Holy Saturday

source: www.mb.com.ph

MANILA, Philippines – The third and final day of the Solemn Paschal Triduum (three days) is Holy Saturday.

According to an ancient Christian tradition, this day is spent in holy silence because the Lord Jesus who died on Good Friday is asleep in the flesh. Thus, “silence reigns on earth, a great silence and a great stillness.” Thus, in the Catholic Church, there is no mass today. In the ancient tradition as well, today is still a day of fasting until the Easter Vigil tonight.

The Easter Vigil can be traced back to the Roman times. It is called the “mother of all vigils” in the church because of its primordial character. It is a liturgical service which serves as the official celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Easter Vigil is mainly composed of four major parts, beginning with the Liturgy of the Light. A fire is blessed outside the church and the Paschal Candle is lit, symbolizing Christ Jesus who is the light of the world. The Greek letters “alpha” and “omega” are inscribed at the top and bottom and the four members representing the current year are inscribed above and below the cross arms. Five grains representing the wounds of Christ are sometimes pushed into the soft wax.

This is followed by the Liturgy of the Word. Unlike the usual practice where two to three readings are proclaimed. This is because the Church wants to remind all Christians about the history of salvation. Next is the Liturgy of Baptism. In many churches today, there will be baptism. Easter is a celebration of new life. Hence, baptism is the sacrament that reminds us of our new life in Christ. Last is the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Holy Saturday is an opportunity for us to continue our reflections on God’s great love for us. In silence, let us ponder on how much God loves each one of us by dying on the cross. We also remember the Blessed Virgin Mary who stood by her Son Jesus all the way to the cross on Mount Calvary. May she, who loves her Son so much, inspire us to live the teachings of Jesus.

This holy season does not end with Good Friday. The Paschal Mystery of Christ continues until the Resurrection. Let us prayerfully await the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus our Lord.

source: www.mb.com.ph