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HOLY SATURDAY     April 4th

Following a somber day, where we are invited to notice the absence of Christ, we gather in the evening for the Great Vigil. 

The Great Vigil is the first liturgy of Easter Day. It is celebrated between sunset on Holy Saturday and sunrise on Easter Morning. It is appropriate that the service begins in darkness. The liturgy has several parts:

  • The Service of Light- a new fire is kindled, and from it the Paschal Candle is lit, symbolizing Christ, the light of the world. The Exsultet, an ancient song of praise, is sung or said as the climax of this part of the liturgy. 
  • The Service of Lessons- key passages from Scripture recount the history of God’s mighty acts and promises. These readings are accompanied by psalms, canticles, and prayers. 
  • Holy Baptism is the Sacrament through which candidates are united to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:3-4), which the Church celebrates on this most holy night.  

7:00 pm – The Great Vigil of Easter

  • We will begin in quiet and darkness. There will be a series of Scripture readings and lots of time for prayer and reflection as we await the Easter acclamation. 
  • Bring an instrument to join in the celebration. We will have instruments ready in the foyer at the appropriate time! We will tell you and the kids when to go and get them to get ready to celebrate with “joyful fanfare!”
  • We are excited to be celebrating several baptisms at this service.

After the Vigil – Ice-Cream Celebration

  • We will celebrate the newly baptized and the beginning of the Easter season with an ice-cream buffet!  Ice cream and toppings will be provided.