A Home Celebration of The Great Vigil of Easter

This year, St. Matthew’s will not be offering the Great Vigil of Easter service.  In light of this decision, we are encouraging individuals and families to consider alternative ways to observe this sacred occasion. One option is to celebrate The Great Vigil of Easter at home, fostering a sense of spiritual connection and renewal within the comfort of one's own household. Additionally, parishioners are welcome to explore the possibility of attending the observance of The Great Vigil of Easter at another congregation within our community. This not only provides an opportunity to participate in the shared celebration of our faith but also strengthens the bonds of fellowship and unity among different congregations. Below, you will find a brief history of the Vigil and suggestions for a home observance.

History of the Vigil
The Great Vigil of Easter is a centuries-old liturgical tradition within the Christian faith, celebrated on the eve of Easter Sunday. Its origins trace back to the early church, where new converts were baptized into the faith during this vigil, symbolizing their rebirth and entrance into the Christian community. The vigil typically begins in darkness, symbolizing the despair of Good Friday, and progresses through a series of readings and rituals that recount salvation history, from creation to redemption. As the vigil progresses, the darkness is gradually dispelled by the light of the Paschal candle, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ and the victory of light over darkness. The Great Vigil of Easter is a deeply symbolic and spiritually rich liturgy, marking the culmination of the Lenten season and the joyous beginning of the Easter celebration.

Below are some suggestions for observing The Great Vigil of Easter in a home setting:

Start in Darkness
Begin the vigil in darkness to symbolize the despair of Good Friday. Turn off all lights and gather around a central area.

Light the Paschal Candle
Light a candle that represents the Pascal Candle, as a symbol of Christ's resurrection. You can use a large candle, or a special candle you and your family design for this purpose.  Google Paschal Candle images to get ideas.

Read Scripture
The BCP on pages 288-291 outlines the readings that recount salvation history, starting from the creation story in Genesis and progressing through key Old Testament prophecies and passages about the resurrection of Jesus.  Select some of these stories to share.  If you have children, it might be fun to read these from a children’s bible.

Renew Baptismal Vows
Renew your own baptismal vows as a reminder of your own baptism and commitment to live as a follower of Christ. You can use prayers and responses in the BCP on page 292-293 as a guide.

Sing Hymns
Sing Easter hymns and songs that celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Examples:  Jesus Christ is Risen Today or He is risen! – both can be online by Google the hymn name. 

Share a Meal
Conclude the vigil with a festive meal shared with your family or household. This can be a time of fellowship and celebration, commemorating the joy of Easter.

By observing these rituals and practices, you can create a meaningful and memorable Great Vigil of Easter celebration in your own home, fostering a sense of spiritual connection and renewal during this holy season.

Pax,
Dr. Jason