Pentecost is almost here, which means it is time for one of my favorite simple and meaningful feast day crafts! This Gifts of the Holy Spirit Mobile is such a fun way to celebrate Pentecost together as a family. Children love cutting out the flames, hanging them on branches, and watching them sway in the breeze while learning about the Holy Spirit and the fruits He grows within us. Pentecost is one of the great feast days of the Church year. It is the day that we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. Fifty days after Easter, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples like wind and fire, filling them with boldness, courage, and joy. Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He told His disciples to wait and pray in Jerusalem until they received the gift He had promised. Jesus promised to send a Helper and Comforter to His people. Through the Holy Spirit, God would dwell with His people, give them new hearts, and fill them with power to carry the Gospel into the world. What an incredible promise! One of the things I love most about Pentecost is that it reminds us that God does not leave us alone. Through the Holy Spirit, He guides us, comforts us, strengthens us, and transforms us. In Galatians 5, we are told that when the Holy Spirit dwells within us, He produces fruit in our lives. As you make this simple Pentecost mobile together, talk about the fruit of the Spirit and pray that the Holy Spirit would continue to work in your hearts and your home. The Fruits of the Holy Spirit Love Joy Peace Patience Kindness Goodness Faithfulness Gentleness Self-control Ways to Celebrate Pentecost Read Acts 1–2 together as a family and talk about the coming of the Holy Spirit. Read Galatians 5:22–23 and discuss the fruit of the Spirit. Talk about what each fruit means and how we can grow in these virtues through the work of the Holy Spirit. Make a Gifts of the Holy Spirit Mobile. How to Make a Gifts of the Holy Spirit Mobile This simple craft is a beautiful visual reminder of the flames of Pentecost and the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Hang it in your home on Pentecost as a reminder of God’s presence with us. You Will Need: White cardstock or construction paper Yellow, orange, and red cardstock or construction paper Scissors Glue stick Hole punch Twine or string A branch, hanger, or chandelier to hang your mobile from The printable patterns (download below) Instructions: Print the dove and flame patterns onto cardstock or trace them onto your paper. Cut out: One white dove Nine large yellow flames Nine medium orange flames Nine small red flames Glue one orange flame onto each yellow flame. Then glue one red flame on top of each orange flame to create layered flames. Turn the flames over and write one fruit of the Holy Spirit on the back of each flame. Punch a hole near the top of each flame and in the dove. Tie loops of twine through each piece. Arrange the flames and dove on a branch and hang your mobile in your dining room, on your kitchen table, in a window, or anywhere in your home where your family can enjoy it throughout the Pentecost season. As you hang each flame, say a prayer together and ask the Holy Spirit to fill your home with His presence. Happy Pentecost!

Sunday is Pentecost! Pentecost is the day that the church celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the church. It is a major feast day so get ready to celebrate! Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he instructed his disciples to wait and pray in Jerusalem until they received the gift that he had promised. Jesus promised to send a helper, a comforter to his people. This Comforter would come bringing a baptism of fire and power. Through this Comforter, God would dwell with his people and he would give us new hearts and he would place a new spirit within us. What an amazing thing! In 1 Corinthians 12, we are told that when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, he gives us all gifts. “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the gift of wisdom, to another the gift of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.” Ways to Celebrate Read Acts 1-2 and 1 Corinthians 12:7-11. Learn about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Look up and go over what each gift means. Make a Gifts of the Holy Spirit Mobile and as you are making it, pray that the Holy Spirit would give those gifts to you! Instructions for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit Mobile Trace and cut out a clip art image of a dove on white paper. Trace and cut out seven large yellow flame shapes, seven smaller orange tear drop shapes and seven even smaller red tear drop shapes. Glue an orange and then a red tear drop onto each yellow flame. Punch a hole in your dove and flames, write a gift of the Holy Spirit on the back of each flame, tie loops of twine through each shape and hang on a branch or from a chandelier. Happy Pentecost!

