Introduction of Easter

Easter is one of the most important Christian festivals. It is celebrated world over in areas where Christians live. Christians believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. Christians remember the last week of Jesus’ life at the time of Easter.

Origin of Easter

Initially, Easter was a Pagan festival and was celebrated as non-religious festival. Later in second century, it was regarded as the holy festival.

About the origin of name of Easter, there is belief that Easter got its name from Eostre, the Goddess of Spring. People used to worship Eostre long before the Jesus was born. Long ago, it was believed that sun died in winters and got reborn in spring. In spring, days would lengthen and sun’s energy would return.

While in Europe , Eostre was regarded as the bringer of spring.

When is Easter Celebrated?

Date of celebration of Easter is not fixed as the Christmas which is celebrated on December 25 every year. But it is certain that Easter is celebrated on Sunday only but the date varies from one year to another.

It was decided many years ago by the churches that Easter should always be observed on Sunday following the first full moon after the first day of spring on March 21. Only for this reason, Easter Sunday can fall anytime from March 22 to April 25. Easter is regarded as the movable feast because date of its celebration is not fixed. Date of Easter also varies according to the part of the world you live in.

The Lenten Season

Just prior to Easter Sunday, Lent is the forty-six days period of sacrifices. It starts on Ash Wednesday.

The Easter Bunny

It is an important Easter symbol. It originated in Eastre, the Pagan festival. Rabbit is the earthly symbol of Goddess Eastre.

The Easter Egg

It is centuries old custom to exchange eggs in springtime at Easter. Egg was regarded as the symbol of fertility.