Catholic Easter has something in common with the Orthodox, but it also has significant differences. The main similarity of Easter among Catholics and Orthodox is in the tradition of painting eggs. The difference is that Catholics have a lot of fun using them. One of them is baking eggs in an Easter rabbit. Many Orthodox have not even heard that there is a special Easter rabbit. This animal gained popularity as a symbol of fertility. Children at Easter have fun looking for eggs and rabbits. It is believed that the figure of this animal brings good luck and prosperity.
Another difference between Easter among Catholics and Orthodox is the calendar. Catholics celebrate according to the Julian calendar, Orthodox - according to the Gregorian. Only once in all the time did the celebration dates converge. This happened in 2011. Someone took this event as a signal that all Christians should live in peace and love. Catholic Easter is celebrated in different countries about the same. This, however, does not exclude some national differences. For example, in England Easter traditions have slightly different traditions than in Poland, the Czech Republic or Greece. By the way, in Orthodox Greece this holiday is celebrated in a Catholic way.
The British celebrate Easter in the family circle. Among the special treats, special buns with the image of the cross should be noted. In England, in addition to the general family tradition, each county can find its own special fun and entertainment. On this holiday, competitions are often held. Catholic Easter in Italy is one of the most important holidays in the country. After all, Italy is the birthplace of the Catholic faith. Here is a solemn procession on Easter. Believers move from the Coliseum to the Palatine Hill itself. The holiday here is also special because the Pope himself personally congratulates the faithful. This happens at St. Peter's Church. Probably every believing Catholic should at least once celebrate this event in Rome. As for dishes, every city in Italy has its own special treats.
In America, Easter is celebrated in a special way. It is known that in this country there are many Catholics from various states. The only thing that unites all believers is that the holiday here is considered traditionally family. Catholic Easter in the United States does not do without such fun as rolling eggs. In all other respects, a representative of each nationality usually follows the traditions of his native country. The main celebration takes place in the square in front of the White House.
Catholic Easter differs from Orthodox Easter in that the fasting preceding it is less rigid. It runs twice a week on certain days. The holiday begins with the fact that in the temples they consecrate water and fire. Then follows a solemn service. Catholics have a very interesting ritual, thanks to which the last week before the holiday was called "ashen". This name is no coincidence, because believers in this period sprinkle ashes on their heads in a sign of grief. Ash is not used simply, but from the willows left over from last year. Branches are burned, and ash is stored for this case. The action takes place on Wednesday.
Catholics Easter is a lot of fun. Both adults and children are looking forward to it. Children expect delicious gifts and fun. Adults also do not mind playing and competing. Among the gifts are usually presented various baskets with rabbits and eggs. The houses are richly decorated, and the tables are set as luxuriously as on Christmas or New Year. Easter symbolizes not only the resurrection of Christ, but the coming of spring. People put on elegant clothes to celebrate the holiday, as it should. After all, Easter Day signals the onset of the warm season. It is the boundary between winter and spring.