By Kathy Bolano, Communications Intern
Easter Sunday is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is the heart of all major branches of the Christian faith. It is the culmination of Lent and Holy Week and for Christians, the resurrection establishes that Jesus is the Son of God and it is through his death that he has saved mankind from the bondage of sin.
After the death of Jesus on Good Friday, it is said that the faithful women went to visit Jesus’ tomb on the third day and found it empty. According to Christian traditions, Jesus was seen by his followers and proclaimed his rise from death and seat at the right hand of his father in heaven. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus charged his disciples with the Great Commission: “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” After this, it is said that Jesus ascended into heaven, body and soul.
In the New Testament, “Jesus was put to death for our trespasses and raised for our justification” (Romans 4:25). This belief is the foundation of all Christianity. Without the resurrection of Jesus, there is no Christianity. It is the story of death and rebirth not only for Jesus, but also his followers who were given eternal life with God after death.
Today, Easter is celebrated in many ways around the world. From going to one of the most attended masses or family feasts to Easter egg hunts and visits from the Easter Bunny, and the Niagara Foundation would like to celebrate this joyous occasion. Happy Easter!
[Image via Flickr]