Because the vigil has so much content and so many parts, this physical progression contributes momentum and keeps the liturgy fresh. This ancient service, dating from the fourth century, is being recovered by many Christian traditions. A successful vigil requires careful planning and preparation. If you are interested in starting one, it would be helpful first to participate in a vigil. Because this is such an historic liturgy, take care to maintain the integrity of all four portions.
Preparation needs to include helping worshipers understand that the service is rather lengthy.
The power of Easter Vigil comes through strong symbols of light and water, together with sacrament and Word. Some say this is the most evangelical, biblical, sacramental, and liturgical occasion of worship in the whole of Christian life. Hope Church has found Easter Vigil to be a most dramatic, impressive, and solemn way to celebrate what God has done, is doing, and will do. This article appeared originally in Servant Leaders, Winter 1996, Volume One, Number Four.