The Solemn Collects date back to the 4th century and are an early form of the Prayers of the People. Holy Saturday was once a day of fasting in preparation for the Great Vigil of Easter and for baptism. No Eucharist is celebrated, but the Prayer Book provides for the reading of the Passion and an anthem from the Burial of the Dead. The Great Vigil lasted in the early church from sundown Saturday until cockcrow on Sunday. As the rising Easter sun lights our stained glass and Easter flowers we ring bells, and glorious Easter begins.
Processionals are an ancient practice, both religious and secular.
Foot washing was included in the earliest Roman liturgies. At this time the holy oils and elements were consecrated for use at all the Easter services. At early Great Vigils communicants received water, milk, and honey as well as bread and wine to symbolize how we have always been fed by God. The custom of white garments for the newly baptized began with the Great Vigil. St. George s Episcopal Church , Arlington, Virginia.