This custom is practiced mainly among the Polish people. The main foods blessed are an egg, which is broken and shared by all on Easter Sunday morning, and a lamb molded of butter or pastry. These food items have a place of honor on the festive Easter table.
- Butter: This dairy product is often shaped into a lamb, reminding us of the goodness of Christ that we should have toward all things.
- Easter bread: A round rye loaf topped with a cross symbolizes Jesus, the Bread of Life.
- Horseradish: Symbolizes the Passion of Christ still in our minds (but sweetened with some sugar because of the Resurrection).
- Eggs and pisanki: Indicate new life and Christ’s Resurrection from the Tomb.
- Sausage: A spicy sausage of pork products is indicative of God’s favor and generosity.
- Ham: Symbolic of great joy and abundance.
- Smoked bacon: A symbol of the overabundance of God’s mercy and generosity.
- Salt: So necessary in our physical lives that Jesus used its symbolism: “You are the salt of the earth.”
- Cheese: Shaped into a ball, it is the symbol of the moderation Christians should have.
- Holy water: Holy water is used to bless the home, animals, and fields and is used in religious rituals throughout the year.
- A candle, often marked like the Paschal Candle lit during the Easter Vigil, is inserted into the basket to represent Christ, the Light of the World.
- A colorful ribbon and (sometimes) sprigs of greenery are attached. A linen cover is drawn over the top, and the basket is then ready for the blessing.
The blessing of Easter Baskets at St. Therese will take place at noon on Holy Saturday (Apr. 19).
