(Child care available)

On Holy Saturday, we are called to remember Jesus’ three days in the tomb. Often, churches start the service outside with a fire. The service will continue in the Sanctuary symbolizing bringing light into the darkness. The Bible readings re-tell the story of God’s love and salvation through all human history (starting with creation). During the service, joyous music and proclaiming “Alleluia” celebrates the end of the season of Lent.

Many churches include a Baptism during the Easter Eve (Vigil) service. In the early church, new Christians spent the season of Lent preparing to be received into the Church as followers of Jesus.

Collect

O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP, 2019)

AND

O God, you made this most holy night to shine with the glory of the Lord’s resurrection: Stir up in your Church that Spirit of adoption which is given to us in Baptism, that we, being renewed both in body and mind, may worship you in sincerity and truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (BCP, 2019)