The Day of Pentecost is one of the highest feast days in the liturgical year. It is the day that we remember and celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. This pivotal moment in Christian history is the fulfillment of Christ’s promise to send a helper, a comforter, who would empower and guide his followers after his Ascension into heaven. The coming of the Holy Spirit transformed the disciples into bold witnesses of the Gospel. What began in an upper room in Jerusalem spread outward into the entire world and continues even now through the life of the Church. Pentecost is not simply the story of a miraculous event long ago. It is the story of God dwelling within His people and empowering them to carry the light of Christ into the world. The word Pentecost comes from the Greek word meaning “fiftieth” because it occurred fifty days after Passover. It was originally the Greek name for the Jewish Feast of Weeks, or Shavuot, during which the people brought the first fruits of the harvest to Jerusalem. This is why Jews from every nation had gathered in the city when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles. Although the Christian Pentecost no longer aligns with the Jewish festival, we continue to call this feast Pentecost because it falls on the fiftieth day of Easter. It is also known as Whitsunday, or “White Sunday,” because throughout history Pentecost became one of the great days for baptisms. Newly baptized Christians would wear white robes to symbolize the washing away of sin and their new life in Christ. Pentecost not only concludes the Easter season but also marks the beginning of the long season after Pentecost, Ordinary Time. Pentecost in Scripture Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He instructed His disciples to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit. He promised they would receive power from on high and be baptized with the Holy Spirit and fire. For ten days, the disciples, the women, Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the other believers gathered together in prayer in the upper room. Then, on the Day of Pentecost, everything changed. Suddenly, a sound like a mighty rushing wind filled the house, and tongues of fire appeared and rested upon each of them. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in different languages. At the same time, devout Jews from every nation were gathered in Jerusalem for Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks. When they heard the noise, they were astounded and asked, “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” (Acts 2:7-11). Some were amazed while others mocked them, assuming they were drunk. But Peter stood before the crowd and proclaimed that this was the fulfillment of the prophecy from Joel: “And it shall come to pass afterward,that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh;your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,your old men shall dream dreams,and your young men shall see visions.”— Joel 2:28 Peter boldly preached that Jesus, who had been crucified, was risen and exalted at the right hand of God as Lord and Messiah. His words pierced the hearts of the people, and many asked what they should do. Peter called them to repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, promising that they too would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. That very day, about three thousand people were baptized. These new believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. They lived in unity, shared what they had, gathered together daily, and praised God with glad and sincere hearts. The Meaning of Pentecost The Day of Pentecost is filled with deep theological significance. Pentecost is the fulfillment of Joel 2:28-32, which foretold that in the last days, God’s Spirit would be poured out on all flesh, leading up to the return of Christ. It also fulfills Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit upon his disciples after his Ascension (John 14:16-17, 26; John 16:7). Pentecost is believed to be the birth of the Church. Before this event, the followers of Jesus were a disparate group of disciples. The coming of the Holy Spirit empowered them. It united them into a single body with a shared mission, marking the beginning of the Church as a distinct entity committed to following Jesus. The Holy Spirit united the followers of Jesus and called them to fulfill Jesus’ Great Commission, to spread the Gospel throughout the earth. The Holy Spirit’s descent on Pentecost gave the disciples the spiritual gifts necessary for ministry and mission. God not only called but also empowered them. This was immediately demonstrated through Peter’s bold proclamation of the Gospel and the conversion of about 3,000 people in a single day. Pentecost reverses the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9), where God confused human languages, scattering the people. On the Day of Pentecost, the apostles speaking in various tongues enabled them to communicate despite language barriers, symbolizing the unifying power of the Holy Spirit and the universal nature of the Gospel’s reach. The disciples were given boldness to proclaim the Good News of Jesus, and the people who heard it were able to understand and believe. The Holy Spirit’s arrival at Pentecost leads to spiritual transformation within individuals, producing spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22-23), granting diverse spiritual