Easter in Greece
Orthodox Easter, also known as Pasxa, is the most important religious celebration in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is celebrated with a rich array of traditions and rituals that vary by country and region.
- Date: Orthodox Easter is often celebrated on a different date than Western Easter because the Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. It typically falls one or more weeks later than the Easter celebrated in Western Christianity.
- Holy Week: The week leading up to Pascha, called Holy Week, is filled with services and rituals. Each day has its significance, with Good Friday commemorating the crucifixion and Holy Saturday preparing for the Resurrection.
- Midnight Service: On Holy Saturday, believers attend a midnight service. As the clock strikes midnight, the church bells ring, and the priest proclaims Christ’s resurrection. The congregation responds joyously, and many light candles to symbolize the light of Christ overcoming darkness.
- Festive Meal: After the midnight service, it’s common to break the Lenten fast with a celebratory meal that often includes dishes like lamb, red-dyed eggs, and traditional breads.
- Red Eggs: The tradition of dyeing eggs red symbolizes the blood of Christ. The eggs are often used in games, where participants try to crack each other’s eggs.
- Celebratory Atmosphere: The days following Easter are filled with festivities, including family gatherings, community events, and feasting.
- Cultural Variations: Different countries have unique customs. For example, in Greece, you’ll find lamb roasting
Orthodox Easter is a time of profound joy and celebration, marking the triumph of life over death and the promise of salvation. It’s a deeply communal event, bringing together families and communities in festive unity.