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6 THE SHEPHERD • APRIL 2025 • SAINT SPYRIDON GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH OF SAN DIEGO Greek Orthodox Easter, or Πάσχα “Pascha," is the most significant religious celebration in Greece. It is rich with traditions that blend faith, history, and culture, making it a deeply spiritual time for Greeks worldwide. Each tradition and custom carries profound meaning, symbolizing renewal, sacrifice, and the triumph of life over death. Below, we ex- plore the key traditions of Greek Orthodox Pascha and their significance. 1. Great and Holy Lent (Μεγάλη Σαρακοστή) The period leading up to Pascha begins with Great Lent, a 40-day fasting period that pre- pares the faithful spiritually and physically for Christ’s Resurrection. During this time, Orthodox Christians abstain from meat, dairy, and animal products, emphasizing simplicity, reflection, and prayer. This fasting mirrors Christ’s 40 days of fasting in the des- ert and serves as a time of purification. 2. Great and Holy Week (Μεγάλη Εβδομάδα) The week preceding Pascha, known as Great and Holy Week, is filled with solemn church services and traditions that recount the Pas- sion of Christ. • Great and Holy Thursday: This day com- memorates the Last Supper. Families tra- ditionally dye eggs red, symbolizing the blood of Christ and His sacrifice. • Great and Holy Friday: A day of mourn- ing, where the Epitaphios (a symbolic bier of Christ) is carried in a solemn proces- sion through the streets. The faithful fol- low, holding candles, symbolizing their mourning and participation in Christ’s suffering. • Great and Holy Saturday: On Great and Holy Saturday night, people gather at churches for the midnight service. The priest emerges with the Holy Light, pro- claiming the Resurrection of Christ. The congregation lights their candles from this flame, and at the stroke of midnight, bells ring joyfully, fireworks are set off, and peo- ple greet each other with "Christos Anesti" (Christ is Risen), responding with "Alithos Anesti" (Truly He is Risen). Children of- ten take part by holding their own candles, adding to the sense of community and ex- citement. 3. Great &Holy Pascha (Πάσχα) Sunday Feast Great and Holy Pascha Sunday is a time of great celebration. Families gather for a fes- tive meal, with lamb roasted on a spit as the main dish, symbolizing Christ as the Lamb of God. Traditional dishes include "magirit- sa," a soup made from lamb offal, which is eaten after the midnight service to break the fast. Children enjoy running around playing with their cousins and participating in fami- ly games while waiting for the feast. 4. Τσουρέκια / Tsourekia (Greek Easter Bread) Tsourekia, a sweet, braided bread flavored with mahleb and mastic, is an essential Pas- cha treat. It symbolizes the Resurrection and renewal of life, as the dough rises just as Christ did. The bread is often adorned with a red egg in the center, reinforcing the themes of Pascha. Children often help with baking by braiding the dough or placing the eggs in the bread, making it a fun and educational family activity. 4.The Red Eggs (Κόκκινα Αυγά) One of the most iconic Pascha traditions in Greece is the red eggs, which represent the blood of Christ and the promise of new life. The cracking of the eggs in a game called "tsougrisma" is symbolic of Christ break- ing free from the tomb and His victory over death. Children particularly enjoy this tra- dition, eagerly competing with family mem- bers to see whose egg remains uncracked the longest. Conclusion Greek Orthodox Pascha (Easter) is a deep- ly meaningful and spiritually enriching cel- ebration that combines religious devotion with strong cultural traditions. From the fasting of Great Lent to the joyous Resur- rection service and the communal feasting, each element of Pascha reflects themes of sacrifice, renewal, and the eternal victory of life over death. It remains one of the most cherished times of the year for Greeks, rein- forcing faith, family, and heritage. Children play a special role in these traditions, actively participating in egg dyeing, games, church services, and family celebrations, helping to pass on the customs to future generations. Nancy Provataris, PhD Greek Language School Director GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL PASCHA PICNIC Sunday April 20, 2025 at Flinn Springs County Park (Area #1) 14787 Olde Hwy. 80, El Cajon, CA 92021 Agapi Service 11:00 AM Traditional Greek music & dancing and picnic to follow Glass bottles allowed! Dogs on a leash allowed! Free Parking! Park closes at sunset