For Christians, Easter is the most important festival of the church. During this time, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus who died on the cross and rose from the dead.
Parents have many opportunities to establish traditions for their children in remembering this important event. Read the story of the crucifixion, Christ’s death and resurrection in Matthew, chapters 27 and 28. Use some of the following ideas for your family this Easter season:
Handmade crosses
The cross symbolizes the suffering of Jesus when He died at Calvary. Take a nature walk as you tell the story of His death. Help your child make a cross by using a piece of twine and two twigs to form a cross. Place the cross by a bedside table. Encourage them to hold the cross when they pray as a reminder of the anguish Jesus endured for our sins.
Emphasizing freedom
Carolyn Tomlin
During the Easter holiday choose one night for a family celebration of the Passover season. Place a group of lighted candles on a low table. Tell the story of how the Jewish people were freed from being slaves of the Egyptians some four thousand years ago.
Use this time to talk about the joys, yet the responsibilities of freedom we have today. For example, a piggy bank might represent the ability to earn money, yet the responsibility to use it wisely. A sack of groceries might represent the sources of food we enjoy, yet the responsibility to eat healthy food. A television schedule might represent the time we watch TV, yet the responsibility to use our mind and body in a more productive way.
As each person presents his “freedoms” they blow out a candle.
Colored Eggs
Baking with the whole family
The Macedonians were the first Christians known to have used Easter eggs as a symbol of life in Christ.
By the Middle Ages, coloring eggs at Easter had become very popular, with each color having a special meaning.
Red was for the blood of Christ; yellow was for purity; and green was for fruitfulness. Dyeing eggs has always been a time for families to spend time together. As you help your children create these eggs, consider using dye made from different vegetables and herbs as done by many European countries. Red cabbage and carrots produce red, while spinach and artichoke leaves make green. Tones of yellow and brown come from onion skins.
International Easter Customs
In Germany, pretzels appear in the shape of the cross on which Christ died. Russian Christians bake an Easter cake with the letter “X” on top; which stands for, “Christ is risen.” Greek and Spanish cultures serve bread decorated with Easter eggs.
Easter sunrise service
The sunrise service is an important event for religious observances. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania was the first recorded service in America in 1741.
Many churches and communities plan joint worship services on Easter morning. Make this an annual event for your entire family this year.
Teach your children the true meaning of Easter and learn how the season is celebrated in other countries. B&R
