What's happened
Easter celebrations unfolded across Spain and the Middle East, with communities overcoming challenges such as rain and war to commemorate the holiday. In Quesada, Spain, Alfonso del Río Martínez and fellow Christians paraded a float bearing Christ and the Virgen despite the rain. In Gaza, the Holy Family Church held somber Easter celebrations for displaced Palestinian Christians. Pope Francis led Easter Sunday Mass at the Vatican, praying for global peace. Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem led Easter Sunday Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, while the Da’abul family canceled their annual Easter trip to Nazareth due to war.
Why it matters
The Easter celebrations in Spain and the Middle East highlight the resilience and faith of communities facing challenges such as adverse weather conditions and conflict. Despite the obstacles, these events demonstrate the importance of tradition and unity in times of hardship. The global significance of Easter as a religious holiday is underscored by the diverse ways in which it is observed, reflecting both cultural traditions and contemporary realities.
What the papers say
The Independent and New York Times provide insights into the Easter celebrations in Spain and the Middle East, showcasing the diverse ways in which communities marked the holiday amidst varying circumstances. While The Independent focuses on the celebrations in Quesada, Spain, and Procida, Italy, the New York Times sheds light on the Easter observances in Gaza and Jerusalem, emphasizing the challenges faced by displaced Palestinian Christians and the impact of the ongoing conflict on religious practices.
How we got here
Easter is a significant religious holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide. In Spain, traditional processions and rituals are an integral part of Holy Week celebrations, symbolizing faith and devotion. In the Middle East, including Gaza and Jerusalem, Easter holds cultural and religious importance for Christian communities amidst geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The juxtaposition of Easter celebrations with challenges such as adverse weather conditions and war reflects the resilience and determination of believers to uphold their traditions.
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Easter, also called Pascha or Resurrection Sunday, is a festival and holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day after his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans
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The Associated Press is an American not-for-profit news agency headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1846, it operates as a cooperative, unincorporated association. Its members are U.S. newspapers and broadcasters.