Bangalore Archdiocese

By Fr Franklin DSouza

Chitradurga, April 18, 2022 : Our Lady of Assumption Church, Hiriyur in the Chitradurga District belonging to the Diocese of Shimoga, celebrated Easter Vigil with devotion.

The service normally consists of four parts:

• The Service of Light. (Lighting fires and candles to symbolize Christ's passing from death to life and tolling bells to signify the joyous end of Lent).
• The Service of the Word of God (Lessons)
• Christian Initiation, or the Renewal of Baptismal Vows.
• The Holy Eucharist with the administration of Easter Communion.

Vigil began on 16th April at 11am with the blessing of the Fire and Paschal Candle; The Paschal candle is the first candle to be lit with a flame from this sacred fire, representing the light of Christ coming into the world. This represents the risen Christ, as a symbol of light (life) dispelling darkness (death). Fr Franklin D'Souza blessed the fire and the candle, then led the procession to the Church.

Fr Nelson D'Souza sang the Exultet. He also preached homily on the meaning and power of resurrection. He said the conviction of the Risen Lord Jesus is necessary for all of us.

Fr Franklin D'Souza led the blessing of the Water and renewal of the baptismal vows. Then the blessed water was sprinkled over the faithful. Then the communion rite took place. A large number of faithful gathered in the Church.

Assumption Youth prepared the scene of the Risen Lord Jesus.

Parish Priest Fr Franklin D'Souza thanked everyone who helped to celebrate this feast meaningfully.