Illuminated by the glow of the Paschal candle, Bishop Richard Reidy commenced The Liturgy of Light (Lucernarium) to start the Easter Vigil at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick on Holy Saturday, April 4th. 

"Sanctify this fire, we pray, and grant that, by these Paschal celebrations, we may be so inflamed with Heavenly desires, that with minds made pure, we may attain festivities of unending splendor through Christ, Our Lord," the bishop intoned before blessing the Paschal candle. 

Father Brian Romanowski then carried the lighted candle down the main aisle into the dimly-lit cathedral, pausing three times to sing “The Light of Christ” with the congregation responding, “Praise Be to God.”

The flame from the Paschal candle was passed on to smaller white candles held by parishioners, enveloping the entire church in a warm glow. Upon the Easter candle's arrival in the sanctuary, Father Peter Langevin chanted the Easter Proclamation, also known as the "Exsultet" in Latin, signifying a time of rejoicing.

This proclamation eloquently conveys the Easter mystery, emphasizing Jesus’ death and resurrection for humanity’s redemption. After readings from Genesis, Exodus and Ezekiel during the Liturgy of the Word, Bishop Reidy proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest,” prompting the cathedral bells and organ, silent since Holy Thursday, to resound once more in a jubilant celebration.

Father Romanowski read from the Gospel of Saint Matthew of the angel's appearance to the women at Jesus' empty tomb after the Sabbath. 

"Do not be afraid, I know that you are seeking Jesus, the crucified," the angel told them. "He is not here, for He has been raised, just as He said."

Bishop Reidy said in his homily that the risen Jesus' words to His disciples in Galilee, "Be not afraid," are for us as well this Easter. 

"He has shown us that good does triumph over evil," the bishop said. "Forgiveness over sin, life over death." 

During the Easter Vigil, nine individuals received the Sacrament of Baptism, and five were received into full Communion with the Catholic Church. Fourteen received Holy Communion for the first time, and 21 received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Parishioners also renewed their own Baptismal promises during the Mass.

See Easter Sunday Mass and Holy Week Masses Below:

Good Friday

Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord's Supper