The Easter Vigil is the worship service held on the evening before Easter Sunday, beginning in darkness and anticipating Christ’s resurrection. In many Western churches, it includes Scripture readings, prayers, the lighting of the paschal candle, baptism, and the Eucharist or Holy Communion.
When is the Easter Vigil held?
The Easter Vigil takes place on Holy Saturday, even though its name points to the following Sunday. Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Episcopal, and many other Western Christian congregations begin it around sunset or later on Saturday, and it may continue late into the evening. Some also hold a separate Easter Sunday gathering, often at sunrise. That Sunday gathering is not the vigil; it is commonly called a sunrise service.
Where does the name come from?
The word vigil originally meant a watch or keeping awake. A vigil is an evening service held in anticipation of a major feast, and this Christian observance developed from evening prayer and preparation for Easter baptism. In a typical service, a new paschal candle is lit and honored in the darkened sanctuary. Its light represents Christ as the Light of the World. In churches that use one, the candle remains through the Easter season and is lit again for baptisms and funerals.
What happens during the service?
The service of light opens in darkness while the paschal candle is processed. The Easter Proclamation is sung, followed by prayers for the church, the world, and those being baptized. The Vigil continues with the singing of the Paschal Canticle, the reading of the Gospel, the blessing of the baptismal waters, and the renewal of baptismal vows. When baptism takes place, the newly baptized are welcomed. The service concludes with the Eucharist and a final blessing.
How do different churches observe it?
In Roman Catholic churches, the Easter Vigil is a Mass that includes the Liturgy of the Word, the baptism of those who have been prepared for it, and the Eucharist; a congregation may also provide another Mass on Easter Sunday. Lutheran, Episcopal, and Anglican churches commonly keep a vigil with readings, prayers, a paschal candle, and Communion. Many Protestant churches without a formal liturgical order center Easter worship on Sunday morning, though some hold a similar evening service. Eastern Orthodox churches commonly speak of the Paschal Divine Liturgy on Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday, with a paschal candle and the Paschal Canon.
What should I expect as a first-time visitor?
Arrive 15 to 30 minutes early, since some congregations close their doors when the service begins. The sanctuary may be dim at first, and the service can include candles, incense, standing, kneeling, processions, and sung or spoken prayers. Visitors may join in prayers and hymns, but participation is not required. Asking about the service and reviewing Easter traditions by denomination can help you know what to expect.