Recalling Christianity’s roots in Judaism, a holiday begins at sundown. So the true celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord occurs at sundown Saturday. The Great Vigil of Easter begins with the lighting of the Paschal Candle outside the church building and a procession into the darkened nave, with all attendees carrying a lighted taper. Old Testament readings and prayers follow; there is no organ music although there is chanted plainsong during the first part of the service.

And then….

The nave lights come up to the ringing of bells and cries of Alleluia! as the glory of the Resurrection is revealed in an overflowing display of lilies and daffodils surrounding the altar and the festival paraments! The organ, largely silent during the previous days, invites us to sing Easter hymns as we enter the Easter season.