In Pictures: Easter Celebrated Around the World from Greece to Iraq

Easter, a cornerstone of the Christian faith, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is observed with profound spiritual significance and vibrant cultural traditions across the globe. From the ancient churches of Greece echoing with centuries of liturgical chant to the resilient Christian communities of Iraq holding steadfast to their traditions amidst challenging circumstances, the spirit of Easter unites believers in a shared celebration of hope and renewal. This pictorial journey offers a glimpse into the diverse and deeply personal ways in which Easter is commemorated in various corners of the world.
In Greece, the Orthodox Easter, often falling on a different date than the Western Christian observance, is a time of intense religious devotion and joyful festivity. The Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday is marked by solemn church services, culminating in the Anastasi, the Resurrection Service held late on Saturday night. At the stroke of midnight, churches erupt in candlelight as the priest proclaims "Christos Anesti!" (Christ is risen!), and the faithful respond with "Alithos Anesti!" (Truly He is risen!). The joyous exchange is followed by the lighting of fireworks and the traditional breaking of red-dyed eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ and the new life brought by the resurrection. Easter Sunday itself is a day of feasting, with lamb traditionally roasted on a spit, accompanied by music, dancing, and the warm embrace of family and friends.
Moving eastward, the Christian communities in Iraq, though significantly diminished in recent decades, continue to celebrate Easter with unwavering faith. In churches across the country, special prayers and services are held, often in Aramaic, the language believed to have been spoken by Jesus. Despite the hardships they have faced, Iraqi Christians gather to commemorate the resurrection, finding strength and hope in their shared faith. The celebrations, while perhaps more subdued than in times of peace, are nonetheless deeply meaningful, representing a testament to their enduring spirit and their connection to the ancient roots of Christianity in the region.
Beyond these specific examples, Easter unfolds in a myriad of unique ways across the world. In Italy, the Vatican City in Rome becomes the epicenter of global Catholic celebrations, with the Pope leading solemn masses and delivering his Easter message "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and to the world). In Spain, elaborate processions featuring religious floats and penitents fill the streets, showcasing centuries-old traditions. In Poland, intricately decorated Easter eggs, known as pisanki, are exchanged as symbols of new life. In Ethiopia, the ancient Coptic Orthodox Church observes Easter with vibrant ceremonies and traditional hymns.
In many Western countries, Easter is also associated with secular traditions that have evolved over time. The Easter Bunny, a symbol of fertility and new life, brings chocolate eggs and treats for children. Easter egg hunts are a popular activity, symbolizing the search for the empty tomb of Christ. Springtime, often coinciding with Easter, further enhances the themes of renewal and rebirth, with blooming flowers and warmer weather adding to the festive atmosphere.
The photographs accompanying this narrative capture the essence of these diverse Easter celebrations. Images from Greece might depict the candlelit Anastasi service, the breaking of red eggs, or families gathered around a roasted lamb. Pictures from Iraq could show congregations gathered in prayer, the solemnity of their worship reflecting their resilience. Global perspectives might feature the grandeur of Easter Mass at the Vatican, the colorful processions in Spain, the artistry of Polish pisanki, or the joyful participation in an Easter egg hunt.
Collectively, these visual and textual accounts illustrate the profound significance of Easter as a time of spiritual reflection, communal celebration, and the affirmation of hope. Whether marked by ancient rituals, vibrant cultural expressions, or quiet acts of faith, Easter serves as a unifying force for Christians worldwide, connecting them through the shared belief in the resurrection and the promise of new beginnings. The diverse ways in which Easter is celebrated underscore the universality of the Christian message and its ability to resonate across different cultures and historical contexts, offering a message of peace and renewal to a world often in need of both. The observance of Easter, therefore, is not just a commemoration of a past event but a living testament to the enduring power of faith and the hope it inspires in the hearts of millions around the globe.
Source@BBC