As Holy Saturday approaches on April 19, 2025, many Catholics are grappling with a question that arises each year: Is fasting and abstaining from meat required on this day? The answer may surprise many.
Easter stands as the most significant holiday in the liturgical calendar, with its preceding days holding special meaning for the faithful. The Great Week culminates in the Paschal Triduum, which starts on Holy Thursday and lasts until the Easter Vigil. However, when it comes to Holy Saturday, the Church's guidelines clarify that strict fasting is not mandatory.
According to the Code of Canon Law (Can. 1251–1252), the obligation to fast applies only on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. On these days, Catholics must abstain from meat and limit their meals. Holy Saturday does not carry this requirement. While the Church does not mandate fasting on Holy Saturday, it encourages moderation, especially until the start of the Paschal Vigil, which marks the liturgical beginning of Easter Sunday.
Holy Saturday is also a day of silence and reflection. It commemorates the sorrow and uncertainty experienced by Jesus’ disciples following His death. This day is particularly significant for the presence of Mary, who remained steadfast in her faith.
The tradition of blessing food on Holy Saturday is another important aspect of the day. Items such as eggs, bread, meat, and salt are blessed, each carrying its own symbolism. In many parishes, the faithful also visit the Tomb of Christ, which, as in previous years, attracts visitors not only for prayer but also for its unique decorations.
Father Marek Sawicki, a well-known academic pastor, explains that the tradition of extending fasting to Holy Saturday is symbolic. He states, “We do not overindulge or eat meat on Good Friday. On Holy Saturday, it is a matter of personal choice.” This sentiment echoes the findings of the Second Polish Plenary Synod, which clarifies that:
- Abstinence from meat on Holy Saturday is not obligatory.
- Eating meat on this day is not considered a sin.
- Maintaining the fast is rooted in tradition rather than canonical law.
Despite the allowance for eating meat, many Polish Catholics continue the custom of prolonged fasting as a sign of respect for this sacred time. It’s important to note that the blessing of food does not signify the end of the fast. Liturgically, the celebration of the Resurrection of the Lord begins only after the Paschal Vigil.
Many priests recommend that parishioners wait to eat meat until Easter Sunday breakfast. This practice is not a requirement, but rather a personal decision that each believer can make. The essence of the Paschal Triduum lies in spiritual preparation for the holiday, rather than merely adhering to dietary rules.
In summary, while eating meat on Holy Saturday is permissible, the Church distinguishes between tradition and obligation, allowing individuals the freedom to choose how they observe this significant day. As Holy Saturday approaches, many are left to ponder their own practices: Do you wait until the Easter breakfast to enjoy meat, or do you celebrate early? Share your thoughts!