gifts to build up the Church (1 Corinthians 12), and renewing hearts and minds to reflect Christ more closely. Pentecost Traditions Around the World Pentecost has long been celebrated with joyful and vibrant customs throughout the Christian world. Similar to Ascension Day, a popular custom is to climb a hill or a mountain, often barefoot, to pray for the Holy Spirit. In the Alps, people decorate the cattle with garlands of flowers and send them up into the high pastures. In Austria, young men go out with long whips and crack them. Then they fire ancient guns on the mountainsides. Since red is the liturgical color of Pentecost, symbolizing the fire of the Holy Spirit, churches are traditionally filled with red banners, flowers, vestments, and decorations. Families often wear red clothing and decorate their homes with red and orange flowers. In the Middle Ages, Western European cathedrals had a Holy Ghost hole: a small circular opening in the roof that symbolized the entrance of the Holy Spirit into the midst of the congregation. On Pentecost, red flower petals or burning straw (!) would rain down upon the congregation through the Holy Ghost hole. Sometimes, they would lower a figure of a large wooden dove through the hole and would hover over the congregation while a lector read the narrative of Pentecost. In France, trumpets were sounded during the service to imitate the mighty rushing wind described in Acts. In Australia, Pentecost comes during the fall, so red poinsettias decorate churches. Many churches select members of their congregation to stand up all at once and read aloud the story of Pentecost in their particular language. They do this to reflect the first Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to speak in various tongues. Ways to Celebrate Pentecost Read the Pentecost Story Read Acts 2:1–11 together as a family. Then read Jesus’ words about the Holy Spirit in John 15:26–27 and John 16:12–15. Discuss the Gifts of the Holy Spirit Read 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 and discuss the different gifts of the Holy Spirit. Then, make a fun Pentecost Mobile with a dove and seven tongues of flame for the seven gifts of the spirit. You can find the tutorial here. Wear Red Dress in red clothing to symbolize the fire of the Holy Spirit. Decorate Your Home Decorate your dining table with red flowers, red candles, or red and orange streamers to symbolize the flames of Pentecost. Scatter rose petals across the table or use a red tablecloth for your Pentecost meal. Read Books About Pentecost Read my favorite children’s books on Pentecost. Eat Red Foods Celebrate with foods that reflect the liturgical color of the feast, such as strawberries, cherries, watermelon, roasted red peppers, tomato dishes, or Red Velvet Cake. the recipe - Red Velvet Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Cake: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk 1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 extra-large eggs at room temperature Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 1/2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar Directions for Cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Combine the buttermilk, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla in a large measuring cup. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar at medium speed for one minute until it is light. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until combined. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry and wet ingredients alternately in three parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, and mix until combined. Stir with a rubber spatula to mix the batter. Pour the batter into two 8-inch cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pans and frost the cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. Directions for Frosting: Place the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and mix on medium speed just until combined. Add the sugar and mix until smooth.

The Feast of the Ascension, also known as Ascension Day, is one of the highest feast days in the liturgical year. It is the day that we remember Jesus’ bodily ascent into heaven and the profound significance of this moment in the story of our salvation. At first glance, the Ascension might seem like a sorrowful event. Jesus physically leaves the earth and disappears from the sight of His disciples. But the Church has always celebrated this day with great joy because the Ascension is not an ending—it is a triumph. The Ascension marks the completion of Christ’s saving work, His glorious return to the Father, and the beginning of something entirely new. Jesus ascends in victory, opening heaven to humanity and preparing the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. It is both a conclusion and a commencement. The Ascension in Scripture The Ascension is mentioned in every Gospel except the Gospel of John and is recounted most fully in the Book of Acts. After His resurrection, Jesus remained with His disciples for forty days. He ate with them, taught them about the kingdom of God, and prepared them for what was to come. One day, while He was eating with them, He told them to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the gift His Father had promised. He told them they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit, receive power, and become His witnesses throughout the world. On the fortieth day after Easter, Jesus