The Easter Vigil, considered the most important Mass of the liturgical calendar in the Church, began shortly before midnight in all parishes on the diocese, with Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao presiding over the services at the Se Cathedral in Old Goa.
The key parts of the midnight service included the enkindling of the Easter fire and the lighting of the Paschal candle to signify that Christ is the ‘light and life’ and the various readings of the Holy Bible.
The services also consisted of the blessing of the water of the baptismal font and renewal of baptismal vows by the Christians faithful. In many parishes, newborns were baptised during the Mass.
During the midnight service, the priests reminded the packed congregations that the Christian Church celebrates the solemn Easter Vigil, at which is announced Christ’s resurrection and his victory over death.
Easter also marked the end of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline in preparation for Easter.
After the Easter Vigil services, the Christian community exchanged greetings and many others continued the celebrations late into the night by participating in musical programmes.
