SEMINARY OF ALL SAINTS, UHIELE EKPOMA

MANUAL FOR HOLY WEEK

5th SUNDAY
VEILING OF CROSSES AND STATUES

1. Beginning on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, the practice of covering crosses and images
throughout the church may be observed. Crosses remain covered until the end of the
Celebration of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday, but images remain covered until the
beginning of the Easter Vigil.

2. The Stations of the Cross and stained-glass windows should not be veiled. This optional
practice helps us to have a fast of the eyes as a form of "fasting from beauty" just as we
fast from other senses (food, drink, etc.). It helps us to concentrate on the great
essentials of Christ's work of Redemption and reminds us of the penitential nature of
Lent.

3. The veiling of the cross emphasizes the unveiling and showing of the cross on Good
Friday. The veiling of statues and images is intended to stir up desire for the return of
Christ and symbols of Christ at Easter.

PALM/PASSION SUNDAY
1. On this day the Church recalls the entrance of Christ the Lord into Jerusalem to
accomplish his paschal mystery. Accordingly, the memorial of this entrance of the Lord
takes place at all Masses, by means of the Procession or the Solemn Entrance before the
principal Mass or the simple entrance before the other Masses. The Solemn Entrance,
but not the Procession, may be repeated before other Masses that are usually celebrated
with a large gathering of people.

2. It is desirable that, where neither the Procession nor the Solemn Entrance can take
place, there be a sacred celebration of the Word of God on the messianic entrance and
on the Passion of the Lord, either on Saturday evening or on Sunday at a convenient
time.

IMMEDIATE PREPARATION
Outside the Chapel
1. A small table to serve as altar
2. A table dressed in white cloth, where palms to be blessed are placed
3. A long palm for the chief celebrant
4. A stand dressed in red
5. Holy water sprinkler

Inside the Chapel

1. The Chasuble of the Chief Celebrantis placed on the Credence Table or any suitable
platform on the Sanctury.
2. Two stands placed on either side of the ambo for the proclamation of the Passion
Narrative.

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COMMEMORATION OF THE PASSION OF OUR LORD
Procession:
1. The Chief Celebrant, ministers and the Seminary Community gathers at a designated
place.
2. The faithful hold palm branches in their hands.
3. Wearing the Red vestment, the Chief Celebrant, Priests, Deacons accompanied by
other ministers, approach the place where the people are gathered. Instead of the
Chasuble, the Chief Celebrant may wear a Cope, which he pulls offwhen the
processionreaches the Sanctury, and puts on a Chasuble.
4. The Book of the Gospel is placed on the Altar by the Deacon.
5. Meanwhile, the Antiphon or another appropriate chant is sung.
6. After this, the Chief Celebrant and people sign themselves, while the Chief Celebrant
says: (Inthe name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit).
7. Then Chief Celebrant greets the people in the usual way. A brief address is given in
which the faithful are invited to participate actively and consciously in the celebration
ofthis day, usingthe text in the Roman Missal.
8. After the address, the Chief Celebrant says the prayer of blessings over the palms as
indicated in the RomanMissal with extended hands.
9. The Chief Celebrant then sprinkles the Palmwith the Holy Waterwithout saying
anything.
10. The Thurifer/Incense Bearer approaches the Chief Celebrant, and with the Candle
Bearers andDeaconmake the usual reverence as when they read the Gospel.
11. Then a Deacon or if there is no Deacon, a Priest proclaims in the usual way the
Gospelconcerning the Lord's entrance according to of the four Gospels in the
Roman Missal.
12. A brief homily may be given.
13. Preparations are now made for the procession, with the Thurifer approaching the
Chief Celebrant for Incense.
14. The Deacon hands over the Blessed Palm reserved for the Chief Celebrant to him.
15. The Deacon then says:Let us go forth in peace.
16. All respond:In the name of Christ. Amen.
17. All in procession carry palms.

⮚ Order of Procession
18. Thurifer, Cross Bearer with Candles Bearers, other ministers, Deacon of the Gospel,
Deacon of the alter, Priests, Chief Celebrant and followed by seminarians in an ascending
order according to the various classes and our worshipping [Link] Cross is to be
decorated withPalm and veiled with Red.
19. As the procession moves forward, a suitable chant in honour of Christ the King is
sung by the choir and the people.

