Day #3 of the Triduum - silence - laying in the tomb - waiting - nothing to do until - the Vigil. In many churches the morning is used to decorate for Easter Sunday - the Vigil Mass that will be celebrated after dark. Masses typically not celebrated until after dusk. Free time in the morning used to bless parishioner's Easter food baskets - review with the catechumens the liturgy - flow of the evening Vigil Mass. For the catechumens - anxiety - final blessings - preparing for Baptism - Reception into the Church - Confirmation - Holy Eucharist.
Lighting the Paschal Candle
This evening everything is new - starting after sundown - blessing of the new Paschal candle - blessing of a new fire that will light the new candle - singing the Exultant - the official chant as Holy Mass begins - the large number of Scriptures tonight - the blessing of the font - water for baptism - renewal of baptismal vows - after the homily - baptism - confirmation - Eucharist. A night of beginnings for the Church - Catechumens - parishioners. Meanwhile - Jesus in the Tomb - a night of waiting - anticipation - resurrection. Easter morning will reveal all.
Deacon Dale
