Xaghra Parish » Gallery » Randan 2008 » 22 MAR 2008 HOLY SATURDAY EASTER VIGIL PART 2

After singing of the Gloria, Mass carried on. Joseph Said read the Lessons and Mgr Eucharist Sultana read the extract from the Gospel followed by the homily by Mgr Archpriest. After the Homily, six men carried three drums filled with fresh water to be blessed by Mgr. Archpriest Carmelo Refalo. A big metal bowl at the foot of the Pascal Candle was filled with water and the three drums were then placed on one side in front of the Presbytery. In line with the ritual, Mgr Refalo dipped the bottom end of the Pascal Candle in the water for three times thereby sanctifying the water. He then sprinkled the congregation with the newly blessed water. Meantime, Noel and Maria Sabina Sultana were waiting with their two month old baby girl and her godparents Mario Sultana and Mrs. Mary Zammit to have therr daughter baptized (see Baptism page on this site). This was carried out by the Archpriest and baby Thea, Marita and Anna was greeted as the newest member of the Church community to the applause of all present while the Archpriest held her high for all to see. And she looked really like enjoying it with a big smile on her little face! The Third part of the liturgy started with the Prayers of the Faithful read by five young people. This was followed by Mass Offerings. Among those presenting them to the Archpriest were two couples, Attard, from Sydney Australia and Mr. Sultana from New York in the United States of America. Again as usual on this occasion, no corner in the Basilica was empty as the nave and both aisles were full of the faithful. Two large monitors in both aisles helped the congregation follow the proceedings.

A1 During the Gloria
A2 The statue of the Risen Christ coming up on the High Altar
A3 Statue in place on the High Altar
A4 Singing the Gloria
A5
A6
A7 The Lessons - Joseph Said
A8 The Gospel - Mgr Eucharist Sultana
A9 The homily - Mgr Archpriest Refalo
B1 Aisle on right hand side
B2 The nave
B3 The nave
B4 The aisle on left hand side
B5 Men carry water in the drums
B6 Filling the bowl with water
B7 Drums with water
B8 Parents and godparents with baby
B9 Mother and baby
C1 Sanctifying the water
C2 Praying over the baby

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