led them out to the Mount of Olives. He lifted His hands and blessed them, and as He blessed them, He was taken up into the clouds. While the disciples stood looking into heaven, two men dressed in white appeared beside them and asked why they were staring into the sky. They told them that Jesus would return in the same way He had ascended. And then something beautiful happens: the disciples worship. Filled with joy, they return to Jerusalem where they devote themselves to prayer alongside Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the other believers as they await Pentecost. Why the Ascension Matters There is so much theological richness packed into the Ascension. The Ascension marks the completion of Jesus’ earthly ministry and confirms that His mission of salvation has been fulfilled. Christ ascends victorious, having conquered sin and death. Through the Ascension, Jesus is exalted and enthroned at the right hand of the Father. The Church has always understood this moment as Christ’s coronation as King over heaven and earth. The Ascension also reminds us that Jesus continues to intercede for us. Though He is no longer physically present on earth, He remains actively involved in our lives, mediating between humanity and the Father. And perhaps most importantly, the Ascension prepares the way for Pentecost. Jesus tells His disciples that it is necessary for Him to go so that the Holy Spirit may come. The Ascension, therefore, becomes the bridge between Easter and Pentecost and the beginning of the Church’s mission in the world. The Ascension also points toward our own future hope. Jesus ascends bodily into heaven, carrying human nature with Him. In doing so, He opens the way for our own resurrection and glorification with Him. And finally, the Ascension directs our eyes toward Christ’s promised return. Just as He ascended into heaven, so He will come again. The Feast of the Ascension in the Life of the Church Since Jesus appeared to the disciples for forty days after His resurrection, Ascension Day is celebrated forty days after Easter. Traditionally, it falls on a Thursday, though some churches transfer the celebration to Sunday so that more people may participate in the feast. The nine days between Ascension and Pentecost are known as a novena and are considered the very first novena of the Church. Just as the disciples gathered in prayer while waiting for the Holy Spirit, Christians throughout history have spent these days praying and preparing their hearts for Pentecost. The Feast of the Ascension was already firmly established by the fourth century. A Spanish nun named Egeria recorded Christians in Jerusalem processing to the Mount of Olives, where hymns were sung, Scripture was read, and prayers were offered in remembrance of Christ’s ascension. Ascension Traditions Around the World Ascension Day has been celebrated with beautiful and fascinating customs throughout the Christian world. In many places, Christians process through fields and pastures while praying for God’s blessing on the land. In England, this became known as “Beating the Bounds,” where parish boundaries were walked and prayed over with bundles of sticks. In Portugal, Ascension Day is celebrated as Dia da Espiga (“Day of the Wheat Ear”). Families gather wheat stalks, rosemary, olive branches, and poppies, and hang them in their homes as symbols of blessing and provision for the coming year. In some churches throughout Europe, statues or crucifixes of the Risen Christ were raised through openings in the ceiling called “Holy Spirit holes,” while flowers, fruit, and cookies rained down upon the congregation. In western Germany, bakers traditionally sold pastries shaped like birds to symbolize Christ ascending into heaven. In parts of Italy, families celebrated with picnics and children caught crickets, which were believed to bring blessings. And in Venice, during the Feast of the Ascension, crowds still gather at the clock tower in Piazza San Marco to watch the mechanical Magi emerge and bow before Christ. Ways to Celebrate Ascension Day Read Acts 1:1–11 Read the story of the Ascension together as a family and reflect on Christ’s kingship and promise to return. Eat Fowl Traditionally, Christians ate birds such as duck, pheasant, or dove because they “fly upward” toward heaven. Roast chicken or turkey makes a simple modern alternative. Make Bird-Shaped Cookies In parts of Germany, bird-shaped pastries were traditionally eaten on Ascension Day. Hike a Hill or Mountain Just as Jesus led His disciples up the Mount of Olives, many Christians traditionally climb to a high place on Ascension Day to pray, picnic, or fly kites. Make Divinity This fluffy white candy symbolizes the clouds into which Christ ascended. the recipe - Divinity 2 ½ cups sugar ½ cup water ½ cup light corn syrup ¼ teaspoon salt 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Cook the first four ingredients in a heavy saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves and a candy thermometer registers 248 degrees. Remove from heat. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Slowly pour half the hot syrup into the egg whites while beating continuously. Return the remaining syrup to the heat and cook until it reaches 272 degrees. Slowly pour over the egg white mixture with the vanilla extract, beating until the mixture holds its shape. Stir in pecans. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper and allow to cool.

