Holy Saturday, also known as the Great Sabbath, Black Saturday, or Easter Eve, is observed in Zambia with great religious fervor. This day commemorates the time that Jesus Christ's body lay in the tomb after his death on the cross on Good Friday, before his resurrection on Easter Sunday. This holy day falls in the Holy Week of Easter and marks the final day of Lent, a forty-day period of fasting, prayers, and penance.
In Zambia, a predominantly Christian country, Holy Saturday is marked by numerous church services and processions. There are also various ceremonies and rituals associated with this holy day. On this day, Zambians participate in late-night vigil masses in churches. The mass usually starts after sunset and continues into the night, concluding with the celebration of the Resurrection. They also prepare for the celebration of Easter Sunday, which marks the end of the Holy Week.
Although Holy Saturday is a somber day, anticipation for the forthcoming joy of Easter is also in the air. Traditionally in Zambia, there are no sacraments performed on Holy Saturday as it is a day of reflection and waiting in faith. For many, it is a time of prayer and contemplation on the mystery of Christ's death and burial, and the power of his Resurrection. There may also be the practice of the Blessing of the New Fire, a liturgical act symbolising the resurrection of Christ, bringing light into the darkness.