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Blessing of Food
April 8, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Join Deacon Vic for the Blessing of Easter Food
A European Tradition
Holy Saturday, April 8 at 12 noon
In earlier times meats and dairy products were excluded from the diet during Lent. As the end of the rigorous fast approached, people showed their joy and gratitude by taking their food to church for a blessing on Holy Saturday. They then reserved it for eating after the Easter Mass.
The custom remains widespread in Eastern Europe among Christians of both Eastern and Western rites. Brought to the United States by immigrants, its popularity increased and still has meaning for us today. As we celebrate the Easter feast of new life, we bless the food which sustains our physical body and our whole being. We express our joy and gratitude for the food which nourishes us.
