Easter Vigil

Download the Easter Vigil Bulletin.

The Easter Story by Brian Wildsmith, for children of all ages.

Order homemade hot cross buns from Zoe Duncan.

Pascal Candle created by Bettina Daszczuk

Our 2020 Pascal Candle

As a special treat for this year Bettina Daszczuk, who decorates all our baptismal candles, created this amazing Pascal Candle which has its debut at the Easter Vigil. This candle is lit for all the fifty days of Easter, and for every Baptism, Wedding and Funeral in the coming year. Here is an explanation of the symbols on the candle.

The Cross

Just as the cross is made out of many pieces of different shapes and colors, so is our
St. John’s community. We come from all different backgrounds and have unique talents and experiences. Even though, we are all different, when we come together, we complement each other and become one church family. 

The Lamb of God

The Lamb is a symbol of Jesus Christ, who died for us, and rose from the dead. Through his death and resurrection, we are all freed from sin. When John the Baptist sees Jesus for the first time he proclaims “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). On this year’s paschal candle, the Lamb of God has no face. It is a reminder that, as Christians, we are asked to see Christ in each other. 

Alpha and Omega

In the classical Greek alphabet, Alpha is the first letter, and Omega is the last letter. In the Book of Revelation (1:8) Jesus proclaims, “I am the Alpha and Omega.” Jesus is the beginning and the end of everything. 

The Celtic Knot Band

Made from a single strand, the complete loops that have no start or finish are said to represent eternity. The braided design, with its many points of the strand crossing over itself, symbolizes how life and eternity are interconnected. The knotted band reminds us that our lives are connected with Jesus. When Jesus rose from the dead, we all gained eternal life through him.