Happy Easter. – 24 April 2011
Easter Sunday is the most important date in the Christian calendar and commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is preceded by Good Friday, which marks the day upon which Jesus was crucified. Christians believe that Jesus was the son of God, died and was resurrected as a sacrificial offering to God for mankind’s sins, allowing mankind to have a personal relationship with God although imperfect.
Easter is a joyful time for Christians where churches are filled with flowers and special hymns are sung and prayers recited. Easter also marks the end of Lent, 40 days of fasting, prayer and penance representing Jesus’s 40 day fast in the desert. In many Western countries, the festival is celebrated by the giving and eating of chocolate Easter eggs. The date changes each year since the festival is celebrated on the first Sunday following the vernal equinox.
