Easter Vigil mass held at Vilnius Cathedral

The Easter Vigil, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, was celebrated on Saturday at Vilnius Cathedral, Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT) reports.

The liturgy, one of the most significant in the Christian tradition, began after nightfall, symbolising the transition from Holy Saturday—the day commemorating Christ’s rest in the tomb—to Easter Sunday. The service is divided into four parts: the Service of Light, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of Baptism, and the Eucharist.

During the Service of Light, a fire was blessed and lit outside the cathedral, from which the Paschal candle was ignited. Worshippers then lit their own candles from its flame, filling the church with light. The Liturgy of the Word followed, featuring readings, the singing of the Gloria, and the ringing of church bells. The Liturgy of Baptism included the blessing of baptismal water and the renewal of baptismal vows, while the Eucharist celebrated Christ’s resurrection.

The Easter Vigil concludes Holy Week, with believers exchanging the traditional greeting, “Christ is risen!”—heralding the start of Easter, the most important feast in the Christian calendar.