Holy Saturday commemorates Christ’s burial and his triumphant descent into hell or “to the dead.” Typically no services take place during the day. However, many Eastern and Western churches hold the Easter Vigil—the principal Easter service—after sundown on Holy Saturday. The joyous Easter Vigil celebration includes lighting fires and candles, and tolling bells. Many churches also baptize catechumens and confirm (or chrismate) and give first communion to previously baptized converts during this lengthy service. The Easter Vigil is often followed by a late-night feast to welcome new converts and celebrate Easter.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.
Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style