Holy Saturday

**Holy Saturday in Chile** Holy Saturday, known as *Sábado Santo* in Spanish, is a significant day in the Christian calendar, marking the final day of Holy Week and the day before Easter Sunday. In Chile, a predominantly Catholic country, Holy Saturday is observed with a mix of religious traditions and cultural practices. It is a day of reflection and anticipation, as it commemorates the time when Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after his crucifixion on Good Friday. In many Chilean communities, religious services are held, including the *Vigilia Pascual* (Easter Vigil), which takes place after sunset. This solemn yet hopeful ceremony includes the blessing of the Easter fire, the lighting of the Paschal candle, and readings from the Bible that recount the story of salvation. The vigil culminates in the celebration of the Resurrection, symbolizing the transition from darkness to light. Families often spend Holy Saturday preparing for Easter Sunday, which is a more festive occasion. Traditional foods, such as *empanadas de vigilia* (fish-filled empanadas) and *bacalao* (salted cod), are prepared, and homes are decorated in anticipation of the Easter celebration. While Holy Saturday is a quieter day compared to the somber Good Friday or the joyous Easter Sunday, it holds deep spiritual significance for many Chileans, serving as a bridge between mourning and celebration.