Living Like a Local Newsletter Volume 6

Volume 6: Easter

This Sunday is the Christian holiday, Easter. While many countries around the world celebrate some form or another of Easter, here in the United States we have made it into a particularly commercial holiday that involves candy and the Easter bunny and egg hunts. But before we get into American traditions, let’s look back at Easter’s roots.

Easter originated as a pagan celebration of the spring equinox. In about the 2^nd Century, it became a central Christian holiday which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ 3 days after he was crucified and died on the cross. Easter marks the last day of the Holy Week, which consists of several days that each carry their own significance. These include:

· Palm Sunday: commemorating when Jesus entered Jerusalem

· Holy Thursday: commemorating the Last Supper and washing of feet

· Good Friday: commemorating Jesus' crucifixion and death

· Easter Sunday: commemorating the resurrection of Jesus

Beyond religious rituals, commercial celebrations of Easter include the symbols of the eggs, chicks, candy and, of course, the Easter Bunny. The bunnies, chicks and eggs are signs new life and fertility around the spring time.

Easter is celebrated in many ways around the world but in the US, most Christians attend church services on Easter morning. In fact Maryville College is hosting one on campus at sunrise! (see below for more information)

American children anticipate that a giant Easter bunny will sneak into their houses at night to fill up their Easter baskets with candy and treats and then hide colorful eggs for them to find. When you stop and think about it, it’s a little strange to tell children a giant bunny will be sneaking around in their house while they sleep but most holiday traditions have some strange elements to them.

< These guys! >

Families typically gather for brunch and/or a large Easter dinner. The menu generally consists of ham or lamb, potatoes, spring vegetables, rolls and desserts.

In my house we go out for brunch and then have friends over later in the day for a potluck or to play games or sit outside. And yes, even though my daughter is 16 the Easter bunny still comes and fills up her basket and hides eggs for her to find. Although now she likes to also hide them for me to find.

I hope you find some joy in celebrating spring or Easter this weekend either in the American way or with the traditions from your home country. Happy Easter

DID YOU KNOW?

That Maryville College is having a sunrise Easter service? I can attest that sunrise services are very powerful, so I encourage you to drag yourself out of bed and attend.

https://www.maryvillecollege.edu/news/2024/maryville-college-easter-sunrise-service-set-for-7-a-m-march-31/