One of the special features of the Easter Octave is the inclusion of a special sequence that is either sung or said during these eight days of jubilation following Easter Sunday.
The Church extends Easter for eight days to emphasize how important it is and to reiterate the point that Jesus has risen. It is a joyous time in the Church's life and can not be limited to a single day of celebration.
The Easter Sequence is known in Latin as Victimae paschali laudes and in English as "Christians, to the Paschal Victim."
This sequence, or special hymn, dates back to at least the 11th century and has been used during the Easter Masses ever since.
It is typically sung during the Liturgy of the Word at Mass, often following the readings before the recitation of the Gospel by the priest or deacon.
If you are looking for a brief text to meditate on during the Easter Octave, spend a few minutes reflecting on this ancient piece of Christian poetry.
Easter Sequence
Christians, to the Paschal Victim
offer sacrifice and praise.The sheep are ransomed by the Lamb;
and Christ, the undefiled,
hath sinners to his Father reconciled.Death with life contended: combat strangely ended!
Life's own Champion, slain, yet lives to reign.Tell us, Mary: say
what thou didst see upon the way.The tomb the Living did enclose;
I saw Christ's glory as He rose!The angels there attesting;
shroud with grave-clothes resting.Christ, my hope, has risen:
He goes before you into Galilee.That Christ is truly risen
from the dead we know.
Victorious King, Thy mercy show!
Amen. Alleluia.
