April 4 is Easter. Easter, or Pascha, is the principal festival of the Christian church, which celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his Crucifixion. The earliest recorded observance of an Easter celebration comes from the 2nd century, though the commemoration of Jesus’ Resurrection probably occurred earlier. In the Christian calendar, Easter follows Lent, the period of 40 days (not counting Sundays) before Easter, which traditionally is observed by acts of penance and fasting. Many Christians worldwide celebrate Easter with special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and ringing of church bells. In addition to Easter’s religious significance, people also give each other chocolate Easter eggs and Easter bunnies, with Easter egg hunts taking place in gardens. While this year’s celebrations will be different, we’ll continue to connect safely with loved ones to mark the occasion.
