Orthodox Easter in Canada ― Date, History, and Details
Orthodox Easter in Canada may be something you want to learn more about, and we want to help with that.
Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Orthodox Easter in Canada and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Orthodox Easter in Canada and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Orthodox Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The holiday is also known as Pascha, Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday. Orthodox Christians believe that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. The holiday is celebrated on the first Sunday after the full moon following the vernal equinox. In Canada, Orthodox Easter is usually celebrated in April.
The holiday begins with a 40-day period of fasting and prayer known as Lent. During Lent, Orthodox Christians refrain from eating certain foods and participating in certain activities. On Holy Thursday, the day before Good Friday, Orthodox Christians attend a special service called the Passion Service. This service commemorates the Last Supper and the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot.
On Good Friday, Orthodox Christians attend a service called the Royal Hours. This service includes readings from the Gospels and prayers for the dead. On Holy Saturday, Orthodox Christians attend a service called the Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil the Great. This service includes the reading of the Gospel of Matthew.
On Easter Sunday, Orthodox Christians attend the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. This service includes the recitation of the Nicene Creed and the sharing of Communion. After the service, Orthodox Christians celebrate with a feast that includes traditional Easter foods such as lamb, eggs and kulich (a type of Easter bread).