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Brilio.net - The Easter Vigil is one of the sacred celebrations in the Christian church, especially the Catholic church, which is celebrated on the night before Easter, precisely on Holy Saturday Night . The word "Vigil" comes from Latin which means "night watch" or "watch night". This celebration has deep meaning for Christians because it is a night filled with hope and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Easter Vigil begins with evening services held in churches, often starting at midnight or early morning. This night is filled with various rituals, Scripture readings, prayers, and songs that imply hope for Christ's resurrection from the dead. During the Easter Vigil, Christians prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with sincere and joyful hearts.
One of the important rituals in the Easter Vigil is the reading of Bible verses which tell the story of God's salvation for mankind, starting from the creation of the world to Christ's victory over death. This reading is not only a reminder of the history of salvation, but also as an introduction for Christians to the peak of the Easter celebration.
In addition to the reading of Scripture, the Easter Vigil also includes the blessing of holy water used for baptism. This holy water symbolizes the cleansing and restoration of the soul through the sacrament of baptism, which links Christians to the death and resurrection of Christ. The process of baptism at the Easter Vigil is often a very important moment for people who choose to join the Church.
During the Easter Vigil, churches are often decorated with burning candles, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world who breaks the darkness of sin and death. These candles also represent the presence of the risen Christ in the lives of His people and continue to provide light for those who believe.
The highlight of the Easter Vigil is when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter. With great joy and hope, Christians celebrate Christ's victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life for those who believe. The Easter Vigil is not only a historical celebration, but also an experience of faith that strengthens Christians' belief in the presence of Christ in their lives.
Overall, the Easter Vigil has deep meaning in Christianity because it is a moment that marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the foundation of the Christian faith. This celebration not only celebrates Christ's victory over death, but also invites Christians to strengthen their faith and hope in Christ, and prepare to welcome His return. The Easter Vigil also teaches the importance of loyalty, hope and expectation of God's promises which always come true in the lives of His people.
The Easter Vigil, or Holy Night of Easter, is one of the most important sacred celebrations in Christianity. Summarized by brilio.net from various sources, Thursday (28/3), this is a series of Vigils in the Catholic Church.
1. Preparation
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Before the eve of the Easter Vigil, the church and Christians prepare themselves spiritually. This includes prayer, reflection, and personal consideration to understand the meaning of Christ's resurrection. The church is usually also prepared physically by cleaning and decorating the church with candles, flowers, and other decorations that imply joy over Christ's resurrection.
2. Ritual of lighting the Holy Fire
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The Easter Vigil begins with the ritual of lighting the sacred fire outside the church. The priest or bishop leads this ritual by announcing the presence of Christ as light to a dark world. The sacred fire is then used to light other candles, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world.
3. Easter Mass
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After the lighting of the sacred fire, Christians enter the church in the dark, carrying lighted candles. Easter Mass begins with a procession entering the church full of joy and joy. During Easter Mass, there are special readings from the Bible that highlight the history of salvation and Christ's victory over death.
4. Blessing of Holy Water
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One of the important moments in the Easter Vigil is the blessing of holy water. This holy water is used for the baptism of adults who choose to enter the Catholic Church, as well as as a reminder for Christians of their own baptism. The baptism process is carried out with great majesty and solemnity.
5. Reflection and prayer
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During the Easter Vigil, there is also time for personal reflection, reflection, and prayer. Christians are called to reflect on the meaning of Christ's resurrection in their own lives, and pray for God's blessings and help in living their daily lives.
6. Holy CommunionAs part of the Easter Mass, Christians receive Holy Communion, namely the bread and wine believed to be the body and blood of Christ. This is a sacred moment in which Christians commune spiritually with Christ, reminding them of His great love and His sacrifice that brought salvation to humanity.
7. Opportunity to Share HappinessAfter Easter Mass is over, Christians often gather to celebrate and share their joy at Christ's resurrection. This could be a meal together, a social gathering, or another activity that strengthens bonds between fellow Christians.
(brl/lea)
