Vigil

A Vigil is a period of watchful attention or staying awake, often during the night, to keep watch, pray, or mourn. It can be a solemn occasion where people gather to remember someone or something, or to express solidarity or protest. The duration varies, ranging from a few hours to several days, and may involve silent reflection, speeches, candles, or other symbolic acts. The purpose is typically to show respect, provide comfort, or draw attention to a cause. It is often associated with mourning the dead, protesting an injustice, or awaiting an important event.

Vigil meaning with examples

• The community held a candlelit Vigil outside the hospital, praying for the recovery of the injured children. Families and friends gathered to offer support and show their shared grief after the accident. Prayers and silent moments punctuated the night as they waited for news.
• Following the tragic events, a 24-hour Vigil was organized in the town square, with people taking shifts to keep watch and show their solidarity. Residents came together to provide comfort and show their grief through collective sorrow and support for the victims' families.
• Protesters maintained a continuous Vigil outside the government building, demanding changes to the current policy. They held signs, sang songs, and made speeches, seeking to raise awareness and influence public opinion in pursuit of legislative improvements.
• As the election results were being announced, supporters of both candidates staged vigils to await the outcomes. Both sides waited with bated breath, experiencing moments of heightened anticipation, hoping for the best from the results of the voting
• Before the launch of the rocket, mission control held a silent Vigil to pay respect to all the past astronauts and to prepare for the safe launch. They hoped for a safe and successful space flight to achieve their goals.