Easter Vigil 2008

This is the first time we have done the full form of the Easter Vigil at St. Paul's according to the 1967 Scottish Episcopal Holy Week rite. A few things went wrong and, of course, we were understaffed, but there was tremendous positive feedback from the congregation.

Blessing the Fire

After the kindling of the new fire, Fr. Peter reads the opening prayer and blesses the fire.

Inscribing the Date of the Paschal Candle

The Paschal candle is inscribed with the Greek letters alpha and omega and the year before being blessed. The candle is then taken into the church in procession and installed in its holder in the sanctuary while the prophecies are read.

Blessing of the Font

Somehow I ended up in a white cope for this part of the service - I think it should have been violet. Anyway, the font is being blessed, and in a moment the priest will dip the Paschal Candle into the water three times. The Litany follows, then the renewal of Baptismal Vows will be made; Holy Water scattered over the congregation; and then the first Eucharist of Easter will begin.

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