Holy Saturday
On this day, we gather in silence. All rise when the Presider does.
Collect
Presider Let us pray.
O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
All are seated.
First Reading
Psalm 31:1-5, 16
Job 14:1-14
Second Reading 1 Peter 4:1-8
Tract Sung by the Community Psalm 130
Gospel John 19:38-42 All stand for the Gospel. On this day, the customary responses are omitted.
A Reading from an Ancient Homily for Holy Saturday
Anthem Sung by the Community
In the midst of life we are in death; of whom may we seek for succour, but of you O Lord, who for our offences are justly displeased: Yet, O God most holy, O holy and mighty, O holy and merciful Savior, give us not over to bitter death.
Cast us not away in the time of age: Forsake us not, O Lord, when our strength fail us. Yet, O God most holy, O holy and mighty, O holy and merciful Savior, give us not over to bitter death.
The Lord’s Prayer Said by All
Our Father in heaven hallowed be your Name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil.
The Grace
Shut not your gracious ear to our petitions.
O holy and mighty, O holy and merciful Savior, give us not over to bitter death.
You know all the secrets of the heart, Spare us, your sinful people.
O holy and merciful Savior, give us not over to bitter death.