⮚ The Chapel
20. On arriving at the sanctuary, the Chief celebrant hands his Palm to a minister who will
take it to credence table.
21. When the Chief celebrant, arrives at the altar, he venerates and incenses it. Then he goes
to the chair, where he puts aside the cope and put on the chasuble.
22. Omitting the other introductory Rites of the mass and if appropriate, the Kyrie
eleison (Lord have mercy), he says the collect of the Mass and continues the Mass in the
usual way.
23. Then the Liturgy of the word

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Readings at Mass:
✔ Gospel reading before the procession (Matthew 21:1-11)
The following readings are read during the Mass
✔ 1st Reading: Isaiah 50:4-7 (I hid not my face from shame, and I know I shall not be
shame. Third song of the servant)
✔ Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22:8-8.17-18.19-20.23-24 (R. 2) (My God, My God,
Why have you forsaken me?)
✔ 2nd Reading: Phil 2:6-11 (He humbled himself, and God has highly exalted him)
✔ Gospel Acclamation: Phil 2:8-9 (Christ became obedient for us unto death, even
death on a cross. Therefore, God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the
name which is above every name).
✔ Gospel: Matthew 26:14-27:66 (Passion Narrative).
24. The Passion Narrative is read without candles and without incense, with no greetings
or signing of the book. The stands and the pulpit are used for passion narrative.
25. The Passion narrative is read by the Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, by a Priest. It
may also be read by readers, with the part of Christ, if possible reserved to a Deacon/Priest.
26. Deacons, but no other ask for the blessing from the chief celebrant before singing (The
passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to…) as at other times before the Gospel. The
greetings and signing before the Gospel are omitted.
27. After the verse recounting the death of our Lord, all Kneel in silence and pause for a
moment. The readers kneel facing the people.
28. The Gospel of the Lord is sung or said but the book is not kissed.
29. After the passion narrative, the Chief celebrant will give a short homily.
30. After the homily, as circumstances suggest there may be an interval of silence.
31. The Creed is said and the Prayer of the faithful takes place.
32. The Mass then continues in the usual way. (Cf. Roman Missal and Ceremonial of
Bishops Nos. 263-273)

HOLY THURSDAY: CHRISM MASS

Liturgical Colour: White
The oils of the sick and catechumens are blessed, while the chrism is consecrated (CB 275)
The blessing of the oil of the sick takes place before the end of the Eucharistic prayer, the
blessing of the oil of catechumen and consecration of the Chrism after the communion. But
for pastoral reasons the entire rite of blessing may take place after the liturgy of the word (CB
277)
THE RITE
1. The mass begins in the usual way, Gloria is sung, preface of priesthood is used
2. After the Homily, the priests stand before the Bishop, he addresses them and renew their
vows
3. After this comes the prayers of the faithful, the bishop puts aside his mitre and andcruzier
(creed is omitted)
4. Then the Bishop sit, while the deacons will bring the oils with the faithful who are to
bring the bread and wine. They go in procession to the vesting room (CB282)
5. Order of carrying the oil: the oils of catechumens first, the oil of the sick, and then oil of
the chrism. The balsam may come first before the oils (C 282) the procession should not
pass through the short route but be seen through the cathedral, the deacons who carry the
oils make no reverence upon reaching the altar because they bear the oils.
6. Those who carry the bread, wine and water follow those who carry the oils.
7. The bishop receives the oils at his chair or a convenient place.

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8. Each deacon comes and announces the oil he is carrying.
9. The mass then continues as usual except the entire blessing takes place immediately.
10. Before the bishop says (through Christ our Lord in doxology, the one who carries the oil
of the sick, brings it and holds it in front of the bishop, who blesses it saying God of all
consolation. After the blessing, it is returned and Mass continues.
11. After the prayer after communion, the deacons place the oil of catechumens and chrism in
the centre of the sanctuary. The bishop and the concelebrants go to the table with the
Deacons and ministers. The priests stand in a semicircle, the deacons and ministers stand
behind the bishop.
12. Without his mitre, he prays over the oil of catechumens
13. With the Mitre, seating he mixes balsam with the Chrism. Then without the Mitre, he
stands and says let us pray that God…. He may breathe over the vessel of chrism (CB
290). At the words: and so, father …. Until the end of the prayer, all concelebrants hold
the right hand outstretched towards the Chrism, without saying anything.
14. At the end of the Mass, the oils are carried in procession immediately after the cross (CB
293).
THINGS NEEDED
1. A long metal spoon
2. Tables for the oils, covered with a fine cloth, set at the side of the sanctuary and three
large vessels filled with oil.

