The Reason For the Season: Why Is Easter Celebrated?

Easter is a holiday that is celebrated by Christians to honor and commemorate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This day marks the end of a week-long celebration, which places a strong focus on remembering the trials and triumphs that Jesus faced in his final days (before he was resurrected).

The day of commemoration is typically celebrated on a different date each year, but even though the exact date varies, the holiday is always celebrated on a Sunday. This year the celebration will fall on the 17th of April.

“The story behind Easter, lies in the New Testament of the Bible which narrates how Jesus was arrested by Roman authorities because he claimed to be the “Son of God”. He was then sentenced to death by the Roman emperor, Pontius Pilate, by way of crucifixion. His resurrection three days later marks the occasion of Easter.” (HT Correspondent).

Though the story behind Easter is not necessarily a completely happy one, it is celebrated as a joyous occasion because despite the tragedy of that time, it ultimately ended in Jesus rising from the cave alive on that 3rd day after he was crucified, bringing with his faith and hope.“Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime.” (Martin Luther King).

In the spirit of the season, new life, hope, and renewal, Easter often marks the beginning of Spring, flowers sprout, leaves start to grow back, and color seems to return to the Earth much as Jesus did on the day of his Resurrection. And Christians hold that Jesus’s return signifies eternal life for all of those who believe in him.

“The very first Easter taught us this: that life never ends and love never dies.” (Kate McGahan).