HOMILY FOR HOLY SATURDAY (EASTER VIGIL)
THEME: THE RESURRECTION NIGHT
BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor
HOMILY FOR SATURDAY APRIL 16 2022
Mass is not celebrated this morning. The church waits in prayer and fasting at the Lord’s tomb. By a most ancient tradition, this night is spent keeping Vigil for the Lord. Tonight, the faithful carry lighted candles in their hands in accordance with the words of scripture in Luke 12:35-37; they look for the Lord, so that at his coming, he may find them awake.
The first part of tonight’s celebration is the Lucernarium and Easter Proclamation. A great fire is kindled outside the Church. Then it is blessed, while the Paschal candle and the candles of the faithful are lighted from it. The Church then meditates on the word of God (the second part). Then new members are reborn in baptism (if any). This is the third part of tonight’s celebration. The Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist (fourth part) follows, as the faithful join the Lord in his table to recall his death and resurrection till he comes again.
The mass of the Vigil even if it is celebrated before midnight is a Paschal Mass of the Sunday of the resurrection. One may participate and receive communion at both the Vigil, as well as the mass during the day (Cf. Universalis).
Good morning dear. Have a great day ahead. And… try to go to confession today if you haven’t.