Holy Saturday is referred to as the most holy night in Christendom. It is the first celebration each liturgical year of the risen Christ, the victory over sin and death, and it is a fittingly elaborate remembrance of this event which changed human history.
        The observance began outdoors under clear, twilight skies. The new fire is lighted and blessed in front of the faithful. After prayers and blessing, the Pascal candle was lighted from the new fire and carried into the darkened church. The Exultet was sung and recited, the official Easter proclamation. The light was shared among the congregation, scriptures were recited, the church was illuminated to the strains of the Gloria. Father Taylor's sermon challenged us to BE Christ in this world.
        New members were brought in by baptism as in the case of the two children who joined this year. Adults entered via their own professions of the Catholic faith, confirmation, and first Holy Communion. The faithful renewed their own baptismal vows, and were sprinkled with water from the baptismal font. The Eucharist completed the late night celebration of the resurrection, and of our salvation.