Radiant Joy of the Risen Lord: Easter Vigil 2026 at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail Back

Radiant Joy of the Risen Lord: Easter Vigil 2026 at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail

As Christians around the world celebrate Easter 2026, the solemn feast of the Resurrection reminds us that Christ has conquered sin and death, offering new life and hope to all. The Easter Vigil marks the passage from darkness to light, death to resurrection, and sorrow to boundless joy. On this holy night, the Church gathers in watchful prayer, proclaiming the victory of the Risen Lord.

The Easter celebrations at Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail, began at 7:00 pm on Saturday, 4th April 2026. Parishioners and devotees gathered at the Derebail Church Grounds for the Easter Vigil Mass.

The celebrations commenced with the blessing of the new fire and the lighting of the Paschal Candle (also known as the Easter Candle) by Rev. Fr. Prakash, Director of St Joseph’s Engineering College, Vamanjoor. This was followed by the solemn Easter Proclamation (Exsultet) sung by Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Parish Priest and concelebrant. As the beautiful chant unfolded, all the devotees lit their individual candles from the flame of the blessed Paschal Candle, filling the grounds with the warm glow of Christ, our Light.

Rev. Fr. Prakash, the main celebrant, delivered a powerful homily. He reminded the faithful that “Darkness has no final word, but the Light has overcome it. Jesus is our Hope.” Drawing from the Old Testament, he recalled the calling of Abraham and the near sacrifice of his son Isaac, moments when everything seemed to be ending, yet God was present, bringing blessing and life.

“In moments of crisis, we often forget the blessings of the past,” Father said. “God will make a way where there seems to be no way. We must remember this and sing, whenever we face difficulties.” He urged everyone to fill the emptiness within with God’s Word, which brings light and peace. “Every Good Friday in our life carries an Easter,” he added. “When families are broken or in distress, remember that the Risen Lord is at work. Do not be afraid.” Father concluded by emphasizing that Easter is not merely a celebration but a calling to shine the light of Christ on others and to spread the Good News of the Resurrection.

After the homily, Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris, Assistant Parish Priest and concelebrant, performed the blessing of the baptismal water. This profound rite recalls the waters of creation and it invites all present to renew their baptismal promises. The blessed holy water was then sprinkled upon the devotees as a sign of spiritual cleansing and renewal. The Prayers of the Faithful followed, along with the offertory, where parishioners brought forward their gifts. The Derebail Church Choir enriched the entire Mass with uplifting melodies and harmonious singing.

Report by: Ashish Carvalho
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes

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