Posted April 21, 2014

Auxiliary Bishop Michael Fitzgerald visited Holy Trinity Parish in Morrisville, Bucks County, to celebrate Mass for the Easter Vigil on April 19. The Mass contained four components. The first was the Service of Light including the blessing of the Easter fire and lighting of the paschal candle. In a completely dark church the pastor, Father John Eckert, lit the paschal candle which was then used to light the candles held by the people, filling the church with points of light. Next were the Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of Baptism, where the congregation renewed their baptismal vows, and finally the Liturgy of the Eucharist. During the Mass Bishop Fitzgerald confirmed one adult candidate, Geoffrey Shoffstal, bringing him into full communion with the Catholic Church. Watch a video of the Mass here. (Photos and video by Sarah Webb)

  • Bishop Fitzgerald celebrates the Liturgy of the Eucharist during Mass, with Father Eckert concelebrating and Deacon Leonard assisting.

  • Cantor Abby Merk sings Allelujah.

  • Bishop Michael Fitzgerald confirms Geoffrey Shoffstal while his sponsor David Seneca lays his hand on Geoffrey’s shoulder at Holy Trinity Parish in Morrisville.

  • Deacon Warren Leonard assists Bishop Michael Fitzgerald as he sprinkles the congregation with holy water.

  • Parishioners listen to the Word of God proclaimed during the Liturgy of the Word during the Mass.

  • Bishop Michael Fitzgerald and Father John Eckert, pastor of Holy Trinity, follows behind the paschal candle and Deacon Leonard in procession.

  • Altar servers Hallie Gallagher and Olivia Dees help participants in the Mass light their candles from the paschal candle, leading the procession in Holy Trinity Church.

  • Father John Eckert, pastor of Holy Trinity, lights the paschal candle that is carried by Deacon Warren Leonard.

  • Bishop Fitzgerald prays the blessing of the paschal candle at the beginning of the Mass.