Liturgical Celebrations of the Paschal Feast

The Significance of Easter

The Christian celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, representing the victory over death and the promise of eternal life. It marks the culmination of Holy Week and the end of Lent.

Liturgical Observations

Ecclesiastical traditions surrounding the annual remembrance of Christ's resurrection are among the most important in the Christian faith.

The Paschal Triduum

The period from Holy Thursday evening to Easter Sunday evening, commemorating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection. It is the highlight of the liturgical year.

• Holy Thursday: Commemorates the Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist.
• Good Friday: Observed as the day of the crucifixion and death of Jesus.
• Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil): A service held after sunset on Holy Saturday, and before sunrise on Easter, considered the most important liturgical service of the year. It includes the Service of Light (the lighting of the Paschal Candle), readings from the Old Testament, the renewal of baptismal vows, and the celebration of the Eucharist.

Easter Sunday Services

The culmination of the Paschal Triduum, marked by special liturgical celebrations. These typically include:

• Liturgical Music: Hymns and musical selections celebrating the Resurrection.
• Scripture Readings: Gospel accounts of the empty tomb and Jesus' appearances.
• Homily/Sermon: A reflection on the meaning of the Resurrection.
• The Eucharist: The central act of worship, celebrating Christ's sacrifice and resurrection.

Variations in Practices

While the core theological meaning of Easter remains consistent across Christian denominations, specific customs and service times can differ significantly based on local church traditions, denominational practices, and community demographics. It is common for individual churches to have multiple services. Information on schedules should be directly obtained from the specific church.