Easter
Easter is literally a celebration of a miracle. In the year 33 AD, on what is now called Good Friday, a man named Jesus Christ was executed and buried by the Roman government. Three days later, on what is now called Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead. For Christians, people who believe Jesus was the Son of God and Messiah, Easter is a celebration of life over death; a time to reflect on Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Easter is broadly celebrated among the Christian communities around the world. Some countries celebrate primarily the religious aspect, but in many other countries, it has become more of a secular celebration. It is one of the most popular holidays celebrated all over the world and especially loved by children.
Easter in Mexico
The holy week leading up to Easter is important in Catholicism. Since the majority of Mexicans are Catholic, Mexico’s celebration lasts the entire week. It begins on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter when Jesus went to the city of Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. Jesus rode a donkey and many people greeted Jesus by laying down cloaks and small tree branches, and reciting Old Testament bible verses. In many towns in Mexico, there is a reenactment of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Woven palm leaves are sold at churches within the towns.
Thursday it is a day of reflection. On that day, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples (his closest followers),attended a seder dinner that would be His Last Supper and was arrested by the Roman police late in the evening in the Garden of Gethsemane. Some traditions include visiting churches to reflect the vigil the apostles kept in the garden, feet washing ceremonies and Mass with Holy Communion.
Good Friday is a (more…)
