What Is Easter?

The Catholic Easter season is the most joyful and central time in the Church’s liturgical year, celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and His victory over sin and death. It begins with the Easter Vigil, a powerful and symbolic liturgy held on Holy Saturday night, where darkness gives way to light as the Paschal candle is lit and the faithful proclaim “Alleluia” once again. This moment marks the turning point of the entire Church year—Christ is risen, and hope is restored to the world.

Easter is not just a single day but a full season of fifty days, extending from Easter Sunday to Pentecost. During this time, the Church remains in a spirit of celebration and renewal. The liturgy is marked by white and gold vestments, joyful music, and the repeated proclamation of the Resurrection in Scripture readings. The Gloria and Alleluia, absent during Lent, return with fullness, emphasizing the triumph and joy of Christ’s victory.

Spiritually, the Easter season invites Catholics to live as “Easter people,” embracing new life in Christ. It is a time to reflect on the meaning of baptism, as many new members are welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil. The faithful are encouraged to deepen their relationship with Christ, carry the light of the Resurrection into daily life, and be witnesses of hope, joy, and renewal in their families and communities.

The season culminates in the celebration of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descends upon the apostles, empowering them to go forth and proclaim the Gospel. In this way, Easter is not only about Christ rising from the dead, but also about the Church being sent into the world—renewed, strengthened, and filled with the life of the Spirit.

Explore the Communion of Saints

There is a wonderful harmony between the mystery of Christ and the celebration of the Saints. Easter is a great time to explore the lives of the saints on their feast days. As we follow the saints feast days and share their stories with our families and friends, we can find significance in their lives that can be related to our own.