Orthodox Easter in the United States

Overview: Orthodox Easter, also known as Pascha, is the most significant religious feast in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The date of Orthodox Easter in the United States differs from that of Western Christianity due to the use of the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar.

History and Traditions:

• Date Calculation: The date for Orthodox Easter is determined based on a combination of lunar and solar calculations, often resulting in a later observance than Western Easter.
• Holy Week: Preceding Pascha is Holy Week, which includes a series of services leading up to Easter Sunday.
• Midnight Service: The celebrations peak with a midnight service on Easter Sunday when congregants gather for the proclamation "Christ is Risen!"
• Paschal Greeting: The traditional greeting "Christos Anesti" (Christ is Risen) and response "Alithos Anesti" (Truly He is Risen) are exchanged among believers.
• Candlelight Procession: At midnight, worshippers often participate in a procession outside the church, carrying candles to represent the light of Christ's resurrection.

What People Do:

• Fasting and Feasting: Following a period of Lenten fasting, a rich feast typically breaks the fast after the midnight service. Foods might include lamb, tsoureki (a sweet bread), magiritsa soup, and red-dyed eggs symbolizing Christ's blood and new life.
• Home Celebrations: Many families hold gatherings where they share meals and continue to celebrate with traditional foods and customs throughout Bright Week (the week following Easter).
• Church Attendance: It's common for even less observant members of the Orthodox community to attend church services during this time.

In summary, Orthodox Easter in the United States is marked by liturgical services culminating in an exuberant celebration of Jesus Christ's resurrection, accompanied by unique traditions that reflect deep religious significance for its observers.