Easter

Many Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus by going to an Easter vigil.

They light a fire outside the church remembering new life.

The special Easter (Paschal) candle is lit and carried into the darkened church.

The candles of the congregation are lit – the darkness begins to become light.

After this there are readings from the Bible telling the story of the history of the world.

The emphasis is on new life – so this is an appropriate time to celebrate baptisms.

All people tend to renew the promises that were made at their baptisms to believe in God and turn away from sin.

Some churches have an Easter garden to remember the place where Jesus was buried.

Easter eggs are symbols of new life. Chocolate is a symbol of celebration.

The word on the lips of all Christians is ‘alleluia’ – a word of great joy found in many Easter hymns and songs.

Easter is the key day in the Church’s year.

Jesus is risen from the dead and the world has been saved.