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.

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, Paschal [or other] candle, music, liturgy
Reading		Luke 24:1–10
Music		"Alleluia," "You Have Put On Christ," Blest Are We Music CD 2
Preparation		If possible, borrow the parish Paschal candle. Describe each symbol on the candle: the cross and date represent Christ, yesterday and today; the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, alpha and omega, represent the beginning and the end; the five cloves remind us of the wounds [hands, feet, side] Jesus endured on the cross. The lighting of the candle itself represents Christ and his rising in glory. Print out and photo copy the liturgy, "Christ is Risen." Select a Scripture reader and prepare your role as leader.
Adaptation		If you cannot borrow the parish candle, create your own Paschal candle by using a candle that is at least 2-1/2" in diameter. Carve or paint a cross, the numbers for the year, and the alpha and omega on the candle, and carve five holes to insert cloves.
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