What a beautiful collection of Pisanki, not mine!
Easter traditions abound in my area. Yesterday I heard of a "Poll" conducted by an organization that questioned what area of the country had the most solid and diverse Easter traditions. Everything from food, to family habits, to religious observance, and long-term strength of these traditions was included. Guess what? Pittsburgh was #1 in the country! I know, how cool is that?
In many churches here the Easter Basket is traditional. It's presentation on the Saturday before Easter Sunday, where the baskets are presented and laid at the foot of the church alter and then blessed by the priest in a happy and momentous service. The basics vary a bit from family to family and there are some links back to the Passover in its content. Many years ago I shared this little diagram, I though I would present it again. The turmoil of our lives coming out of the pandemic, the fears of restrictions returning, the Ukranian-Russian war, the violence, and uncertainty that we now experience has drawn many of us to return to what we know, what we have shared in better times, as well as a comfort only found in our faith.
As Holy Week is upon us I want to wish everyone a Happy Easter. I will be busy for the next few days and I am sure others will be as well. Enjoy this time with family and friends. May your Easter be blessed and happy and bring you the Peace and Joy that we all seek.
Maslo (Butter) - This dairy product is often
shaped into a lamb (Baranek Wielkanocny) or a cross. This reminds us of
the good will of Christ that we should have towards all things.Babka (Easter Bread) - A round or long loaf topped with a cross or a fish, symbolic of Jesus, who is the Bread of Life.
Chrzan (Horseradish) - Symbolic of the Passion of Christ still in our minds.
Jajka (Eggs) and Pisanki (decorated with symbols of Easter, of life, of prosperity) - Indicates new life and Christ's Resurrection from the tomb.
Kielbasa (Sausage) - A sausage product, symbolic of God's favor and generosity.
Szynka (Ham) - Symbolic of great joy and abundance. Some prefer lamb or veal. The lamb also reminds Christians that the Risen Christ is the "Lamb of God."
Slonina (Smoked Bacon) - A symbol of the overabundance of God's mercy and generosity.
Sol (Salt) - A necessary element in our physical life. Symbolic of prosperity and justice and to remind us that people are the flavor of the earth.
Ser (Cheese) - Symbolic of the moderation Christians should have at all times.
Candle-represents Christ as the Light of the World.
Colorful Ribbons and Sprigs of Greenery-are attached to the basket as signs of joy and new life in the season of Spring and in celebration of the Resurrection.
Linen Cover - drawn over the top of the basket which is ready for the priest's visit to the home or the trip to church where it is joined with the baskets of others to await the blessing. The food is then set aside and enjoyed on Easter Sunday.
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