Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, on this most holy night, when our Lord Jesus Christ passed from death to life, the Church invites her children throughout the world to come together.
This is the Passover of the Lord. We remember his death and resurrection by hearing his word and celebrating his mysteries, confident that we shall share his victory over death and live with him forever in God.
A new fire is kindled
Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation,
to you be glory and praise for ever.
Your steadfast love extends to the heavens
and your faithfulness never ceases.
Illuminate our hearts with your wisdom
and strengthen our lives with your word,
for you are the fountain of life;
in your light we see true light.
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Blessed be God for ever.
The Easter Candle is marked here.
Christ yesterday and today,
the beginning and the end,
Alpha and Omega,
all time belongs to him,
and all ages;
to him be glory and power,
through every age and for ever.
Amen.
Nails or incense studs may be inserted into the Easter Candle.
By his holy and glorious wounds
may Christ our Lord guard and keep us.
Amen.
The president lights the Easter Candle, saying
May the light of Christ, rising in glory,
banish all darkness from our hearts and minds.
The light of Christ.
Thanks be to God.