Our Easter vigil, though spread over 3 worship services on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday is viewed as one continual service.  

On Maundy Thursday we remember Jesus’ washing of the disciple’s feet, and the institution of the Lord’s Supper – something we remember each Sunday when we celebrate Holy Communion. The colour for Maundy Thursday is white, in recognition that the feast of victory is being celebrated.

On Good Friday we remember the sacrifice of Jesus as He died on the cross for the sins of all. The colour for Good Friday is black – the colour of mourning, and our altar is stripped bare as we reflect on Christ’s suffering and death.

A dramatic contrast occurs on Easter Day, when we celebrate Christ’s resurrection from the dead. The colour for Easter is white, or gold, for victory, glory and majesty. It is a festival day in the church; a great celebration, and is the central focus of the Christian church year. Every Sunday is a mini Easter!

The Easter colours of white or gold continue throughout a 50 day celebration, the season of Easter, which continues through to Pentecost Day.

Excerpt from Lutheran Church of Australia: Commission on Worship. Statement 2. The colours and seasons of the church year.