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.
Blessing of Easter Baskets at St Therese will be held
Saturday, April 4 at Noon
