Today is known as Holy Saturday, Silent Saturday, or according to the Czech custom White Saturday.  What is so important about this day?

 

Before we start, we must look at history.  Like with the rest of Holy Week, there is no known set starting date.  Likely between 1100 and 1200 AD, these practices began.  The main reason, to help teach the common person who could not read or write about Jesus.  I am sure there are more and some not so good reasons, but I tend to like this reason. 

 

Holy Saturday practices begin Friday evening with the burial of Jesus.  According to one’s denomination, fasting, prayer, silence, and the lighting of candles are observed.   The practices end Sunday morning with the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus from the grave.

 

Holy Saturday also marks the end of Lent for all denominations.

 

Again, for those who observe these practices, my prayer is that it brings you closer to the Messiah.

 

The first century church (2nd and 3rd century) did not observe any of these practices.  Their main focus was spreading the Good News and getting ready for the return of Jesus.  Are you ready?