Slovaks Venerate Fire on White Saturday

Bratislava, April 19 (TASR) - For Catholics, White Saturday symbolises the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is one of the most significant holidays. In Catholic churches all over Slovakia, celebrations on the eve of Easter Sunday begin after dusk. Holy liturgies begin with the blessing of fire and the Easter candle Pascal, which symbolises the resurrection of Jesus. This is followed by a reading from the Old Testament accompanied by organ music and bells which remind the faithful of the history since the creation of the world until the arrival of Christ. A consecration of the baptismal water, and the renewal of Christian pledges are also part of the celebrations on White Saturday. Subsequently, the ceremonies continue with holy masses and Easter songs. At the end of the masses, the celebration of the resurrection begins. The celebrations recommence on Easter Sunday when ceremonial holy masses are served in all Catholic churches. The believers highlight the role of Jesus Christ as the One True Saviour, who opened the door of eternal life to people. In some Catholic churches, adults are also baptised on the eve of Easter Sunday. A very important clerical ceremony was the untying of the bell and its first ringing. This act was connected with many various customs. Fire had a very important role. An open fire was set in all households, and Easter dishes were prepared on it. This custom meant the need for new vitality at the beginning of the agricultural year. Fire also had an integral function vis-a-vis clerical ceremonies through Judas' burning, or Judas' bonfire, on White Saturday. Fire was set in front of the church and was sanctified by the priest. The burnt coal and ash had magical power, so people put them together with flax and hemp into the fields, or put them in the attic to protect the house against fire. During White Saturday, there were also customs connected with agriculture and health and house protection. A rich harvest was ensured by shaking the fruit trees, people washed themselves in streams to be healthy all year, and sweeping the whole house protected against insects. The first ringing of the bell on white Saturday was connected with love's magic, and girls painted eggs and boys wove whips. Regarding the preparation of meals, White Saturday was a special day, as meals prepared for Easter Sunday ham, eggs, lamb, and cakes started to be prepared. Fried rolls with poppy or sheep's cheese and sauerkraut soup were eaten on White Saturday. mf