Easter

Easter is the most important Christian festival as it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The story of Easter

Jesus Christ was executed by crucifixion on Good Friday. His body was removed from the cross and buried in a cave the same day. To stop his body being stolen the entrance was blocked by a large stone and placed under guard. However, three days later on the following Sunday, women visiting his tomb found the stone had been rolled away and the cave was empty. There were soon reports of Jesus being seen that day, and for days afterwards, by many people.  Followers of Jesus believed he had been raised from the dead by God.

Easter date

Easter marks the end of Lent, a forty day period of fasting, prayer and penance. The last week of Lent is called Holy week and contains Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Easter day or Easter Sunday falls 3 days later and commemorates the day when Jesus rose from the dead.

Easter is a moveable feast, meaning the date it falls on each year is different. Several other Christian festivals fix their date by Easter.

Easter is also linked to the Jewish Passover (or Pascha) by symbolism and its date.

Easter celebrations

Easter is celebrated across the Christian world where churches are decorated with flowers and there are special hymns and songs. However, not all Easter customs are Christian. Many familiar traditions such as Easter eggs and the Easter bunny have their origins in Pagan festivals.