Easter 2017: How This Christian Religious Event Is Celebrated Around the World
The Lenten season is drawing to a close, and while it is a time to recollect one's sins and repent, its end is met by frivolity and gratitude. But how do Christians around the world observe this, and do they do it differently?
As a refresher, Easter, also known as Easter Sunday, is considered as one of the most important holidays in the Christian calendar. It commemorates Christ's resurrection from the dead three days after his crucifixion, marking the fulfillment of his promise that he will conquer death so that everyone who follows him may be granted eternal life after earthly demise.
Unlike other Christian holidays, however, Easter Sunday is a moveable holiday, wherein the date varies from one year to another. Just like the name implies, the event is celebrated on a Sunday, which falls sometime between March 22 and April 25.
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While the reason for the celebration is the same everywhere, the way it takes place varies from one place to another. This reflects a place's traditions assimilated to the religious practice, and often takes into consideration what a symbolism means readily to a locale.
Most Christian communities celebrate this event through a prayer vigil. While there are those who do it the night before, there are those who do it in conjunction with the holy mass on the day itself. Either way, it is always commemorated with prayerful gratitude.
There are also some pagan practices that have been transformed to fit the Easter merriment. The Easter egg hunt, for example, has its pagan origins that symbolize fertility, and could somehow be associated with birth and rebirth. Decorating with flowers is also another thing, which is closely related to rebirth, signifying Christ's resurrection.
There are many more practices around the world on how it is celebrated, but one thing remains. It is always a symbol of a promise fulfilled, and everyone takes time to be grateful for it.
