Easter Vigil.  On this greatest of nights, the Church witnesses the resurrection of her spouse and savior, Jesus Christ.  In the celebration of the sacraments of initiation, the blessing of the Easter Fire, Candle and Water, renewal of baptismal promises, the recalling of Salvation History, and the joyful reception of the Eucharistic King within our hearts and souls, Jesus lives who once was dead.

Blessing of the Easter Candle.  The Easter Candle is blessed and lit from the new fire.  This candle represents the Light of Christ in our lives.  It comes into a darkened church to represent Christ coming into the world of darkness and sin and bringing His light to the world and to our soul.  The light is passed from the Priest to the Deacon to the congregation recognizing that once we receive the Light of Christ in our lives we must pass it on to others.  The Christ (Easter) Candle is lit for all baptisms and funeral Masses.

The Recalling of Salvation History.  The readings lead us through Salvation History, recalling that God had and has a plan to save us from the time of the fall of Adam and Eve, to the time we stand before Him at the end of time.

Blessing of the Water and Renewal of our Baptismal  Promises.  In the blessed waters of the Easter font, we witness the life-giving power of the Crucified and Risen King, from whose side flows the water of salvation and the Font of Baptism is opened.  We recall and recommit ourselves to our Baptismal Promises to live as the Children of God.