The Feast of the Ascension, or Ascension Day, is one of the highest feast days in the liturgical year. It is the day we remember Jesus’ bodily ascent into heaven and its profound significance. The Ascension might suggest sadness since Jesus physically left the earth. However, instead, it abounds with great joy as we celebrate the triumph of the risen Lord. It signifies the completion of Christ’s work of our salvation, his glorious entry into heaven, and his pledge of our own glorification with him. It represents both a conclusion and a commencement: Jesus finished his earthly work while setting into motion the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. In Scripture The Ascension appears in each Synoptic Gospel (those of Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and the Book of Acts. After Jesus’ resurrection, he revealed himself to his disciples for forty days. He ate with them and taught them all about the kingdom of God. While eating with them one day, he instructed them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the gift his Father had promised. He then told them that they would be baptized by fire and the Holy Spirit, that they would receive power, and be his witnesses throughout the world. On the fortieth day, Jesus brought them to the summit of the Mount of Olives. He lifted his hands and blessed them. As he was blessing them, he ascended into the clouds. While the disciples looked up into the sky, two men dressed in white stood beside them and asked why they were looking into the sky. They explained that Jesus would return in the same way that he went into heaven as prophesied in Zechariah 14:4. The disciples immediately began worshiping the Lord. Filled with great joy, the disciples returned to Jerusalem to the upper room where they were staying. The women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and Jesus’ brothers, continued with one accord in prayer and supplication. They remained there for nine days, praying and praising God, until the Holy Spirit fell on the day of Pentecost. Meaning The Ascension holds profound meaning for Christians. These few verses feature so much happening and so much deep theological significance! The Ascension marks the end of Jesus’ physical presence on earth and the completion of his earthly ministry. It serves as the culmination and fulfillment of his redemptive work. As he ascended to the Father in glory, it confirms to us all that he completed his mission of salvation. Through the Ascension, Jesus is exalted and glorified as he is seated at the Father’s right hand. This event is seen as Jesus’ enthronement, emphasizing his divine nature, kingship, and ongoing reign over heaven and earth. With his Ascension, Jesus takes his place at the Father’s right hand, where he intercedes on behalf of humanity. This role is crucial as it shows us that he continues to be actively involved in our lives, mediating between us and God. The Ascension sets the stage for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Jesus had promised his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and comfort them. His Ascension is necessary for the Church to receive this gift, making it a foundational moment. Jesus’ Ascension in his resurrected body carries a profound implication for humanity: it points to a future where we will join him in heaven, highlighting the hope of resurrection and Ascension for everyone united with Christ. With Jesus’ departure, the responsibility to continue his work on earth shifts to his disciples and, by extension, to us (the Church). This moment signals the transition from Jesus’ direct ministry to the era of the Church, driven by the Holy Spirit’spower. The Ascension not only recalls Jesus’ departure but also anticipates his promised return. This eschatological (relating to the end of the world) aspect encourages us to look forward to the Second Coming of Christ, which will consummate God’s kingdom. The Feast of the Ascension Since Jesus appeared to the disciples and was with them for 40 days before ascending to heaven, we celebrate Ascension Day 40 days after Easter. There are nine days between the day that Jesus ascended (The Ascension) and the day that the Holy Spirit fell on the disciples (Pentecost). The Church calls these nine days a novena. Ascensiontide became the first such novena ever celebrated. The Anglican Church allows the traditional celebration of Ascension on Thursday to be moved to Sunday. A general trend has developed to move High Holy Days from weekdays to Sundays to encourage more Christians to observe theologically important feasts. According to the travel diary