Easter, which is also known as Resurrection Day, is one of the most important festivals of Christians all over the world. Easter celebrates Jesus Christ's resurrection which happened on the third day of his crucification.
Easter, which is not celebrated on a fixed date every year, is observed on a Sunday between March and April according to Western Christianity while Eastern Christianity observes it between April and May. The date of Easter is decided by Lunar Calendar and not Gregorian or Julian calendar.
Western Christians begin the festivities from Saturday night by lighting a large candle, which symbolizes the resurrection of the Christ. Then Easter Proclamation is chanted which is followed by readings of Old Testament and singing the proclamation of Gospel of Resurrection. The service concludes with a sermon. On the day of Easter, festive elements like special flower decorations and festive music is included into the usual Sunday service.
Eastern Christians start the festivities with "anti-celebration of Great Lent" in which they observe fast, give alms to the poor and pray. They reduce non-essential activities and entertainment till Great Friday. On Holy Saturday or the day before Easter, all lights are put off at 2300 hours. A new candle or flame is lit which is then used to light candles in the hands of the devotees.
After all the candles are lit, the priest takes out a procession along with all the devotees, holding the candles in their hand. The procession re-enters the church at 0000 hours. Matins start which is followed by Paschal Hours and Divine Liturgy. Then a grand feast is held for all the members of the congregation.
On Easter day, a part of Gospel of John is read by the priest and devotees in different languages.
Easter eggs are a prominent part of the traditions associated with the festival. In the United States, Australia and some parts of UK, Easter eggs are decorated by children and adults, which are later hidden in the house by adults on Holy Saturday. Children have to find all the Easter eggs on the Easter after which they are given Easter breakfast containing gifts and treats for them.
Holy Saturday is the day preceding Easter. Anglicans call it Easter Eve or Low Saturday, Filipinos call it Black Saturday while Christians in Czech Republic and Slovakia call it White Saturday may be because those who are baptized wear white garments.
Mass is neither held on Holy Saturday or the day before i.e. Good Friday. Altars in most of the churches on this day are colored black. Holy Saturday is observed till dusk. After the dusk, the celebrations for the festival of Easter begin in all the churches which go till late in the night. |
