Chants of “Gloria” filled Regina Pacis Cathedral in Small Soppo as Christians gathered for a joyful celebration of the Easter Vigil Mass on April 19, 2025. This sacred observance marked the first celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, joyfully proclaiming that He has risen from the dead. Faithful held lighted candles, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world.
Easter Vigil , procession with lighted Paschal Candle
Commemorating this significant event of the Easter Triduum, His Lordship Michael Bibi, Bishop of Buea, highlighted that the resurrection of Christ differs from other resurrections mentioned in scripture, such as the story of Lazarus in Luke 7:21-17 . Bishop Bibi explained that Christ’s resurrection was not meant to return to earthly life but to bring Him back to His Father in heaven.
faithful chant songs of joy
This resurrection calls on Christians to believe in its significance. The prelate referenced the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 633, noting that Christ’s descent into hell was not to destroy hell but to free virtuous souls, thus completing His last mission as the Messiah. Christians were urged to live in Jesus, the light of the world, and to reflect Christ, who is Light Himself.
Christians called to share the light of Christ
The Easter Vigil Mass commenced with the lighting of the Paschal candle by His Lordship Michael Bibi. This significant ritual symbolizes Jesus Christ as the Light of the World. The light signifies the resurrection, which dispels the darkness of sin and death, embodying the hope and new life received through Christ’s resurrection. Christians are called to share the light of the resurrected Christ.
lighting of the Paschal Candle
Additionally, the Easter Vigil Mass witnessed the administration of the Sacrament of Baptism to several infants. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1212, baptism, confirmation, and Holy Communion form the foundation of Christian initiation, with baptism serving as the gateway to all other sacraments.
Bishop performs baptismal rites
