Why is Easter such a big deal?

Pope Benedict XVI said that 'the event of Christ's death and Resurrection is the heart of Christianity'.  This is because it is at Easter when we remember that despite everything, life triumphs over all.
This idea that 'life triumphs' gifts us hope, and this hope enables us to live as people open to God's future.
In Christ's Resurrection everything in the world changed.  'Because death 'no longer has dominion' (Rom.6:9) over Jesus, it has no more power over us.  Joy and hope entered the world.' (YouCat 108)

​The Paschal Candle is lit for the first time on Holy Saturday.

This candle is used through out the Easter season and at baptisms throughout the year.
​The Paschal candle has different symbols on it to represent Jesus.
A cross
A flame, ​Jesus is the light of the world.
The first and last letter of the Greek alphabet (alpha and omega). This symbolises that Jesus is the beginning and the end.
It also has the year reminding us that Christ is Lord of our time.
Finally it has 5 grains of incense on the cross that symbolise the wounds of Jesus (head, feet, hands and side).

The Easter Vigil has many amazing symbols but perhaps the most powerful is that of fire.
Jesus came into this world to set our hearts on fire, and as the light of this candle spreads through the church it reminds us that we carry that very same spirit in us.
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Alleluia!
​"Let us praise the Lord"
​FACT: Comes from Hebrew halal = praise ye!, glorify! and the divine name YHWH (Youcat214)

Our response to Jesus' Resurrection is hope in everlasting life, and a commitment to live out Jesus' mission in our everyday life.