Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How is the Easter Vigil observed after sundown on Holy Saturday?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Easter
Resurrection of Christ, oil on wood panel by Raphael, 1499–1502; in the Museu de Arte de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. 52 × 44 cm.
The Easter Vigil, held after sundown on Holy Saturday, is a significant liturgical event celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. While practices vary, the service is characterized by a spirit of joyful anticipation.12
In the Roman Catholic tradition, the vigil typically consists of four parts:
- Service of Light: Focused on the Paschal candle, this symbolizes the appearance of light out of darkness through the Resurrection. Many churches also include the lighting of fires and the tolling of bells to signify joy.12
- Service of Lessons: Often called the prophecies, this involves a series of readings.1
- Sacramental Rites: The administration of baptism and confirmation to adult converts. The priest also blesses the water to be used for baptisms in the coming year.12
- Easter Mass: The concluding celebration of the Eucharist.13
Eastern Orthodox churches maintain the vigil as a central ceremony, and some Anglican and Lutheran churches utilize variations of this service. A feast often follows the vigil to welcome new converts and celebrate the occasion.12