When we think about major Christian holidays, Christmas often takes centre stage. It’s bright, it’s busy, and thanks to clever marketing (especially from Coca-Cola), it’s become a full-blown commercial season. But for Christians, Easter is the true heart of the faith—and the most important event in the Christian calendar.
Here’s why Easter matters more than Christmas, why it remains the most sacred time for Christians worldwide, and why it’s vital for us as a Christian country to keep its message alive—while celebrating the diversity of global and local communities.
The Importance of Easter in Christianity
The meaning of Easter goes far deeper than Easter eggs and school holidays. It marks the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—the defining moment in the Christian faith. Without the resurrection, there would be no Christianity.
Where Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, Easter celebrates his victory over death, the fulfilment of prophecy, and the ultimate hope of eternal life. It is the foundation of Christian belief, symbolising renewal, redemption, and the unbreakable love of God.
Why Easter Is More Important Than Christmas
While both holidays are significant, Easter holds greater theological weight. It is during Holy Week that Christians remember the Last Supper, the betrayal of Jesus, the crucifixion on Good Friday, and the miracle of the resurrection on Easter Sunday. These events are central to salvation and the gospel message.
In contrast, Christmas has been heavily commercialised. Thanks to 20th-century marketing campaigns—most notably by Coca-Cola shaping the image of Santa Claus—Christmas has become more about gifts, sales, and decorations. It’s a joyful time, but it has strayed from its spiritual roots.
Easter, however, remains a sacred period. Despite chocolate eggs and bunny-themed events, it still retains a deep sense of reverence in churches and Christian communities.
Easter Celebrations Across the World
What makes Easter truly powerful is that it unites Christians across the globe—regardless of denomination, culture, or country. While the ways of celebrating may differ, the core message remains the same: Christ is risen.
Here are a few remarkable Easter traditions around the world:
• Catholic and Orthodox Churches: In countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece, Holy Week is marked by dramatic processions, candlelit vigils, and powerful re-enactments of the Passion of Christ. Orthodox Christians often celebrate Easter later, following the Julian calendar, with midnight services and joyful feasts.
• Latin America: Countries such as Mexico and Guatemala mark Semana Santa (Holy Week) with colourful parades, elaborate altars, and community-wide celebrations rooted deeply in faith and culture.
• Philippines: Devout Catholics take part in intense spiritual practices during Lent, including fasting, prayer walks, and on Good Friday, even real-life crucifixions in some regions to symbolise sacrifice.
• Ethiopia: Easter (Fasika) is a deeply spiritual and family-centred holiday marked by fasting, long church services, and a joyful breaking of the fast with traditional dishes.
• United States & UK: While Easter may appear more subdued in comparison, it still brings families together for Sunday services, egg hunts, and a renewed sense of faith.
Despite the cultural differences, Easter remains the greatest celebration in the Christian world—a time when churches from every corner of the earth proclaim the same truth: He is risen, indeed.
Preserving Easter as a Sacred Time in the UK
The UK has strong Christian foundations, and Easter has long been a time of reflection, worship, and gathering. As our society becomes more diverse, it’s important to respect and celebrate other faiths, but also to protect the spiritual traditions that shape our national identity.
By keeping Easter sacred, we honour the values of love, sacrifice, and hope. This doesn’t mean we exclude others—it means we stand strong in our faith while welcoming everyone around us.
Celebrating Easter in a Modern Christian Community
For many Christian families, Easter is a time to reconnect with faith. Churches across the country hold services, vigils, and celebrations that remind us of what really matters. It’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect on the message of resurrection, and pass these values on to future generations.
Let’s not allow Easter to go the way of Christmas—overtaken by sales and forgotten stories. Let’s keep it joyful, but sacred.
Final Thoughts
Easter is the most important Christian celebration—not just because of what happened 2,000 years ago, but because of what it still means today. It’s a story of hope that transcends time. It reminds us of the power of faith, the depth of love, and the promise of renewal.
As a Christian country, let’s make sure Easter stays at the heart of our calendar. Let’s honour it, protect its meaning, and share its message of peace—with our families, our neighbours, and our diverse, welcoming community.
