22 April 2025, Mesilla, New Mexico, Steven Zimmerman – On 19 April 2025, the Basilica of San Albano held its Easter Vigil Mass and welcomed five people into the Catholic Church.

The Vigil Mass began near the Columberiaums, where a fire was lit and blessed. The Easter Candle was lit from that fire. As the parishioners processed into the Basilica, all voices were lifted in song.

As the Very Rev. Christopher Williams paused at several places along the center aisle, parishioners lit their candles from Paschel Candel inside the Basilica.

Before reading the Gospel, the Church was dark in the initial part of the Mass.

During the Mass, three Catechumens were Baptised, Confirmed, and received First Communion. Two other individuals who were Baptised elsewhere were received into the Church, confirmed, and received First Communion.

“Lord Jesus, we thank you for the joy of Easter and the hope it brings. May the celebration of your resurrection continue to inspire us this week and throughout our lives. Help us to remember the profound impact of your sacrifice and to grow in faith and love. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit and live in a way that reflects the beauty and glory of your resurrection. Amen.” 

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Below is an album of photos taken during the Mass: