April 14, 2001

We took in a late morning at our hotel (check-out was later than usual because of Passover) before heading out for a lazy lie at the sea. There's a nip in the air today, a little colder than we were hoping for on our day at the beach. But that disappointment was soon wiped out by a nearby Thai food restaurant (ah, how we miss the ol' crib in Chicago with easy access to Pad Thai).

A single candle lights the sanctuary.

Marthame stands with Fr. Louis at the altar.

A simple choir at the Latin Church.

We returned to Zababdeh for "Sabt in-Nour" - Saturday of Light, the Easter vigil of Holy Saturday. The service began at 8:00 in darkness as the simple light of a candle entered the sanctuary. The place was absolutely packed to the rafters. There was again a great deal of singing, both of Scripture and of hymns. Scripture passages were read in the style of a vigil, beginning with Genesis, recounting the whole story of redemption through the Revelation.

At the end of the service, everyone gathered outside to wish each other Happy Easter. Because of the Intifada, the post-vigil celebrations were a bit more subdued than in years past, we were told. But that didn't stop plenty of fireworks and chocolate and Easter eggs from being shared. This nighttime vigil was much like the Christmas Eve services we are used to, which end at midnight with a "Merry Christmas." Christ is Risen.