Pope Francis urged people not to "bury hope" in this year's Easter Saturday vigil.
He carried a lit candle up the main aisle of a darkened St Peter's Basilica during the poignant service.
This was done as part of a procession symbolising Christians' belief that Jesus triumphed over death by resurrection following crucifixion.
At the chant in Latin for "light of Christ", the basilica's lights were suddenly switched on and Pope Francis then reached the central altar to celebrate Easter vigil mass.
During the service, he encouraged people to resist cynicism or pursuing the "glitter of wealth".
He also said to avoid seeking life's meaning in "things that pass away".
"Do not bury hope," Pope Francis said.
He noted that when things go badly "we lose heart and come to believe that death is stronger than life".
After this, he warned: "We become cynical, negative and despondent.
"Sin seduces; it promises things easy and quick, prosperity and success, but leaves behind only solitude and death.
"Sin is looking for life among the dead, for the meaning of life in things that pass away.
"Why not prefer Jesus, the true light, to the glitter of wealth, career, pride and pleasure?"
Among those attending the service were eight people being baptised by the Pope.
These were from Italy, Albania, Ecuador, Indonesia and Peru, according to the Vatican.
On Sunday, Francis will celebrate Easter Mass in St Peter's Square.
He will also give a speech from the basilica balcony.
