COME TO CHURCH THIS EASTER Returning Easter back to its traditions

IN RECENT times commercialisation has lead many to view Easter as simply a time for chocolate, a day off work (or a couple of weeks off school) and a nice opportunity to enjoy the new spring sunshine.

But there is much more to this religious holiday then what you see in the chocolate commercials. A return to a more traditional celebration of Easter can be an enlightening and uplifting experience for the whole family.

Churches the length and breadth of the country will be holding events to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, bringing families and communities together at this high point in the Christian calendar.

This public holiday means that the nation takes a long weekend to indulge in the rich history and traditional customs associated with the event. This could include enjoying a roast lamb, as eaten by Jesus at the last supper, and a perfect way to break the things we have sacrificed over the long Lent period. of Jesus after his crucifixion, it is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus.

Christians believe Jesus was crucified on Good Friday and rose again three days later. The three days are known as the Easter Triduum.

The Easter season begins on Ash Wednesday – the first day of Lent.

Lent lasts 40 days – if you leave out the six Sundays in between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday – and is a time when Christians fast, or give up a particular food or vice. The fasting period is to remember when Jesus went into the wilderness and fasted for 40 days.

Ash Wednesday takes place after Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day, when rich foods like eggs are used up before Lent and the fasting period begins.

The Easter week, also known as Holy Week, includes Maundy Thursday, which marks the Last Supper Jesus had with his 12 disciples.

The bible tells of the crown of thorns pushed upon his head, the nails driven through his hands and feet, and the cross he was nailed to in his dying moments – a strong symbol in churches across the country.

This is typically a sombre and reflective day in churches, where people gather to mourn Jesus. There is often a meditative atmosphere focused around Jesus’ last seven words: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

Holy Saturday follows this. Although many people do not celebrate this day, there are services in the area where you can take part in an Easter light celebration. On this day, the Easter candle is lit while the rest of the church remains in darkness, symbolising the darkness of Jesus’ tomb and the light he brought upon his resurrection.

Easter Sunday is the most significant day in the Christian calendar, and is a day filled with joy and celebration.

According to the bible, this is the day Jesus was resurrected, implying death is not the end of our journey.

Churches are filled with flowers and the sounds of hymns and songs, as well as bells ringing.

Many will host sunrise services, including a trip up to the beautiful Castle Hill.

The service is considered to be joyous in comparison to the mourning of the previous days.

The celebrations continue all day in the area, with most churches hosting a Eucharist or Communion, breaking the bread symbolising Jesus’ body, and drinking the wine symbolising his blood.

No matter what your religion, churches welcome all and are filled with joy and wonder during the Easter period.

Churches in Huddersfield and the surrounding areas will all be commemorating this special time, so consider visiting one of them this year to make it an Easter to remember.