Easter 2026

It is interesting to note that our English word ‘Easter’ which we celebrate in a religious context doesn’t have Latin or Greek roots. Its etymology is vague but it is generally accepted to be from Old English relating to ‘east’ where the sun rises and dawn awakens our world and initiates the beginnings of new life. This simplicity of association with compass direction is somewhat underwhelming given the historical and religious importance of the Resurrection of Jesus as core to our Christian Faith.

If Jesus did not rise from the dead he might never have been recorded as anyone more than another in the line of biblical prophets. The resurrection of Jesus is the completion of the incarnation of God into humanity. The Christmas-to-Easter cycle is the fulfillment of all the biblical prophecies about the Messiah as our divine Saviour, Jesus the Christ. They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead. (John 20:9).

While the expression ‘Paschal mystery’ perhaps captures the religious complexity of language roots more appropriately, ‘Easter’ is the vernacular, and somewhat secular references to eggs and bunnies have not displaced the Faith-filled traditions of Holy Week. Remembrance of the Passion of Jesus and his glorious Resurrection continues to be highlighted internationally by the closing of both government and commercial establishments on Good Friday and Easter Monday.

We live not just because Jesus died, but because he conquered death, he came back to life to confirm his divinity and to ensure his promise that each of us will rise after our own death. It is because of that promise that we live as Christians with a deep conviction and with hope of eternal life with God. The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians:18)

‘Hope’ is a simple synonym for ‘Easter’. . . Hope in transformation, hope in new beginnings, hope in a whole new paradigm . . .

He has risen! Alleluia!