Holy Saturday is the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Saturday of the Holy Week is known by various names such as Holy and Great Saturday, the Great Sabbath, Black Saturday, Joyous Saturday or Easter Even. This year Holy Saturday falls on March 31 and individuals all across the world prepares for Easter. It commemorates the day that Jesus’ body lay in the tomb while his spirit went through the Harrowing of Hell. Holy Saturday is used to remember Jesus’ burial and is a day for solemn reflection. Some performs Easter vigil during the evening waiting for the return of Christ while others may fast.

The practices during Holy Saturday may vary from person to person and church to church, but many people fast and pray in the run-up to Easter. But not everyone knows the significance of Holy Saturday. Why we celebrate Holy Saturday? What happened on this day? How do we commemorate this day? And many more. Here we have the date, significance and history of the Holy and Great Saturday.

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Holy Saturday Date and Time

Unlike the other festivals such as Christmas and Valentines, Holy Saturday does not have any traditional date. It generally falls between March and April. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter Sunday and it began on March 25, 2018. This year Holy Saturday falls on March 31 as devotees all over the world celebrates Jesus’ rebirth.

Holy Saturday Significance and History

Also known as the Easter Vigil, Holy Saturday has a significant history. According to Christianity, on this day, Jesus Christ’s body lay in the tomb while his spirit went through the Harrowing of Hell. Jesus gloriously descended into hell during the time after his crucifixion and before his resurrection. During the evening, churches perfume Easter Vigil. This is the first ceremony of celebrating Easter. It is traditionally a day of quiet meditation and some even observe fast on this day.

Holy Saturday Celebrations

Catholic Encyclopaedia notes, “in the early Church this was the only Saturday on which fasting was permitted.” On this day, the Church strictly abstains Mass and the celebration of marriage is also forbidden. Before Easter Sunday, a morning prayer is highly recommended as well as fasting is encouraged as an act of devotion suited to the mystery celebrated on this day, but not required. As the day ends, individuals gear up to welcome Easter Sunday.

A time of hope and assurance that brings humanity from destruction to salvation and glory. Families gather to celebrate the rebirth of Jesus Christ following Easter brunches which are a lavish affair. So, get ready to indulge in Easter treats!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 26, 2018 04:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).