The Easter Triduum was completed last night with the Easter Vigil at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. The celebration commenced with the blessing of the Fire and the Paschal Candle. A deacon was on hand to sing the Easter Proclamation or Exultet which was followed by a number of readings. The Cathedral lights were turned on, the altar linen put in place and the cloth covering the images of the saints were removed after the Bishop intoned the Gloria. After the homily, the faithful did their renewal of Baptismal Promises.
The faithful gathered in front of the Cathedral for the blessing of fire which was led by Bishop Isabelo Abarquez.
The Paschal candle and the candles of the faithful illuminating the dark cathedral.
With lighted candles on hand, Bishop Isabelo Abarquez and Fr. Iluminado Paulino wait as Fr. Julio Gaddi assists the deacon prior to the singing of the Exultet.
A lector does one of the many readings for the night.
While the Gloria was being sung, the cloth covering the images of the saints at the retablo were removed (pix above) and altar linen were put in place (pix below).
The Bishop as he delivered his homily.
Bishop Abarquez leading the Blessing of the Water.
The blessing of the people which followed the renewal of baptismal vows.
