This weekend Christians will be observing Good Friday and Easter Sunday, perhaps the two most meaningful holidays of their religious calendar. The former reflects upon the crucifixion of Jesus Christ; the latter is the celebration of his resurrection.
I grew up in a small town, in the middle of an agricultural landscape. The time was conservative, the culture mainstream for the time. The population was comprised of hard-working folk of deep Christian faith. Mine no less so than others.
Regular attendance at church was de rigueur. As a tot I sat quietly in the pew under Mom’s strict supervision which was abetted by the watchful eyes of my dad, sister and brother from the choir loft. Any restlessness or mischief from me was duly noted and dealt with following the service.
Looking back, it was no surprise that there were some Sunday mornings when a child’s energy and short attention span would get the better of me. The first hour before the service, I spent in Sunday School where my father served as superintendent and my siblings taught. Meaning for 2 1/2 hours every Sunday morning I was expected to sit still and listen.
The idea of missing any of this was not an option. And my time in church increased significantly during the Lenten calendar as there were extra mandatory services at church on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, until finally Easter morning. On this day, I sported a brand new spring ensemble, complete with a perky bonnet, sparkling white ankle socks and shiny patent leather shoes.
Needless to say, as much as I could count on a few hidden eggs and a chocolate bunny to enliven the occasion later on the Sunday, Easter in our household was steeped in faith. The bunny, and his Saturday night efforts, were given short shrift.
I have great respect for the beliefs of people of strong faith. Particularly at this time of year. The importance of any religious observance is significant. But for Christians, Easter is extremely meaningful. The collections of clipart shared below honour that. There are no bunnies, nor chocolate, nor eggs.
iCLIPART.com Religious Easter Illustrations