THE SACRED PASCHAL TRIDUUM

1. Christ redeemed us all and gave perfect glory to God principally through his paschal
mystery: dying he destroyed our death and rising he restored our life. therefore, the
sacred paschal Triduum of the passion and resurrection of Christ is the culmination
of the entire liturgical year.
2. Thus, the solemnity of Easter has the same kind of preeminence in the liturgical year
that Sunday has in the week
3. The paschal Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, reaches it
high point in the Easter Vigil and closes with evening prayer on Easter Sunday
4. On Good Friday and, if possible, also on Holy Saturday until the Easter Vigil, the
Easter fast is observed everywhere.
5. The Easter vigil during the holy night when Christ rose from the dead, ranks as the
“the mother of all vigils.” Keeping watch, the Church awaits Christ’s resurrection
and celebrates it in the sacraments.
6. Accordingly, the entire celebration of this vigil should take place at night, that is,
should either begin after nightfall or end before the dawn of Sunday.

THE PASCHAL TRIDUUM

❖ HOLY THURSDAY: EVENING MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
Liturgical Colour: White or Gold

Preparation
1. The Mass of the Lord's Supper is celebrated in the evening at a convenient time, with
the full participation of the whole local community and with all the priests and
ministers exercising their office
2. All priests may concelebrate even if they have already concelebrated the Chrism Mass
on this day or if they must celebrate another Mass for the good of the Christian faithful.

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3. Holy Communion may only be distributed to the faithful during Mass, but it may be
brought to the sick at any hour of the day.
4. The Altar may be decorated with flowers with a moderation that accords with the
Character of this day.
5. The Tabernacle should be entirely empty, but a sufficient number of hosts should be
consecrated in this Mass for the Communion of the clergy and the people on this day
and the following day.
6. Ministers: The properministers for a Sunday Mass.

Preparation:

7. A Ciborium with host that are to be consecrated for communion on the following day
(Good Friday)
8. Clapper for the Mass, a Humeral Veil, Towels, Bowl, Water and Soap for washing of
feet and other items for washing the Chief Celebrant's hands afterwards.
9. Two thuribles, chairs, processional Crucifix should be veiled with white, while the
10. Altar of Repose is to be prepared appropriately presentable as possible.
11. The Tabernacle is left empty.
12. The Blessed Sacrament is quietly removed from the Chapel before Mass

The Mass
1. The Beginning of the Mass: The entrance into the Chapel and Introductory Rites of
the Mass follow the usual order.
2. The Gloria in Excelsis(Glory to God in the highest): During the singing of the
Gloria, the bells are rung afterwards they remain silent until the Gloria in Excelsisof the
Easter Vigil, unless, if appropriate, the Diocesan Bishop has decided otherwise.
Likewise. during this same period, the organ and other musical instruments may be
used to support the singing. (Ceremonials of Bishops, 300)
3. The Homily: After the proclamation of the Gospel, the Priest gives a homily in which
light is shed on the principal mysteries that are commemorated in this Mass, namely,
the institution of the Holy Eucharist and of the Priestly Order, and the commandment of
the Lord concerning fraternal charity.
4. Preparation for Washing of the Feet:A few moments is observed after the after the
Homilist has taken his [Link] Chief Celebrant proceed to the Credence Table to
remove his Chasuble, accompanied by the Two Deacons and the MC and they all bow
in front of the altar and move to the credence table. By then the servers must have taken
the chairs to the front of the altar and arranged it, then bow in front of the altar and
return to their seats. Meanwhile, the 12 persons for the washing of the feet come
forward before the sanctuary, bow and sit down. At the credence table, the Chief
Celebrant wears the apron/towel as usual (CB. 301).
5. Washing of the Feet Proper: Then the Deacons and the Chief Celebrant bow at the
front of the altar and then move to the 12 persons beginning from the first person from
the ambo for the washing of the feet. He pours water on each person's feet and dries
them with the towel assisted by the Deacons and the MC Meanwhile, antiphons or other
chants are sung (CB. 301)
6. After the Washing of the Feet: The Chief Celebrant with the Deacon returns to the
credence table where he washes and dries his hands, puts the chasuble back on and they
all return to their seats while standing for the prayer of the faithful. Creed is omitted

