My Favorite Celebration

A special time in my life is Easter in Belarus. This holiday not only has a deep religious meaning, but also unites my family in the spirit of joy and hope. It is celebrated every year in the spring, with the date varying but always falling on a Sunday, as it is believed to be the day Jesus Christ rose from the dead. In my country, Easter is celebrated for several days, and we eagerly prepare for it in advance. First of all, preparation for Easter begins with Lent, which lasts 40 days. During this time, Orthodox Christians abstain from meat, dairy products, and eggs, and should also devote more time to prayer. My husband and I also observe Lent. Secondly, on Holy Saturday, we prepared for the Easter night service, which begins on Saturday evening and lasts until Sunday morning. After the night service, other believers and I, bless the Easter baskets with food that we prepared in advance. The baskets usually contain kulichi (festive sweet breads), paskha (sweet curds), colored eggs, and other products. Finally, after the service, my large family and I gather around the festive table, which is filled with many traditional dishes prepared with love and care. Usually, all the gatherings take place at my grandparents home. We talk about many topics, share stories and laughter, and play games. The joy of being together, the shared laughter, and the warmth of family ties make these moments unforgettable. In conclusion, Easter holds a special place in my heart. It is a time when I feel part of something bigger, when every moment is filled with light, hope, and faith in miracles. It is a reminder of the strength of family ties and the beauty of shared traditions. Celebration traditions may vary depending on the country and region, but the basic idea remains the same – it is a time of joy, spiritual renewal, and strengthening of family ties. The Easter greeting “Christ is Risen!” and the response “Truly He is Risen!” resound everywhere, filling the hearts of believers with light and hope.