Alleluia, Christ is risen! The Great Vigil of Easter at St. Vincent's Cathedral

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” Matthew 28:5-10

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,eaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:16-20

We had a good number of baptisms, confirmations, and reaffirmations for Bishop Iker to perform tonight, as well as first communion for several youngsters. Among those confirmed tonight was Taylor, winner of five "outstanding student" awards for Religion coursework undertaken during her three years at St. Vincent's middle school--quite a feat!

Congratulations to all the newly baptised, confirmed, and first communed! Happy Easter!