Recast: Easter Vigil and Easter Traditions

On Mission

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In this episode of On Mission, Chris Pierno, Kate Fowler, and Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. are joined by Fr. Jim Sabak, O.F.M., Director of Worship for the Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina, to discuss the Easter Vigil Liturgy, the Vigil's symbolism, and Easter traditions.

The rubrics of the Missale Romanum remind us that this "mother of all vigils" is the "greatest and most noble of all solemnities and it is to be unique in every single Church" ( Missale Romanum, "Rubrics for the Easter Vigil" (EV), no.2). On this holy night, the Church keeps watch, celebrating the resurrection of Christ in the sacraments and awaiting his return in glory. It is the turning point of the Triduum, the Passover of the new covenant, which marks Christ's passage from death to life. Therefore, the Easter Vigil does not correspond to the usual Saturday evening Mass and its character is unique in the cycle of the liturgical year.

The Vigil, by its very nature, "ought to take place at night" (EV, no. 3). It is not begun before nightfall 1 and should end before daybreak on Easter Sunday. The celebration of the Easter Vigil takes the place of the Office of Readings (EV, no. 5).

The role of the deacon assisting the priest is highlighted in the new Missale, although it is noted that in his absence his duties may be exercised by the priest celebrant himself or by a concelebrant (EV, no. 6).

For more resources about Easter, please visit the Lent and Easter Resource page.

Click here to learn more about Fr. Jim Sabak's book, Vigilemus et Oremus.

Read blog posts about the Easter Vigil and the Easter Season

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