The tomb is empty. Some years ago, I was on pilgrimage in the Holy Land and visited the tomb in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We do not often visit empty places. Yes, the tomb was empty but I felt the fullness of the presence of Risen Christ. Yes, he is Risen from the dead. Moved by the Holy Spirit, I kissed the altar of the tomb and made an act of faith – Yes, Lord, I believe.

Tonight, we echo the acts of faith of Mary Magdelene and Mary who came to the tomb and also the countless women and men through the ages who have believed. We do not see the dramatic signs but rather the constant faith of the people who gather to celebrate the Vigil and those who have gathered before us. I always find myself remembering my family members who have died as I pray the opening prayer of this night: ‘on this most sacred night in which our Lord Jesus Christ passed over from death to life’. We gather in the hope of the resurrection and the communion of saints.

From the paschal candle, we lit our candles and filled this Cathedral with light and heat. We passed the light from one to another and were reminded of the lights of our baptism candles. We will light our candles again to renew our baptismal promises. This witness of light is a witness to our belief and the promises of God through the ages which we heard in the readings. Jesus our Saviour has offered himself on the cross and is now risen from the dead.

The angel tells the women that the Risen Lord is going before them to Galilee. The Risen Christ returns to the place where Jesus spent most of his ministry, into the local scene, into the ordinary routine of life, and there he will be seen and life will become extraordinary. His divine presence scarred with his five wounds will permeate the ordinary events of life. With eyes of faith the glory of God will be seen in acts of love. The Risen Christ will be worshipped in spirit and truth wherever people gather in his name.  

My dear friends to be baptised, those of you to be received, and those to be confirmed, you have prepared to celebrate the sacraments of initiation and become full members of the Church. As shepherd of the flock entrusted to me, I welcome you in the name of the Lord Jesus.

By baptism, you will become a new creation and clothe yourself in Christ. May your faith shine out in love towards others as you take your place at the altar and receive the Eucharist as part of our family of this Archdiocese. Take to heart the words of the Risen Christ to the women ‘Do not be afraid’.

Through the sacrament of confirmation, you will be anointed by Christ and filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. You are now sent out as members of the Body of Christ to proclaim your faith and serve others with love. As the women were sent to Galilee, so you are sent back into your families, friends, and places of work to live your faith and be witnesses to Christ.

By the mystery of this holy night, may we all be encouraged and strengthened by the light of these Easter candles and the faith of the community which gathers in the name of Christ.

My friends, rejoice and exult for your names are written in the book of life in heaven. May the flame of faith burn brightly as you walk towards God’s kingdom in your white baptismal robes.

May God bless you all; I wish you a very Happy Easter filled with peace and joy.