Easter is considered the Church’s most important feast. Although Christmas is the more popular feast, and a secular holiday as well, Easter celebrates the central truth of our faith as Christians. Jesus’ suffering, dying, and rising from the dead is known as the Paschal mystery. It is this holy mystery of the Risen Lord that is central to our lives as Christians.



Easter is a season of endless joy. By rising from the dead, Jesus conquered death forever. The followers of Jesus believe that death is only a transition into a new and better life with God forever. Life has won the victory! Eternal death has been overcome! There is great reason to celebrate and rejoice!

The Church’s word of joy is Alleluia. During Lent, the Church concentrates instead on the cross of Jesus and on how we can grow in our relationship with the One who gave his life for us. Now Lent has passed and we return Alleluia to our prayers, hymns and liturgy so that the joy of Easter can be expressed and celebrated once again.

Family Activity

	Of all the Easter symbols of new life, the butterfly may be the most common. Talk about how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. You may wish to read a book about caterpillars and butterflies, such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Putnam, 1984).

	•		Connect the idea of the caterpillar and butterfly with our waiting during Lent to be freed on Easter by Jesus’ rising to new life.
	•		Provide art materials, including clothespins, fabric scraps, and pipe cleaners. Together, make butterflies as signs of new life.
	•		Display the butterflies during the Easter season.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.