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7. Prayer of the Faithful: The Chief Celebrant introduces the Prayers of the Faithful and
concludes it in the usual manner (CB. 302).
8. Preface I of the Most Holy Eucharist is recommended
9. When the Roman Canon is used, this special form of it is said, with proper formulas for
the Communicantes (In communion with those) Hancigitur (Therefore, Lord, we pray)
and Qu pridie (On the day before he was to suffer) are used.
10. Bell is not rung at the elevation.
11. During communion, servers go to light the candles at the altar of repose. Thurifer goes
to prepare the coal.
12. After communion, the priest places the ciborium on the altar and genuflects. Other
ciboria are taking to a place of reservation.
13. Only the ciborium and the corporal are to remain on the altar.
14. After a brief silence, the Chief Celebrant stands together with the people to say the
post-communion prayer.
15. The final blessing and dismissal are omitted.
16. The Chief Celebrant with the other ministers come to front of the altar and they all
kneel. The thurifer approaches the Chief Celebrant, puts incense on the thurible, blesses
it and incenses the Blessed Sacrament three times while kneeling,
17. Preparation for the Procession: After a brief silence, the MC brings the humeral veil for
the Chief Celebrant. After putting it on, he goes to the altar, genuflects, takes the
ciborium, and covers it with the ends of the veil.
18. The Order of Procession: The Cross bearer accompanied by the two candles bearers
with lighted candles, the concelebrating priests carrying lighted candles, thurifer and
incense, the priest carrying the Blessed Sacrament, while the Pange Lingua is sung, or
another Eucharistic chant is sung in procession to the altar of repose.
19. When the procession reaches the place of repose, the cross bearer will stand at the
right-hand side, while the candle bearers will kneel alongside all the priests and servers.
The priest, with the help of the Deacon, if necessary, places the Ciborium on the
Corporal at the altar of repose, and the MC receives the humeral veil. Then during the
second verse of the Tantum ergo, the thurifer approaches on the right side of the
celebrant, puts incense in the thurible and, kneeling, incenses the Blessed Sacrament,
and gives the thurible to the MC.
20. After a few minutes of adoration in silence, at the signal of the M.C., the Chief
Celebrant and ministers stand, genuflect, and return to the sacristy.
21. Adoration continues until mid-night (12:00 am), During this hour, different groups are
assigned for adoration until mid-night when all gather for communal adoration after
which a Deacon will take the Blessed Sacrament to designated place of repose.
22. At an appropriate time, the altar is stripped and, if possible, the crosses are removed
from the Chapel. It is expedient that any crosses which remain in the Church be veiled.
23. Vespers (Evening Prayer) is not celebrated by those who have attended the Mass of the
Lord's Supper.

The Altar of Repose is to be prepared as beautiful as possible, while, the Tabernacle is left
empty; the Blessed Sacrament is privately removed from the Church before Mass.

Readings:
✔ 1st Reading: Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14 (The law of the Passover meal)
✔ Responsorial psalm: Psalm 116:12-13. 15.16.17-18. (R. 1 Cor 10:16) (The cup of
blessing is a participation in the blood of Christ)

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 ✔ 2nd Reading: 1 Cor 11:23-26 (As often as you eat this bread and drink the chalice,
you proclaim the Lord’s death)
✔ GospelAcclamation: John 13:34 (A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord,
that you love one another as I have loved you).
✔ Gospel: John 13:1-15 (He loved them to the end).
✔ The Mass begins normal

The Order of Adoration:

Brief Adoration by the Chief Celebrant, Concelebrating Priests, Deacons, other Ministers,
and the entire community. This is followed by moment of Adoration by various groups.
Meanwhile, at 12:00 am (mid-night) all gather for communal adoration after which a Deacon
will take the Blessed Sacrament to the designated Altar of Repose.

GOOD FRIDAY

On this and the following day, by a most ancient tradition, the Church does not celebrate the
Sacraments at all, except for Penance and the Anointing of the [Link] Communion is
distributed to the faithful only within the celebration of the Lord's Passion; but it may be
brought at any hour of the day to the sick who cannot participate in this celebration. The altar
should be completely bare without a Cross, without candles and without cloths.

GOOD FRIDAY: THE CELEBRATION OF THE PASSION OF OUR

LORDLiturgical Colour: Red
Ministers: 2 Deacons and the 4 other ministers (MC, two Acolytes, and one auxiliary server)
Preparation:
1. A veiled Cross.
2. Two candles stand for the procession at the sacristy and microphone for Ecce Lignum.
3. Copies of Passion Narratives for the Lord's Passion.
4. Two Stands for the Passion Narrative.

Entrance into the Sanctuary:

1. The Chief Celebrant, concelebrating priests, deacons wear red vestments and process in
the usual manner. At 3:00 pm, the procession enters the Chapel in silence. On getting to
the sanctuary, the servers will bow and take their positions on the sanctuary. The
Deacons, Concelebrating Priests and the Chief Celebrant making a reverence to the
altar, prostrate themselves before the altar on the mat, others will kneel, and pray for a
while.
2. Then the Chief Celebrant, Concelebrating Priests and the Deacon will stand and bow
and move to their seats without kissing the altar, then the servers will take the mat
away.

Collect: Facing the people who are standing, the Chief Celebrant says, with hands extended,
the prayers.

