Why We Do What We Do: Easter Edition
Reasons behind Episcopal practices for liturgical seasons.
- The Easter Season goes from the Easter Vigil til Pentecost (50 days). It is longer and more important than Lent.
- The two main symbols of Easter are the Paschal Candle and the Font.
- The Paschal Candle is the large candle lighted throughout the Great Fifty Days. It is marked with the Alpha and Omega (the beginning and the end) and five nails containing incense symbolizing the glorious wounds of Christ. It is also lighted at baptisms and funerals.
- The font is located at the back of the church since it is through baptism we enter the church. Feel free to dip you hand into the water as you enter church or make the sign of the cross as a small way of reminding yourselves of your baptism when entering the church.
- You will get wet in the Easter Season! Asperges or sprinkling with Holy Water is another small way to remind you of your baptism. It is also very fun for priests!
- Since it is a season of joy the confession is traditionally omitted. In the early church kneeling was also forbidden since it was a sign of penance, but that is up to your personal piety.
- We will be using Eucharistic Prayer D in the Easter Season. Traditionally, attributed to St. Basil from the 4th Century. He stressed the role of baptism and the Holy Spirit in the prayer. The Prayers of the People can also be included in the Eucharistic Prayer.