Passion Sunday
Blessing of Easter Baskets:
The blessing of the Easter food or the “Swieconka” is a tradition dear to the heart of every Pole. Being deeply religious, he is grateful to God for all His gifts of both nature and grace, and, as a token of this gratitude, has the food of his table sanctified with the hope that spring, the season of the Resurrection, will also be blessed by God’s goodness and mercy. The usual fare on the Easter table includes ham and kielbasa, cakes of all kinds – particularly babka; eggs — some shelled or some decorated. There is usually a Paschal Lamb or “Baranek†made of butter, some cheese, horseradish, salt, vinegar and oil.
The food is brought to the church and blessed by the parish priest on Holy Saturday. The food can also be blessed in the home. After the blessing the food is usually set aside until Easter morning when the head of the house shares the blessed egg, symbol of life, with family and friends. Having exchanged wishes, all continue to enjoy a hearty meal.
This centuries old customs is indeed richly symbolic and beautiful. It is one in which the whole family can participate and help prepare.
May this tradition endure for many generations to come. All of you can enjoy this beautiful Polish custom by participating at the blessing of the Easter food “Swieconka” at St. Francis Polish National Catholic Church. This is an excellent way to teach the younger members family about this treasured Polish tradition.
Holy Week schedule at St. Francis Church:
April 5 – Palm Sunday – 9 am Liturgy and distribution of Palms
April 9 – Holy Thursday – 7pm Holy Mass
April 10 – Good Friday – 7pm- Passion Service
April 11 – Holy Saturday – 1pm – Blessing of Easter food, blessing of new fire and holy water.
April 12 – Easter Sunday – 8.30 am – Procession of the Resurrection High Mass – 9am.
