04/02/2009

Albania Celebrates Easter

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Albania Celebrates Easter        A picture named M2                        

Albania, like many Eastern European countries, has it traditional ways of celebrating holidays and especially unique is their way of celebrating Easter.  Colored eggs are designed for both fun and tradition and hold a special meaning in Albania.

Eggs dyed red are one of the brightest symbols of Easter representing the blood of Christ and his rebirth as well as new life and springtime.  Artificial Dyes are available, but many Albanians choose “natural” ways of coloring the eggs including boiling with onion skins and other vegetables or berries.  Each town has its unique customs, but often eggs are passed out at a traditional Easter service where many dress in native costumes.

After the service, it is customary for citizen to participate in an egg tapping game before they are eaten.  Often a younger friend or relative will approach an elder holding the egg with the pointed end up saying “Christ has risen” with the reply, “He is risen indeed.”  The red eggs are then struck together resulting in one egg cracking and the stronger one surviving.  The person with the last remaining un-cracked egg, it is said, will have good luck.    

Submitted Courtesy Hal Molhoek

04/17/2009

Orthodox Easter April 19th

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Orthodox Easter                                
A picture named M2
April 19 marks the day of Orthodox Easter celebrated throughout Eastern Europe, with customs that have been observed for centuries.  Referred to as Pascha in most countries, it is considered the most important religious holiday of the year, often more significant and sacred than Christmas.  Orthodox Easter is celebrated later than that in the West, (typically one week) and follows the Julian calendar as opposed to the West which follows the Gregorian calendar.  

The weeks leading up to Easter are usually quite solemn leading up to the celebrations of the Easter weekend when the atmosphere is quite festive.  Special foods, desserts, and brightly colored eggs are part of the custom as the parishioners greet each other with the words, “He has risen.”

submitted by Hal Molhoek