Sights & Sounds: Parishes rejoice in the Resurrection

Beginning with the Easter Vigil after sundown on April 4, parishes across the Archdiocese of Newark celebrated the resurrection of Jesus with great joy. Paschal candles were lit, and the “Alleluia” was proclaimed for the first time since the beginning of Lent.

During these liturgies, more than 600 catechumens were welcomed into the Catholic Church as they received the Sacraments of Initiation at their parishes.

Cardinal Tobin also released his annual Easter message that evening, in which he said that Christ’s resurrection “touches us here and now,” even in our fears and struggles.

“The resurrection of Jesus assures us that God is present even amid suffering and confusion,” he said. “Easter reminds us that violence, division, and death do not have the final word.”

The cardinal’s full message is available to view in English and Spanish.

‘Christ indeed from death is risen’

On Sunday, during the Liturgy of the Word, the Easter Sequence was sung, announcing that the Lord had conquered death:

“Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining.
Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning!”

Some communities celebrated in unique ways, like the Filipino Catholic tradition of ‘Salubong,’ which recalls the joyous meeting of the Blessed Virgin Mary with her Risen Son on Easter morning.

Parish families also prayed for peace during a time of war and unrest, remembering especially those who are serving far from home this Easter season.

Later that day, children enjoyed Easter egg hunts, and families gathered to feast and give thanks to God for His mercy and countless blessings.

To view a photo gallery featuring images from Easter celebrations across the archdiocese, CLICK HERE.

Featured image: The paschal candle is prepared with incense representing the nails that crucified Christ and the triumph of light over darkness during the Easter Vigil at Immaculate Heart of Mary and Saint Patrick’s Parish in Elizabeth, NJ. (Courtesy of Immaculate Heart of Mary and St Patrick Church Elizabeth, NJ Facebook page)