HOLY SATURDAY 2008

Holy Saturday (Sabbatum Sanctum) There is deep symbolism upon which we can reflect on Holy Saturday. On this day, the Church waits at the Lord's tomb, and meditates on His Passion and Death and His descent into Hell. With prayer and fasting we await His glorious Easter resurrection. Mary is also a Holy Saturday symbol. According to Catholic tradition, Mary represents the entire body of the Church. As she waited in faith for the victorious triumph of Her Son over death on the first Holy Saturday, so we too wait with Mary on the present Holy Saturday. This faithful and prayerful symbolic waiting has been called the Ora della Madre or Hour of the Mother. The Easter, or Paschal, candle is lit during this service. The service began outside the church, where Fr Eric and Alter Servers, Candle Bearers and Fire Tender gather around a fire from which the NEW flame is lit. During this celebration two Baptisms and two Confirmations took place……………… the beginning of the rest of their lives...forever!