Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday History

Holy Saturday, also known as the Great Sabbath or Black Saturday, commemorates the day when Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after his crucifixion. It is a time for reflection and solemnity, marking the end of Holy Week and preceding the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday. On this day, Christians around the world participate in rituals and traditions that acknowledge the sacrifice of Christ and prepare themselves spiritually for his resurrection.

In South Africa, Holy Saturday is observed by Christians belonging to various denominations, including the Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, and Orthodox traditions. The day is considered one of the oldest in the Christian calendar, with roots dating back to early Christianity. Historical records from the second century reveal that believers in Jerusalem would spend the day fasting and praying in anticipation of Christ's resurrection. In today's South Africa, these ancient traditions have adapted to the cultural context of the country, merging with the diverse practices of its people.

Many churches in South Africa hold special Holy Saturday services that focus on silent meditation, scripture readings, and prayers. During this time, the altar remains bare, with no candles lit, symbolizing the darkness that covered the world at the moment of Christ's death. In some communities, it is a day of strict fasting and reflection. Across the country, Christians continue to pass down traditions rooted in their culture, such as attending Easter Vigil services, which take place on the night of Holy Saturday. These Vigils often feature heartfelt hymns, prayers, and the lighting of candles as a symbol of Christ's light overcoming the darkness. Holy Saturday is observed annually, falling on the day before Easter Sunday and the Saturday after Good Friday.

Top facts about Holy Saturday

• Easter celebrations are linked to the lunar calendar. We now celebrate Easter on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox (March 21).
• Easter Saturday is the final day of Holy week, which includes Good Friday and Maundy Thursday. It is also the final day of Lenten fasting.
• For many South African Christians, Holy Saturday offers an opportunity to rest and reflect after the somber observances of Good Friday and before the celebrations of Easter Sunday.
• South African Anglicans celebrate Holy Saturday with a traditional liturgy called the Easter Vigil. This service is held at sunset after Holy Saturday, bridging the gap between Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Holy Saturday

Top things to do for Holy Saturday in South Africa

• Take a moment and reflect upon what Jesus' resurrection means to you and to the world as a whole. More than one billion people on the planet believe in his resurrection, without it, Christianity would not be a dominant religion today.
• Light a Paschal candle. These white candles are symbols of Jesus' presence and his guidance out of the dark.
• Some churches hold special Easter Vigil services on Holy Saturday evening. These services typically begin after sunset and continue until the early hours of Easter Sunday.
• Holy Saturday is often seen as a time for family gatherings and spending quality time together. Many South Africans use this day to visit relatives, have meals together, or engage in leisure activities.