Celebrating the Resurrection
We were in the desert with Jesus for 40 days during Lent, praying, fasting and giving alms- all in preparation for the great feast of Easter. This celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection is not limited to one day. The Church, from as early as the third century, has celebrated Easter for a 50 day season, from the Easter Triduum to Pentecost. 50 days is seven weeks, plus one day. That extra day is the “Eighth Day”, the day of Resurrection, the day that symbolizes eternity. It was seen as the beginning of a whole new creation. It may be hard to sustain joy for 50 days straight, but we are meant to experience what it means when we say Christ is risen.
There are many different ways that you can celebrate Easter for 50 days at home, we just have to get creative. In addition to the celebration of Mass and Holy Hours, have special dinners every Sunday. Involve everyone in the meal prep or setting the table with the best dishes, and eat by candlelight (Jesus is the Light of the World!). Remember your loved ones who have passed from this world and now enjoy eternal life with Christ- look through family photos and share stories. Learn about the saints who have gone before us as disciples of Christ and celebrate the feast days of the saints that fall during the Easter Season.
After His Resurrection, the Risen Christ was with his disciples and continued to teach them. On the 40th day, He Ascended into Heaven, and we celebrate this on the 40th day of the Easter Season, Ascension Thursday. On the 50th day of Easter, Pentecost, we celebrate the descent of the helper and advocate that Jesus promised- the Holy Spirit. Pentecost is considered the “birthday” of the Church. Have a birthday party- make a cake, give each other spiritual gifts. By spiritual gifts I mean, share how each person has been a blessing to someone else. What Fruits of the Spirit have you noticed in them?
On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled the Apostles to speak in other languages. A great help considering the call "to go therefore and make disciples of all nations."(Mt. 28:19) Which the Church has done. Go therefore into your kitchen and cook up some some traditional Easter dishes from around the globe and celebrate the unity of the Universal Church! Get creative as you celebrate the 50 days of Easter! |
Below are links to some activities you can do with your children to celebrate the Easter Season.
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