When Is Greek Orthodox Easter 2024?
Easter Schedules 20202024 Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church from www.stjohn.ny.goarch.org Introduction Greek Orthodox Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in Greece. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. This year, Greek Orthodox Easter falls on April 28, 2024. In this article, we will explore the significance of Greek Orthodox Easter and the customs and traditions associated with it. What is Greek Orthodox Easter? Greek Orthodox Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the culmination of the Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday and ends with Easter Sunday. The Greek Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which is different from the Gregorian calendar used in the Western world. As a result, Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls on a different date than Easter in the Western world. The Customs and Traditions of Greek Orthodox Easter The week leading up to Greek Orthodox Easter is filled with customs and traditions. On Palm Sunday, people go to church and receive palm branches, which are blessed by the priest. On Holy Thursday, people dye eggs red, which symbolizes the blood of Christ. On Good Friday, people attend church services and participate in the procession of the Epitaphios, which is a decorated bier that represents the tomb of Christ. The Resurrection The highlight of Greek Orthodox Easter is the Resurrection. On Saturday night, people attend the Resurrection service, which is held at midnight. During the service, the church is dark, and people hold candles. At midnight, the priest announces the Resurrection, and the church is filled with light and joy. People then greet each other with the traditional greeting "Christos Anesti" (Christ is Risen). Easter Sunday On Easter Sunday, people attend church services and enjoy a festive meal with family and friends. The traditional Easter meal includes lamb, which symbolizes the sacrifice of Christ, and tsoureki, which is a sweet bread decorated with red eggs. Conclusion Greek Orthodox Easter is a beautiful and meaningful holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time of reflection, devotion, and joy. Whether you are Greek Orthodox or not, you can appreciate the customs and traditions associated with this holiday. So mark your calendars for April 28, 2024, and join in the celebration of Greek Orthodox Easter. ...