The Great Vigil of Easter

The Great Vigil of Easter, a traditional worship service of Christian churches, concludes the Triduum (Three days) and serves as the onset of the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Historically, it is during this service that those preparing for Baptism or Church membership are received into full communion within the Church. The Great Vigil is held in the hours of darkness between Holy Saturday and sunrise on Easter Sunday.

Among liturgical western churches, including the Lutheran Church, Anglican and Roman Catholics, the Easter Vigil is the most important service of public worship of the liturgical year. The liturgy of the Easter Vigil recounts the salvation history of God’s people from the creation of the heavens and earth, through the manifestation of God’s long-awaited Messiah. The celebration is marked by the first use of the “Alleluia” since the beginning of Lent.

This year, the congregations of St. Jacob’s and New Hope Lutheran Churches will begin the tradition of keeping Easter Vigil together. Join us at St. Jacob’s on April 20th, Holy Saturday, at 7 PM for this most holy and elaborate service of the year.