Beginning in total darkness, the congregation joins the clergy in illuminating the Cathedral by candlelight, as we observe the Paschal mystery—the passage from darkness into light, from death into life—told through scriptural readings and chanted psalms. When the lights of the Cathedral are finally thrown up, all join in ringing in the first moments of Easter, as the Great Organ sounds for the first time since its silencing on Maundy Thursday. The Bishop of New York celebrates, the Dean of the Cathedral preaches, and the Cathedral Choirs sing.

This is the only liturgy of the day.