Easter, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, arrives in spring each year and makes for a colourful holiday. Many Christians worldwide celebrate Easter with special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and the ringing of church bells. Many Christians view Easter as the greatest feast of the Church year.

It is a day of joy and celebration to commemorate that Jesus Christ has risen, according to Christian belief.

However, this year the memory of the suicide attacks on churches in Lahore’s Youhanabad area was fresh in many minds, dampening celebratory spirits. But the pews in the churches of the twin cities were filled during Good Friday services.

Aware of the risk, brave volunteers stood guarding churches during service. And it was a busy weekend for many who attended service on Friday and then made preparations for Easter on Sunday. Families thronged the markets for last minute shopping and in many parts of Saddar, Lal Kurti, Chaklala, Chah Sultan, Patthe Naik Alam, residents were seen decorating houses. The smell of rising dough filled many homes as special cakes, a signature Easter treat, were baked ahead of the day.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2015

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