The Great Vigil of Easter

Join us in-person and ONLINE  for The Great Vigil of Easter, Saturday, April 19 at 8:00 pm. The Great Vigil of Easter concludes the Triduum and is the principle liturgy of the entire liturgical year. The service begins in darkness where we kindle the 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.

The Great Vigil of Easter is the most significant and ancient liturgy of the Christian Church, marking the beginning of the Easter celebration. It takes place between sunset on Holy Saturday and sunrise on Easter morning. This service is the first official celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

There will be a champagne and chocolate reception following the service.

The Great Vigil of Easter consists of four parts:

1. The Service of Light : The liturgy begins in darkness, symbolizing the darkness of the tomb. A new fire is kindled, and from this fire, the Paschal Candle is lit, representing the light of Christ coming into the world. The congregation then processes into the church, following the light of the Paschal Candle.
2. The Service of Lessons : This part includes readings from the Old Testament that recount the history of salvation, highlighting God’s mighty acts and promises. Each reading is followed by a psalm or canticle and a collect.
3. Christian Initiation or the Renewal of Baptismal Vows : Traditionally, the Great Vigil was a time for baptizing new Christians. If there are candidates for baptism, the sacrament is administered. If not, the congregation renews their baptismal vows, reaffirming their commitment to the Christian faith.
4. The Holy Eucharist : The service culminates with the first Eucharist of Easter, celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus. The joyful proclamation “Alleluia. Christ is risen” is made, and the congregation responds, “The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.”

The Great Vigil of Easter is a profound and moving liturgy that invites participants to enter deeply into the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection. (Source: Walk in Love: Episcopal Beliefs & Practices, The Book of Common Prayer)