EASTER CELEBRATIONS at St Mary's Cathedral

By Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese

10 April 2004

8.00pm – Easter Vigil

The Easter Vigil, celebrated by Cardinal George Pell, Archbishop of Sydney, will begin outside the southern entry of the Cathedral with the Blessing of the New Fire. From this fire the Easter Candle is lit. Cardinal Pell will then process the Easter Candle into the darkened Cathedral.

The Vigil symbolises new life and through the ceremony the story of creation unfolds, culminating in the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus. Thus the Easter Vigil is the high point of the Church's year.

The Easter Vigil will have significance for a number of people who will be initiated into the family of the Catholic Church. Their Baptism as adults comes about after months of preparation.

Sunday 11 April 2004

7.00am , 9.00am , 10.30am (Choir Mass) and 6.00pm – Easter Sunday Mass

The Easter Sunday mass at 10.30am , celebrated by Cardinal George Pell, will be a joyful celebration of the Risen Jesus.

St Mary's Cathedral Choir, St Mary's Singers and Cathedral Girl Choristers numbering to 120 voices will lead the singing. A 30-piece orchestra with musicians drawn from Sydney 's leading orchestras will accompany them.

THE MEDIA ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND BOTH EVENTS.

For more information, contact: Monsignor Tony Doherty, St Mary's Cathedral, phone 0417 040 506.