Udupi/M’Belle, 20 Apr: Large number of faithful participated in Easter Vigil heralding the resurrection of Jesus Christ in various churches in preparation for the solemn feast mass proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Saturday, 20 April 2019.
The Easter Vigil Service in St. Lawrence Church, Moodubelle commenced at 7pm in front of the church where the new fire was kept burning. As the parishioners gathered in front of the church, Fr. Roman Mascarenahs-Rector of Diocesan Minor Seminary as the chief celebrant along with Fr. Clement Mascarenhas-Parish Priest, Fr. Lawrence Cutinha-Assistant Parish Priest, Fr. Frolic (OFM Cap) and Fr. Raymond (OFM Cap), blessed the new fire and lighted the Pascal Candle after a brief prayer service.
The lighted Pascal Candle was carried into the church by Fr. Lawrence Cutinha proclaiming ‘The Light of Christ’. As the lighted Pascal Candle proceeded inside the church up to the main altar, faithful lighted their individual candles from the Pascal Candle. Fr. Lawrence placed the Pascal Candle on the stand.
Fr. Clement Mascarenhas incensed the Pascal Candle and recited the Exultant.
Next, four passages from the Old Testament were read by the members of the liturgical committee, followed by responsorial psalms sung by the members of the choir and prayer recited by the chief celebrant.
The Gloria was sung to the peeling of the church bell and proclaiming the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Fr. Roman Mascarenhas meanwhile unveiled the statue of the Risen Christ.
In his homily, Fr. Roman Mascarenhas highlighted the significance of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ in the lives of people.
Soon after the homily, the water was blessed by immersing the Pascal Candle in the huge vessel containing the water. Thereafter, Baptismal Vows were renewed and newly blessed Holy Water was sprinkled on the congregation.
Thereafter, the feast mass continued till the last blessing.
Fr. Clement Mascarenahs conveyed the greetings of Easter to all parishioners in native palce as well as abroad.