The order of procession begins with the thurifer with smoking thurible, preceding the minister holding the candle, followed by the ministers and the priest and the people. All parishioners hold unlit candles (EV, no.15). Just as the children of Israel were guided at night by the pillar of fire, so Christians follow the risen Christ.
The places at which the proclamation, Light of Christ, are sung now from different points. The designated points being: at the door of the Church (after which the priest lights his candle), in the middle of the Church (after which all light their candles), and before the altar, facing the people. At each stopping point the assembly lights their unlit candles from the flame of the paschal candle. Thus participating in the sharing of the Light of Christ.