Part I: Liturgy of the Word

1. The first and second readings takes place in the usual way.
2. The Lord's Passion: When the Gospel acclamation has begun, everyone stands except
the Chief Celebrant. The Deacon goes before the Chief Celebrant and bows and ask for
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 blessing, after which, he moves with those selected to take the reading to the Lectern
for the Passion Narrative.
3. The Lord's Passion is narrated without Candles or Incense. The Greeting before the
Gospel and signing of the book are omitted. At the verse (and he bowed his head
and gave up his spirit) all kneel and pause for a moment in prayer (10 seconds). At the
end of the Passion Narrative, The Gospel of the Lord is sung or said but the book is
not kissed.
4. At the end of the Passion Narrative, the books and the two stands are removed.
5. Homily: After the Passion Narrative, the Chief Celebrant goes to the Lectern for the
homily.
6. The Solemn Intercessions: The liturgy of the Word is concluded with the Solemn
Intercessions which take place in the usual way.
7. Few moments after the homily, one of the Deacons goes to the Lectern for the general
intercessions.
8. The Roman Missal is also placed before the Chief Celebrant for the concluding prayer
of each intercession.
9. Before the Priest's prayer, in accordance with tradition, it is permissible to use the
Deacons invitations. Let us Kneel (FLECTAMUS GENUA)- Let us Stand (LEVATE).
The Priest says the concluding prayer of each intention after the invitation (Let us
stand).

PARTII: The Veneration of the Cross

1. Preparation for the Veneration of the Cross: At the conclusion of the last intention, a
Deacon, two acolytes and the MC move to the Sacristy then pass the side of the Chapel
to the entrance of the Chapel. There, the candle bearers carry the lighted candles. The
MC carries the microphone and the book. All stand as they enter the Chapel.
2. The Unveiling of the Holy Cross:The Deacon carries the Cross and unveil it in three
successive stages. Firstly, at the entrance of the Chapel. Secondly, in the middle of the
Chapel. Finally, at the entrance to the [Link] three stagesthe Cross is uncovered
and the Deacon Chants the Ecce lignum Crucis, and simultaneously lifts the Cross up,
all respond Venite Adoremus, and all kneel for a brief moment adore in silence and rise.
In the last stage at the entrance of the sanctuary, the Deacon facing the people uncovers
the Cross entirely.
3. Veneration of the Cross: After the showing the Cross to the people, the Deacon places
the Cross in a lying manner at the altar. The candle bearers place the lighted candles on
the right and left sides of the Cross
4. The Chief Celebrant alone approaches, with the chasuble and his shoes removed, walks
to the entrance of the chapel, followed by the priests, deacons and other servers, then all
present. They will genuflect three times before the entrance of the sanctuary and bow.
All who are present will do the same. The Chief Celebrant will kiss the Cross.
5. Only one Cross should be offered for veneration.
6. While the veneration of the Holy Cross is taking place, the antiphon,
Crucemtuamadoramus (We adore your Cross, O Lord) and other suitable chants are
sung, during which all who have already venerated the Cross remain seated.
7. When the veneration has been concluded, the Cross is carried by the Deacon or a
minister to its place at the altar. Lighted candles are placed around or on the altar or
near the Cross.

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PART III: Holy Communion
1. Preparation of the Altar:After the Veneration of the Cross, the altar is covered with a
white cloth by a server, another server brings the corporal, and the missal are placed on
the altar.
2. The Deacon accompanied with three servers proceed to the sacristy. The Deacon puts
on a humeral veil, while the minister carries two candles’ bearers and the other takes
the clapper. The proceed to the Altar of Repose to bring the Consecrated Host.
3. At the sound of the clapper, all stand as the Blessed Sacrament is brought in
silence to the altar. On getting to the altar, the candle bearers go directly to the altar
and simultaneously place their candles on or next to it. The Blessed Sacrament is then
placed on the altar, and he uncovers the Ciborium. The Deacon goes to the credence
table to remove the humeral veil while the two candle bearers genuflect together and
return to their seats.
4. The Chief Celebrant goes to the altar, genuflects, and says aloud:
5. At the Saviour’s command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say...
6. Then with hands extended, he continues with all present:
7. Our Father, who art in heaven...
8. The Chief Celebrant continues alone:
9. Deliver us Lord....
10. Preparation of the Holy Communion: During the response: For the Kingdom, the
Power and the Glory are yours...the Ciboria to be used for distribution of Holy
Communion are brought to the altar,
11. The sign of peace is not offered.
12. Reception of Holy Communion: The Chief Celebrant genuflects, takes the Body of
Christ holding it slightly raised over the Ciborium, while facing the people, says aloud:
Behold the Lamb of God...He receives Communion and distribute accordingly.
13. The clapper will be sounded when the Chief Celebrant receives communion.
Communion is distributed as usual. During the distribution of Communion appropriate
chant may be sung.
14. Returning the Blessed Sacrament: When communion is over, the Deacon wearing the
humeral veil carries the Blessed Sacrament accompanied by two candles bearers with
lighted candles and the bearer of the clapper in front of the altar. They all bow except
Deacon; the Blessed Sacrament is returned to the tabernacle in the Sacristy or at a
designated place. They returned to the sanctuary afterwards in that order but without
candle stands (as they will be placed by the sides of the tabernacle).
15. Dismissal: After a period of sacred silence, the Chief Celebrant rises and says the
prayer after Communion. The Deacon says the invitation (bow down for the blessing).
The Chief Celebrant says the prayer. Then the Chief Celebrant, Concelebrating Priests,
Deacons, and other ministers come in front of the altar, genuflects before the Cross and
quietly returns to the sacristy.
16. And all, after genuflecting to the Cross, depart in silence.
17. After the celebration the altar is stripped, but the Cross remains on the sanctuary with
two or four candles.