of Egeria, a Spanish nun who journeyed to the Holy Land, the Feast of the Ascension was a well-established feast by the 4th century. Those in Jerusalem celebrated it with a procession of the faithful to the top of the Mount of Olives, where, as she describes, lessons are read there with hymns interspersed, antiphons too are said suitable to the day and the place. Also the prayers which are interspersed have similar references likewise. The passage from the Gospel is also read where it speaks of the Lord’s Ascension, also that from the Acts of the Apostles which tells of the Ascension of the Lord into heaven after His Resurrection. (The Pilgrimage of Egeria) Celebrations Around the World Christians around the world celebrate Ascension Day as a major feast day. In many countries, processions occur in imitation of Christ’s journey with the disciples to the Mount of Olives. The faithful walk with prayer and song through fields and pastures, and the priest blesses the boundaries of the properties. In England, they call this the “beating of the bounds” because they beat the boundaries of the property with bundles of sticks and pray over them. In Portugal, it is known as Dia da Espiga (the day of the ear of a cereal plant, usually wheat). They gather wheat stalks, an olive branch, rosemary, and poppies and place them in their homes. Then, they hang this bundle upside down, behind the entrance or kitchen door or somewhere inside the house, until the Dia da Espiga of the following year, when it is replaced by a new one. They believe that the ears picked on this day provide happiness and abundance to the home. Some churches lift a crucifix or statue of the Risen Lord on wires through a hole in the ceiling known as the Holy Spirit hole. Then, gifts of cookies, fruit, flowers, and green branches rain down from the hole into the church. Since Ascension Day marks Jesus’ return to his Father, Germany commemorates Father’s Day at the same time. Traditionally, men were placed in a cart or carriage and brought to the village square. There, the father who had fathered the most children received a prize from the mayor. In Venice, twice a year, once on the Feast of the Epiphany and once on the Feast of the Ascension, “a Festa della Sensa” occurs in the clock tower in the Piazza San Marco. Underneath the clock is a niche with a figure of Mary holding baby Jesus. Doors on either side of Mary and Jesus open up, and the three Magi, led by an angel, appear. The angel and the three Magi make their way around Mary and Jesus. The angel lifts his trumpet to his lips, and the Magi bow down and remove their crowns. Crowds gather from all over the world to see this special event. Ways to Celebrate Read Acts 1:1-11. Eat fowl. It is traditional on this day to eat fowl since fowl fly up into heaven. This usually includes birds like doves, ducks, or pheasants. Since that might be hard to come by, make something with chicken or turkey. Make cookies with a bird-shaped cookie cutter. In western Germany, bakers sold pastries in bird shapes Hike a mountain or hill. Just as Jesus led his disciples up a mountain before he ascended, people enjoy hiking to the highest place in their area and having a picnic or flying kites. If you don’t live by a hill or mountain, go to a field or beach. Catch crickets. No one knows why anymore but in some parts of Italy, they catch crickets and exchange them with friends. Families throw a picnic while the children look for crickets, which tradition says bring blessings. Read this awesome children’s book - Breathe: A Children’s Guide to the Ascension by Laura Alary. Make Divinity to symbolize the clouds in the sky. Divinity 2 ½ cups sugar ½ cup water ½ cup light corn syrup ¼ teaspoon salt 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Cook the first four ingredients in a heavy 2-quart saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves and a candy thermometer registers 248 degrees(about 15 minutes). Remove the syrup mixture from the heat. Beat egg whites at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Pour half of the hot syrup in a thin stream over egg whites, constantly beating at high speed, for about five minutes. Cook the remaining half of the syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until a candy thermometer registers 272 degrees(about four to five minutes). Slowly pour the hot syrup and vanilla extract over the egg white mixture, beating constantly at high speed until the mixture holds its shape (about six to eight minutes). Stir in one cup of chopped pecans. Drop mixture quickly by rounded teaspoonfuls onto lightly greased wax paper. Allow to cool.

