In Panama, Holy Saturday, known as 'Sábado Santo', is a significant occasion. It is part of the traditionally observed Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday. As a predominantly Catholic country, Panama marks the day with a somber atmosphere, reflecting the period of waiting that follows the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and precedes his Resurrection. On Holy Saturday, religious activities are numerous yet subdued, making it a day of prayer and contemplation for many Panamanians.
Holy Saturday usually involves recollections of Biblical events that are believed to take place between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. While the somber mood of Good Friday, the day that commemorates Jesus’ crucifixion, is still sensed on Holy Saturday, there is also an anticipation for the joy of Easter. It is a day of quiet reflection and spiritual preparation for the Easter Vigil which typically takes place after sunset. The Vigil includes the lighting of the Paschal candle, the Service of Light and the renewal of baptismal promises.
In many Panamanian parishes, Holy Saturday services are a significant part of the Easter triduum. Processions are often held, usually featuring a depiction of the Virgin Mary, signifying her sorrow and anticipation. The solemn tone is usually uplifted at the end of the day, as Easter Vigil services at night lead to the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. People stay up late into the night, eagerly awaiting the shift from mourning to joy which is marked on Easter Sunday. It is, in essence, a reminder of the hope that emerges out of the seeming despair and forms an intrinsic part of the Panamanian Easter celebrations.