Easter vigil meaning (what it is, concept and definition)

What is Easter Vigil:

The Easter Vigil is a very important and special liturgical commemoration with which the resurrection of Jesus is celebrated. The Easter Vigil marks the end of the Easter Triduum.

The Easter Vigil is held on the night of Holy Saturday on the eve of Easter or Easter Sunday.

It is a time when Christians rejoice in happiness at the resurrection of Jesus, in all Christian churches a similar ritual is performed using the symbols of light, water, the word and the Eucharist.

In the past, there was a tradition of baptizing at the Easter Vigil all those who had not yet received the sacrament of Baptism, hence, today, candles and water are used as symbols to renew baptismal promises during this commemoration.

The Easter Vigil is held with the celebration of a special liturgy, for which both priests and deacons wear white to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

Parts of the Easter Vigil

The Easter Vigil is held before midnight on Holy Saturday and is made up of several important parts in order to praise Jesus and renew religious values.

Fire blessing

The Vigil begins when the lights of the church are turned off and the priest lights a flame of fire, with which he will light the Paschal Candle, which is blessed and led in procession through the church while it remains in the dark.

The other candles that each person carries are lit from the fire of the paschal candle and others are lit from these. The light of the fire represents the risen Christ.

After the procession, with the candles already lit, the priest sings the Easter Proclamation, an old Easter hymn.

Liturgy of the Word

Once the fire is blessed, the Liturgy of the Word begins, in which seven Old Testament accounts of God's salvation are read. Psalms are also read from the New Testament and various songs performed by a choir or singer.

Baptismal Liturgy

Baptismal Liturgy is characterized by dealing with the themes of resurrection and baptism, as complementary terms. During this Liturgy, water is blessed and baptismal commitments and promises are renewed.

Liturgy of the Eucharist

It is a much more special Eucharist than those performed on a daily basis in which songs of joy and praise are sung. Finally, parishioners receive the blessing.

See also:

• Holy WeekEasterHoly Saturday