As I began my journey through the liturgical year, I often wondered how we got the food traditions that we have. For instance, why do we eat watermelon at the Feast of Saint Bartholomew? Why do we eat Cuccia made from wheat berries for the Feast of Saint Lucy? The answer is actually quite simple: those things were in season at the time of the feast day. Throughout history, Christians around the world celebrated the liturgical year with meals that reflected both the seasons and the land where they lived. They gathered whatever was fresh and available in their region and transformed it into meals that honored the feasts and fasts of the Church. In Sicily, wheat berries were eaten for St. Lucia in December because wheat was a staple food, and the dish commemorated God’s provision during famine. In late August, watermelon appeared on tables for St. Bartholomew because it ripened during the heat of summer. In England, hot cross buns were baked during Lent and Easter when spices and dried fruits from winter stores were still available. In France, families feasted on galette des rois during Epiphany using butter, eggs, and preserved fruits saved for winter celebrations. These traditions were not carefully curated for aesthetics or novelty. They were born naturally from a people who lived close to the land and ordered their lives around the rhythms of the Church. The liturgical year and the agricultural year were deeply intertwined. Feast days arrived as strawberries ripened, apples were harvested, wheat was gathered, or citrus came into season. Christians received these gifts with gratitude and folded them into their celebrations as a way of sanctifying time itself. This practice wasn’t just about practicality; it was a profound way of living in harmony with God’s creation and appreciating the gifts He provides throughout the year. Before refrigeration and modern shipping, people simply ate what God provided in its season. There was anticipation and longing built into this way of life. Tomatoes were not expected in winter, and citrus was not available year-round. The arrival of certain foods marked the turning of the seasons and became woven into the memory of the feasts themselves. In our modern world, where convenience often trumps tradition, it is easy to forget the richness that comes from eating seasonally. We can buy strawberries in December and apples in June without ever considering where they came from or what season we are in. Food has become disconnected from the earth, and often from gratitude itself. Yet there is something profoundly grounding about returning to this practice. When we choose to celebrate the liturgical year with foods that are in season, we reconnect with the natural rhythms established by a loving God who blesses us with bounty. We begin to notice again the world around the God who sustains it and us. Eating seasonally also teaches us something important about the Christian life: there are seasons for everything. Seasons of feasting and seasons of fasting. Seasons of abundance and seasons of waiting. The Church calendar gently forms us through these rhythms year after year. The rich foods of Christmas and Easter feel more joyful after the simplicity of Advent and Lent. Fresh spring vegetables during Eastertide feel celebratory after the soups and preserved foods of winter. Even our meals begin to proclaim the story of redemption. Practical Ways to Get Started Know Your Seasons: Start by familiarizing yourself with what’s in season in your area. Local farmers’ markets are wonderful places to learn about seasonal produce and even gain inspiration for your meals. Take note of what appears and disappears throughout the year. Plan Liturgical Feasts: As you plan your liturgical celebrations, think about how you can incorporate seasonal foods into your menus. A Lenten soup might feature spring onions and fresh greens. Pentecost could include strawberries or bright red foods. Michaelmas in autumn might feature apples, blackberries, or roast chicken. Advent desserts can incorporate winter spices, dried fruits, and citrus. Try Traditional Recipes: Look up traditional recipes connected to feast days and liturgical seasons. Many of these dishes have been passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in the seasonal bounty of their regions. These recipes connect us not only to the Church calendar but also to Christians throughout history who celebrated these same feasts around their own tables. Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to adapt recipes based on what is available where you live. The goal is not rigid historical reenactment, but learning to notice and celebrate God’s provision in your own region and season. Involve the Family: Make this a family affair. Bring your children to the farmers’ market, let them help prepare meals, and teach them why certain foods are connected to certain feasts. Over time, these traditions become part of the memory and culture of your home. The smell of cinnamon may begin to signal Advent. Fresh berries may remind them of Pentecost. Warm soups and homemade bread may speak of Lent. When we begin to eat with the seasons of the Church and the seasons of the earth, we slowly recover something many Christians before us understood well: all of creation points back to God. Every harvest, every feast, every loaf of bread, and every shared meal becomes an opportunity to give thanks to the One from whom all good things come.