Vespers is not celebrated by those who have been present at the solemn afternoon liturgical
celebration, but Complineas given for after Evening Prayer II of Sundays.

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Readings:

✔ 1st Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12 (“He was wounded for our transgression.” Fourth
song of the Servant of the Lord)
✔ Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 31:2.6.12-13.15-16.17.25 (R. Luke 23:46) (Father, into
your hands I commit my spirit)
✔ 2nd Reading:Hebrew 4:14-16; 5:7-9 (He learned obedience and became the source of
eternal salvation to all who obey him)
✔ Gospel Acclamation:Phil 2:8.9 (Christ became obedient for us unto death, even on a
cross. Therefore, God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is
above every name).
✔ Gospel: John 18: 1-19:42 (Passion Narrative)

HOLY SATURDAY
Liturgical Colour: White
1. On Holy Saturday the Church waits at the Lord's tomb in prayer and fasting meditating
on his Passion and Death and on his Descent into Hell, and awaiting his Resurrection.
2. The Church abstains from the sacrifice of the Mass, with the sacred table left bare until
the solemn Vigil, that is the anticipation by night of the Resurrection, when the time
comes for paschal joys the abundance of which overflows to occupy fifty days.
3. Holy Communion may only be given on this as Viaticum.
4. Easter time opens with the solemn celebrations of the Easter Vigil and ends on
Pentecost Sunday.
5. This time, which lasts fifty days, leads the faithful to a deeper understanding and
experience of the presence of the Risen Lord in their midst.
6. The resurrection of the Lord is the foundation of our Christian faith and that is why the
Church offers us the opportunity to reflect and pray about it for such a long time.
7. Vigil By a most ancient tradition, this night is regarded as the "Mother of All Holy
Vigil since it is the night when the Church awaits in prayer the Resurrection of the
Lord and celebrates the Sacraments of Christian Initiation.
8. This Vigil needs to be prepared well to grasp its centrality and effects in our Church
life.

Liturgical Color: White

Ministers: 2 Deacons and the usual ministers for Sunday Mass
Preparation:
1. A large fire prepared at the entrance to the Chapel or a convenient place.
2. A Paschal Candle, stand on the Sanctuary and Glass to protect it.
3. Torchlight.
4. 5 grains of incense and stylus.
5. Tools for lighting the Easter candle and putting charcoal in the thurible.
6. Altar candles but unlit.
7. Candles for the Priests, Deacons, and the Congregation.
8. The lights in and around the Chapel are put off.
9. The tabernacle is empty and left open,
10. Candles are given to people.

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PART I: The Solemn Beginning of the Vigil or Lucernarium
The Procession from the Sacristy to the place of the Fire:

1. The thurifer with empty thurible, followed by the servers, the Cross bearer carries the
Paschal Candle, the Deacons, and all priests.
2. They walk to the place where the fire is burning
3. The Deacons and servers stand close to the Chief Celebrant.
4. Introduction and Blessing of the Fire: When the people are gathered, the Chief
Celebrant and the faithful sign themselves while he says. In the name of the Father,
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and then he greets the assembled people in the
usual way and briefly instructs them about the night vigil and blesses the fire, with
hands extended, as in the Roman Missal.
5. Preparation of the Candle: After the blessing of the fire, the Paschal candle is brought
to the Chief Celebrant, who cuts a cross into the candle with a stylus. Then he makes
the Greek letter Alpha above the cross, the letter Omega below, and the four numerals
of the current year between the arms of the cross, saying meanwhile as in the missal.
6. When the cutting of the cross and of the other signs has been completed, the Chief
Celebrant may insert five grains of incense into the candle in the form of a cross,
meanwhile saying as in the missal.
7. Lightning of the Candle: After the preparation of the candle, the Chief Celebrant
lights the Paschal candle from the new fire, saying (May the light of Christ rising in
glory dispel the darkness of our hearts and minds).
8. The Preparation of the Thurible. The charcoal is put into the thurible. The Chief
Celebrant puts incense into the thurible. The Deacon receives the candle for the
procession.
9. The Procession: The thurifer with a smoking thurible precedes, followed by the
Deacon with The Paschal Candle, the servers, the other Deacon, the Priests, Chief
Celebrant, and the congregation. Everyone holding unlighted candle.
10. First Stop: At the Entrance door of the Chapel the Deacon, standing and raising up the
Paschal Candle, Sings: Lumen Christi (The Light of Christ) And all reply: Deo Gratias
(Thanks be to God). The Priest(s) alone lights his (their) candle from the Paschal
Candle.
11. Second Stop: Then the Deacon moves forward to the middle of the Chapel and
standing and raising up the Paschal Candles, sings a second time: Lumen Christi(The
Light of Christ) And all reply: Deo Gratias (Thanks be to God). All light their candles
from the flame of the Paschal Candle and continue in procession.
12. Third Stop: When the Deacon arrives before the altar, he stands facing the people,
raises up the candle and sings a third time: Lumen Christi (The Light of Christ) and all
reply: Deo Gratias(Thanks be to God). Then the Deacon places the Paschal Candle on a
large candle stand prepared next to the ambo or in the middle of the sanctuary. Then
lights are lit throughout the Chapel, except for the altar candles.
13. Entrance into the Sanctuary: Every server and minister enter the sanctuary, bows and
stands before their seats including the Chief Celebrant.
14. The Easter Proclamation (Exsultet): When everyone has entered the Chapel, the
thurify and incense boat go to the Chief Celebrant who puts incense in the thurible
15. Then the Deacon goes to the Chief Celebrant and saying: Your blessing Father, asks
for and receives a blessing from him, who says in low voice. The Lord be in your
heart and on your lips, that you may worthily proclaim his Easter praise, in the
Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. The Deacon replies,
Amen.

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16. The Deacon, after incensing the Book and the Candle, proclaims the Easter
Proclamation (Exsultet) at the ambo, with all standing and holding lighted candles in
their hands.

PART II: The Liturgy of the Word

In this Vigil, the mother of all Vigils, nine readings are provided, namely seven from the Old
Testament and two from the New Testament (the Epistle and Gospel), all of which should be
read whenever this can be done, so that the character of the Vigil, which demands an
extended period of time, may be preserved. Nevertheless, where more serious pastoral
circumstances demand it, the number of readings from the Old Testament may be reduced,
always bearing in mind that the reading of the Word of God is a fundamental part of this
Easter Vigil At least three readings should be read from the Old Testament, both from the
Law and the from the Prophets, and their respective Responsorial Psalms should be sung
Never, should the reading of chapter 14 of Exodus with its canticle be omitted.

1. A server puts the lectionary on the ambo.

2. At the end of the Exsultet, setting aside their candles, all sit. Before the reading begins
the Chief Celebrant instruct the people in the word as in the missal.
3. A Lector goes to the ambo and proclaims the reading and sings the Psalm with the
people. Then the Chief Celebrant says (Let us pray). All stand, and after all have
prayed in silence, he says the prayers corresponding to the reading. Nine readings are
provided. The Gloria is sung after the seventh reading.
4. At the end of each reading and the psalm, the Lector remain standing at the ambo and at
the end of the prayer return to their designated place in the usual manner.
5. Gloria in Excelsis Deo: After the last reading from the Old Testament with its
Responsorial Psalm and its prayer, the altar candles are lit, and the Priest intones the
hymn Gloria in excelsis Deo (Glory to God in the highest), which is taken up by all,
while bells are rung, according to local custom.
6. Collect: When the hymn is concluded, the Chief Celebrant says the Collect in the usual
way.
7. After the Collect, the lector comes forward to proclaim the reading from the Epistle
8. The Alleluia: After the Epistle has been read, all rise, then the Chief Celebrant
solemnly Intones the Alleluia three times, raising his voice by a step each time, with all
repeating it
9. Afterwards, the Lector continues with the Alleluia verse of the reading with the people
who respond after each stanza with same joyful Alleluia tune.
10. Preparation before the Gospel: During the Alleluia for the Acclamation, the thurifer
and incense boat bearer goes to the Chief Celebrant, and he puts incense on the thurible.
The Deacon approaches the Chief Celebrant for blessing before the proclamation of the
Gospel. Candles are not used for the Gospel.
11. During the proclamation of the Gospel, only the thurifer and the M.C. will accompany
the Deacon to the ambo.
12. Gospel and Homily: The Gospel is proclaimed by the Deacon. The homily is given by
the Chief Celebrant, even if brief, is not to be omitted.

