The Easter Vigil service has been regarded throughout Christian history as the most sacred service of the Church’s year. It is the climactic moment of the three-day period known as the Holy Triduum.  The service begins after sundown with people gathering outside in the dark. A new fire is kindled (ideally, by a single spark) and then blessed. Then the new Paschal Candle is blessed and lit. This candle is the largest candle in the church and is ornately decorated. It symbolizes the Light of Christ, as well as his unending Resurrection Life. It is the candle which normally stands by the baptismal font, also a symbol of dying and rising with Christ into new and unending life.