Vigil

Vigil is a term that refers to a period of purposeful sleeplessness, an occasion for devotional watching, or an observance. The Italian word vigilia has become generalized in this sense and means "eve" (as in on the eve of the war).

Origins

The word vigil comes from the Latin word vigilia meaning wakefulness. It became a term for the evening before a religious festival (a liturgical day starts at sunset) in the early Middle Ages.

Christian Vigils

In Christianity, a vigil is the ritual observance of watchfulness or wakefulness. Christian vigils may be held on the eve of a major liturgical feast, during Holy Week, and at the time of a person's death.

Liturgical Vigils

In the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Communion, and some Lutheran churches, a vigil is a service held on the eve of the celebration of a major feast day. The vigil service includes readings from Scripture, prayers, and possibly a Eucharist.

Easter Vigil

The Easter Vigil, also called the Paschal Vigil or the Great Vigil of Easter, is a service held in traditional Christian churches as the first official celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus. It is held in the hours of darkness between sunset on Holy Saturday and sunrise on Easter Sunday.

Vigil for the Deceased

A vigil for the deceased, also known as a wake, is a vigil held shortly before the body is buried or cremated. It is an opportunity for family and friends to gather in prayer for the deceased.

Secular Vigils

In a secular context, a vigil may refer to any period of watchful attention or observation, often held at night, to mark an event or to protest.

See Also

• Watchnight service
• Night prayer
• Vespers