Easter, the feast of Christ’s Resurrection, is the central celebration of the Christian liturgical year. The Resurrection is the foundation of our faith, hope, and courage. Through Jesus’ Resurrection, we too will rise from the dead one day, both body and soul. These prayer celebrations will help participants share prayer during this holy season.

See Liturgical Calendar–Seasons–Easter for additional background information and prayer.


"Christ is Risen" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Experiencing the symbolism of the Paschal candle
Materials Needed		Prayer table, Bible, candle, baptismal candle, small bowl of holy water, small jar of oil, white garment or cloth, music, liturgy
Suggested Reading		Luke 24:1–10
Suggested Music		"Alleluia," "You Have Put On Christ," Blest Are We Music CD 2; "Resucucitó/He is Risen," Kiko Argüello, "Jesus is Risen," Barbara Bridge (OCP Publications)
Preparation		Before the prayer celebration, discuss with children what they already know about Baptism. Explain that Easter is an important time when people are frequently baptized. Select four children to hold the water, candle, oil, and white garment during the liturgy. Prepare your role as leader. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "New Life in Christ," for each child.
Adaptation		Invite a newly baptized Catholic at your parish to come and talk with your group about the Easter Baptism experience.
Additional Materials		"Alleluia," "You Have Put On Christ" Blest Are We Music CD 2 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36653-0 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2