The Easter Vigil Mass typically lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours when celebrated in its full form. This extended duration is due to several unique elements that distinguish it from a regular Sunday Mass:
- The Vigil begins in darkness with the Service of Light, including the blessing and procession of the Paschal candle.
- It features an extended Liturgy of the Word with up to nine Old Testament readings, each often followed by a sung Psalm response.
- The Mass includes the baptism, confirmation, and first communion of catechumens, which adds significant time.
- The celebration also involves the Easter Proclamation (Exsultet), a homily, and the full Liturgy of the Eucharist
In some cases, shorter versions may last about 1 to 1.5 hours, especially if fewer readings or sacraments are involved, but the traditional and complete Easter Vigil is notably longer than typical Masses, reflecting its importance as the most solemn liturgy of the year
