05/04/2026
"He is not here; for He is risen, as He said."
— Matthew 28:6
Because He lives, we have hope and peace.
May the risen Christ bless you with joy, love, and new beginnings.
The Easter Vigil St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church Melton South celebrated after sunset on Holy Saturday, marks the culmination of the Easter Triduum and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
Celebrated in four parts:
1. The Service of Light
The vigil begins in darkness. A new fire is lit, blessed, and used to light the Paschal Candle, representing the light of Christ rising from the dead. The candle is carried into the church, and the Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) is sung.
2. The Liturgy of the Word
The church meditates on the history of salvation through a series of scripture readings from the Old and New Testaments. These readings trace God's work from creation to the resurrection of Christ.
3. The Liturgy of Baptism
This part focuses on rebirth. Water is blessed, and, the Sacrament of Baptism is administered in the candidates. Parishioners renew their own baptismal promises.
4. The Liturgy of the Eucharist
The service culminates in the Eucharist (Holy Communion), which is the first Mass of Easter Sunday. This is described as a joyful celebration of the Resurrection and a foretaste of the heavenly banquet.
Followed by fellowship and celebrations!!
