Easter in the Orthodox Church is much more than colored eggs and baskets of food.  It is the most joyous of days - it is the celebration of the Resurrection of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

After fasting and prayers for fourty days during Great Lent Orthodox Christians from all over the world come to the darkened church at midnight on Easter - suddenly the bells ring and candles are lit as the parishoners walk in joyous procession around the church singing "Christ is Risen"!

A tradition at Easter is to bring a basket to church filled with all the type of foods that were not eaten during Lent.  Some of these include kielbasa, ham, a special Pascha bread and cheese, colored eggs and a poppy or nut roll among other things.  Candy is also a big favorite!  A candle is placed amongst the items and a colorful cloth is sometimes used to cover the food.  People of all backgrounds bring their favorite foods to help celebrate the feast!

After the Priest blesses the food and baskets we gather together and share our food in a community meal (usually around 1:30 am)!  Other items from the basket such as salt, oil and wine are brought home to carry the Blessing of Pascha to our homes and table.

All are invited - many don't have baskets but there is always plenty to go around!