy. The Easter candle was lit from the new fire and brought into the darkened church as Christ brings light to the world. The light was passed from this single flame to every member of the assembly, as the Exsultet, the ancient hymn of praise to the Easter light, was sung. By candlelight we listened to the story of the world from creation to the time of Christ culminating in the proclamation of his resurrection. We journeyed to the font to renew the promises made at our baptisms, and then to the table of the eucharist to proclaim and share his victory over death.