A day of blank, bleak emptiness, as after any death. The drama of the Passion is over, now there is only the waiting. So much of life falls into "Holy Saturday" moments, when nothing very much seems to be happening and hope itself seems dull and unreal. But just as when winter turns to spring, hidden shoots begin to sprout then burst out in a sudden blaze of beauty, so we know that today is not a day of despair. In silence and stillness, earth awaits the Resurrection. Tonight we shall kindle the new fire, listen to the story of our salvation by the light of the paschal candle, join with those reborn in baptism and celebrate the Eucharist with great joy. Out of the darkenss of this night will come the triple Alleluia that heralds Easter gladness.