Easter in Cyprus
Orthodox Easter Sunday, celebrated on April 20th, holds profound significance for millions of believers worldwide. This sacred day commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of the Christian faith. Unlike Western Easter, which often falls on a different date, Orthodox Easter follows the Julian calendar, leading to the occasional discrepancy in dates. The day brings together families, communities, and entire nations in a vibrant celebration of faith, tradition, and renewal.
Preparing for Easter
The preparations for Orthodox Easter begin weeks in advance, during the solemn period of Great Lent. Believers engage in fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, reflecting on their spiritual journey and preparing their hearts for the joyous resurrection. Holy Week, the final week before Easter, intensifies these observances. Each day carries its own unique rituals and services, culminating in the midnight Resurrection Service on Holy Saturday.

Christ is Risen
On the evening of Holy Saturday, churches fill with worshippers, each holding a candle to symbolize the light of Christ. As the clock approaches midnight, the priest announces, "Christ is Risen!" The congregation responds with jubilant cries of "Indeed, He is Risen!" The church bells ring, and the faithful share the light of their candles, passing the flame from one person to another until the entire space glows with a warm, radiant light. This moment captures the essence of Orthodox Easter—a celebration of hope, victory over death, and the promise of eternal life.
The end of the Fast
Following the service, families return home to break their fast with a festive meal. The table overflows with traditional dishes, each carrying symbolic meaning. Red-dyed eggs, representing the blood of Christ and the tomb from which He emerged, take centre stage. Families engage in the custom of cracking eggs, with each person tapping their egg against another's, declaring, "Christ is Risen!" The one whose egg remains uncracked receives blessings for the year ahead.

A Joyous Celebration of Abundance and Gratitude
Lamb, a symbol of Christ as the Lamb of God, often graces the table, roasted to perfection and shared among loved ones. Sweet breads like tsoureki or paska, rich with butter, eggs, and spices, remind believers of the sweetness of salvation. Cheese, wine, and other delicacies further enrich the feast, turning the meal into a joyous celebration of abundance and gratitude.
Orthodox Easter also fosters a deep sense of community. Neighbours exchange greetings and gifts, while churches host gatherings that bring people together in fellowship. In many cultures, outdoor festivities, music, and dancing extend the celebration into the public sphere, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared joy.
Forgiveness and Transformation
Beyond the rituals and traditions, Orthodox Easter carries a timeless message of renewal. It invites believers to reflect on their own lives, to embrace forgiveness, and to seek transformation. The resurrection of Christ serves as a powerful reminder that no darkness is too great, no challenge too insurmountable, and no sin beyond redemption.
For Orthodox Christians, Easter Sunday on April 20th is not merely a historical event but a living reality. It

reaffirms their faith, strengthens their bonds with one another, and inspires them to live with hope and purpose. As the candles flicker and the hymns echo, the timeless proclamation "Christ is Risen!" continues to resonate, offering light and life to all who believe.