Celebrating the Paschal Mystery

That message also resounded in Catholic communities around the world, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the underground churches in China and the suffering Catholic communities in Ukraine and Gaza, to bring forth a song of hope and a brave “Alleluia” in the face of tragedy and despair. For many, this Triduum was a return and journey to Christ and His Church, especially for the 2,669 who joined the Church this Easter. On Holy Thursday, thousands joined Liturgies to remember the Last Supper, and on Good Friday, many groups re-enacted the Stations of the Cross.

As part of the joyous Easter celebration, Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez welcomed these new Catholics into the local Church of Galveston-Houston. Thousands, many supported by their families and friends, began the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) process in February. This OCIA process, carried out in parishes and dioceses across Galveston-Houston and the U.S., came full circle as the U.S. Church welcomed thousands of new Catholics at Easter Vigil Masses April 19.

While people can become Catholic at any time of the year, the Easter Vigil celebrates the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, so these high holy days are particularly appropriate for catechumens who have never been baptized to receive Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion at the Easter Vigil. Candidates who were already baptized completed their initiation through a profession of faith, were confirmed and received the Eucharist. Across the U.S., thousands more new Catholics were welcomed into the Church during Easter Vigil Masses. On Easter Day, thousands attended Masses to welcome the Easter season and celebrate the resurrection.

Now, the paschal candle is lit in every church, and the Easter season continues for 50 days in the Catholic Church until Pentecost Sunday, June 8. †