Easter Vigil - April 11

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Genesis 1:1-2:2,26-31 Genesis 22:1-18 Exodus 14:15-15:1 Isaiah 54:5-14
Isaiah 55:1-11 Baruch 3:9-15,32-4:4 Ezekiel 36:16-28 Romans 6:3-11 Luke 24:1-12

The Easter Vigil is a serenade of sensory images, a heartfelt dance of prayer and movement, beginning with the warm crackling sounds of the Easter Fire in the Service of Light. Then comes the symbolic processional action-- from the darkness of death to the light of Christ’s love. The Body of Christ throughout the nave is illuminated in a wave of golden glowing lit tapers, a symbol of the new life of the resurrection.

The beautiful liturgical rituals throughout the year build up to this night of all nights. This holy night we share in our story of salvation told through the nine scriptures readings, allowing us to become part of our past. Our senses are embraced in the ritual used to display our Christian history of new life.

I am swept away in the loveliness of this service. Proclaiming our story from creation, sacrificial love, obedience, slavery and deliverance, compassionate covenant, God’s holiness, and a never-ending reminder that we are the people of God and that God shines in us. This night we are blessed with those becoming Catholic. The stories of our past are similar to those of today. Over and over our God renews us, giving us opportunities of growth among tragedy and obstacles in this crazy life we live.

Poetic psalms balance the readings as a call and response, a reminder to me that our voices are necessary. Matthew narrates Jesus’ resurrection with an earthquake, illuminating light, and an angel addressing Mary Magdalene and Mary to not be afraid. Suddenly, without warning, Jesus greets them both with, “Peace.” I ponder, how ready am I to greet Jesus? Am I kind and thoughtful? Do I recognize the Christ in others?

Our stories also resonate in the heart of our continued salvation history. We are the author of our souls, the only ones who can allow Christ’s peace, love, and compassion to penetrate our lives.

Q: How can I open the doors of my heart to our loving God? What ways can I allow God to shine in, with, and through me? Where do I need to be greeted with, “Peace”?

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