Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, which occurred on the third day after his burial following his crucifixion at Calvary. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus, preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance. Faith in Jesus’ resurrection on the third day following his crucifixion is at the heart of Christian belief.

Easter Day is the annual feast of the resurrection, the pascha or Christian Passover, and the eighth day of cosmic creation. Easter sets the experience of springtime next to the ancient stories of deliverance and the proclamation of the risen Christ. In the west, Easter Day occurs on the first Sunday after the full moon on or after the vernal equinox. Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar; following Jewish custom, the feast begins at sunset on Easter Eve with the Great Vigil of Easter.

Easter season lasts fifty days, from Easter Eve (April 8 this year) through the Day of Pentecost (May 28). During this season there is no fasting. The word “alleluia” (praise the Lord) is said or sung repeatedly, which contrasts sharply with the season of Lent when the alleluia is omitted. The color of liturgical vestments and hangings is white or gold. The BCP notes that it is customary for the Paschal candle to burn at all services of the Easter season. The “Alleluia, alleluia” may be added to the dismissals and their responses during the Great Fifty Days.