The Paschal or Easter Candle is a large, decorated and dated candle. At each year's Easter Vigil, it is carried into the darkened church, we lit it at funeral services and baptisms during the year. It stands for the risen Savior who is the light of the world. Easter Vigil is celebrated on Holy Saturday evening after sundown, historically a time for baptizing, confirming, receiving new members into the church and celebrating the first Easter Communion. We always celebrate with the other Elkhart Lutherans.
Easter comes from the name of an ancient spring festival.
We begin with a glorious procession, trumpets, and the redressing of the church. Fasting, Abstinence, Almsgiving, Self-denial and Penance refer to the Christian practice of intentionally giving one s time, energy and possessions for others, especially the needy, as Christ gave himself for us. Giving Up something as a Lenten discipline includes giving for someone or something as a blessing. Our Lenten coin folders remind us to take time for spiritual things and are a device for setting aside money to help others in need.