The Christian community flocked to churches across the country to observe Good Friday, traditionally celebrated before Easter, which falls this year on April 24.
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death. Christians mourn his death on Good Friday and celebrate his resurrection two days later on Sunday.
The day is named so because Christians believe Jesus sacrificed his life for humanity and good of everyone.
As the story goes, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion, which is referred to as Easter Day or Easter Sunday (sometimes also called Resurrection Day or Resurrection Sunday).
Easter marks the end of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting. It is followed by 50-day period called Eastertide or the Easter Season, ending with Pentecost Sunday.
Easter occurs during the spring, in March or April — the method for determining the date of Easter Sunday is complex, based on lunisolar calendar.
Easter customs vary across the Christian world, but decorating Easter eggs is common.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2011.
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