PART III: Baptismal Rite

Blessing of Water: After the homily, the Priest blesses the water using the formula in the
missal.

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1. The Renewal of Baptismal Promises: After the blessing of water, all stand, holding
lighted Candles in their hands, and renew the promise of baptismal faith.
2. Afterwhich, the Chief Celebrant sprinkles the people with the Holy Water beginning
from the sanctuary and assisted by a Priest and two Deacons, while the choir sings the
Vidi aquam.
3. After the sprinkling of the Holy water, the Chief Celebrant returns to his chair while the
priest and the two Deacons returns to their seats.
4. Creed is omitted.
5. Prayer of the Faithful: Chief Celebrant introduces the prayer of the faithful which are
said and concluded in the usual way.

PART IV: Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist

1. The Chief Celebrant goes to the altar and begin the liturgy of the Eucharist in the usual
way.
2. From the Offertory till the end of the Mass, everything is done in the usual way. 3.
Preface 1 of Easter (The Paschal Mystery) is recommended as in the missal.
3. The Tabernacle: This will be decorated but left open from the beginning of the vigil
until after communion when the priest will keep the Blessed Sacrament there.
4. During the AgnusDei (the Lamb of God), the Deacon will go to the sacristy to bring the
Blessed Sacrament to the altar.
5. Dismissal: After the Prayer after Communion, solemn blessing as in the missal is
given. The Deacon invites all to (bow for the blessing). The Deacons adds a double
(Alleluia) at the ending the dismissal (Go forth, the Mass is ended, Alleluia, Alleluia).
All reply: (Thanks be to God, Alleluia, Alleluia). This practice is observed throughout
the Octave of Easter. The Paschal Candle is lit in more solemn liturgical celebration of
this period.

⮚ Liturgy of the Word:

Seven Readings from the Old Testament
✔ Genesis 1:1-2:2 (God saw everything he had made, and behold, it was very good).
✔ Genesis 22:1-18 (The sacrifice of Abraham our Father in faith).
✔ Exodus 14:15-15: 1 (The sons of Israel walked on dry ground through the sea).
✔ Isaiah 54:5-14 (With everlasting mercy I will have compassion on you, says the Lord,
you redeemer).
✔ Isaiah 55:1-11 (Come to me that your soul may live. I will make you an everlasting
covenant).
✔ Baruch 3:9-15.32-4:4 (Walk towards the shining light of the Lord).
✔ Ezekiel 36:16-17a.18-28 (I shall sprinkle clean water upon you; a new heart I will
give you).
Gloria
Collect
✔ Epistle: Roman 6:3-11 (Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again).
The Chief Celebrant solemnly intones the Alleluia three times, raising his voice by a step
each time with all repeating it.
Then the lector proclaims psalm 118 with the people responding Alleluia…
✔ Gospel (Year A): Matthew 28:1-10 (He has risen and he is going before you to
Galilee).
AftertheGospel, the Homily, even if brief, is not to be omitted.
The blessing of the water takes place.
Renewal of baptismal promises/sprinkling of blessed water (Holy Water).

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 The Mass continues in the usual way.

EASTER SUNDAY
1. Mass as usual for Sundays, but with the following:
2. At all Masses on Easter Sunday the Renewal of Baptismal Promises and its
accompanying sprinkling rite replace the creed and the penitential rite (Vidi aquam or
another appropriate chant is sung).
3. In addition to following the homily, these rites may also take place as part of the
introductory rites. A Rite of Sprinkling appropriately replaces the more usual
Penitential Rite during the Easter Season, at the very least on the Sundays of Easter
including Pentecost (Foreword GIRM).
4. The Ordo reminds us that the Easter Sequence is to be sung or recited during the
Octave of Easter. The double Alleluia is added to the sung dismissal formulary during
the octave (CB 373).

EASTER SEASON
1. The fifty days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, audibly and visually, are celebrated in
joyful exultation as one feast day, or better as one “great Sunday.”
2. The first eight days of the Easter Season make up the Octave of Easter and are
celebrated as Solemnities of the Lord (CB 371, 373).
3. The Paschal Candle must be made of wax, never be artificial, be renewed each year, be
only one in number and be of sufficiently large size, so that it may evoke the truth that
Christ is the light of the world (CL 82).
4. The Easter candle is lighted for all liturgical celebrations of the season (CB 372).
5. After Pentecost, the Easter Candle is returned to its place near the baptismal font. It is
not extinguished after the Gospel Reading of either Ascension or Pentecost.

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