The Great Easter Vigil - March 30, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

ABOUT THIS SERVICE: THE GREAT VIGIL OF EASTER The Great Vigil of Easter is one of the oldest known rites of the Christian church that has been celebrated since the second century. This service symbolizes the literal and symbolic transformation from darkness to light and is divided into four parts. These include the kindling of a new fire and lighting of the Paschal Candle, the recitation of captivating stories that narrate God's numerous ways of saving and restoring his people, the sacrament of Baptism to welcome new Christians into the church or the renewal of Baptismal vows, and finally, the first Eucharist of Easter, which reunites the people of God with the Body of the risen Christ. After weeks of self-reflection, penance, and preparation, the liturgy welcomes more joyful elements. The Exsultet, a hymn almost as old as the vigil itself, encourages us to celebrate Christ's victory over death and his redemption of the world. The word "alleluia" ("Praise the Lord"), which has been missing from the liturgy for the past 40 days of Lent, is proclaimed with great enthusiasm and will continue to be present in acclamations, hymns, dismissals, and fractions throughout Eastertide. Sources: An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church and Common Worship: Times and Seasons