Rogation Days come right before Ascension Day (May 14th) and are a time set aside to pray for God’s blessing on the land and the sea and the bounty that comes from them. They start on the sixth Sunday of Easter, May 10th, which is known as “Rogation Sunday” since it is the Sunday that precedes the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday known as the “Rogation Days.” As Christ prepares to ascend, we are reminded of our deep dependence on God for all things, both physical and spiritual, and we turn to Him in prayer. Rogation Days originated in the 5th century in Vienne, France, and were created in response to a series of natural disasters that hit the area. The bishop of the area, Bishop Mamertus, called his people to days of fasting and prayer. They prayed that God would have mercy on the growth of their crops and spare them from famine. The word “rogation” comes from the Latin rogare and means “to ask.” During Rogation Days, Christians would gather at their church and participate in processions around the parish called “The Beating of the Bounds.” The congregation would gather together and walk the boundary of the parish, beating the border of the parish with willow branches. As they walked, they prayed litanies, asking for God’s mercy and blessing over their land. If they lived by water, they would also pray for the blessing of the water. This tradition was also known in the northern parts of England as “Gang-day” or “gan week,” after the old English word for walking. Once the parish boundaries were “beaten,” the community would gather for a celebration. They would drink “ganging beer,” which was beer brewed for the day, and share simple foods together. To this day, Christians celebrate Rogation Days as a way to give thanks to God for the gifts of creation and to pray for His blessing on the land, crops, and the people who work the land. It is also traditionally a time of repentance—a time to humble ourselves before God, recognizing our dependence on Him and turning our hearts back to Him. If you live on the coast, it might be referred to as the “blessing of the fleet.” Most of us have become disconnected from the food we eat and where it comes from. What once required daily dependence on God now feels immediate and guaranteed. Rogation Days are a beautiful time to be reminded that our lives and the food that we eat are in God’s hands. It is a time to be mindful of this and to pray for all of those who work so hard to bring us the food that we eat. It is a time to pray for bountiful harvests, for protection from natural disasters, and for God’s mercy over the land. It is also a time to offer thanks for creation, those who tend it, and the food that we eat. Ways to celebrate: Starting on Rogation Sunday, during your normal time of prayer, light a candle and read the special collect for the day. A collect is a short prayer, especially one assigned to a particular day or season. Gather bunches of sticks or reeds with your children and go around the edge of your yard, offering prayers of thanksgiving for your home and asking God to bless your space. Pray for all of those who work the land or fish the seas for our food. Support local farmers or fishermen in your area by buying food from them. Traditionally, people ate foods from the first fruits of the harvest, like new potatoes or beans. Try this delicious dish - Marinated Green Beans. the recipe - Marinated Green Beans with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed ¼ cup olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 (8-ounce) package of crumbled feta 1 bunch of fresh oregano sprigs Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Add green beans; cook until slightly tender, but still crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Immediately drain green beans and plunge them into ice water to stop cooking further. Drain beans and place them in a shallow serving dish. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic in oil for about 30 seconds. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in olives, tomatoes, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over green beans; toss together until beans are evenly coated. Sprinkle feta cheese on top and garnish with oregano sprigs. Chill at least 3 hours before serving.

We are still in Easter. Fifty days of celebrating the resurrection, fifty days of feasting, light, and quiet joy that carries beyond a single Sunday. One of the ways I’ve come to love marking the Easter season in our home is with flowers. There’s something about bringing in signs of new life, fresh, simple, visible, that helps us remember what we’re actually celebrating. Lately, I’ve been seeing beautiful images of blossoming branches in vases, filling homes with soft color and movement. Living along the coast, I don’t have many flowering trees nearby, so I thought it would be fun to make my own. On a morning walk, I found a branch that seemed perfect for a white ceramic pitcher I often use for arrangements. From there, I created my own version of blooming branches using tissue paper. You can make this as full or as minimal as you like. Choose a container that balances the height of your branches, and use whatever colors you have on hand. I used two shades of pink, but soft whites, creams, or even brighter spring colors would be just as lovely. This is an easy, approachable way to bring the beauty of the season into your home, and as always, I had children in mind while putting it together. It’s simple enough to do together, and meaningful enough to keep on display throughout the Easter season. And with Mother’s Day approaching, this makes a sweet and thoughtful gift as well, something handmade, simple, and full of life. A small way to mark the season.A small way to make something beautiful. Happy Easter. the craft - Tissue Paper Cherry Blossom Arrangement Supplies: Branches Container (you could use mason jars with small twigs, a pitcher, a vase, etc.) Tissue paper (I used two shades of pink, but you could use yellow, white, or lavender. Really, any color will do!) Clear Glue or Hot Glue (I used hot glue and clear glue in case you have little children and don't want them to burn themselves. Both worked just fine.) Scissors Ruler A retractable pen Measure and cut out 3" X 3" squares of your two different colors of tissue paper. Stack the squares and cut into a four-petal shape. This is not an exact science! Your shapes might look rough, but the next steps will hide any flaws. Overlay a petal shape from each color. Take the end of a retractable pen that has been retracted and push it into the center of the two pieces of tissue paper. Push the shapes over the pin and lightly twist the tip. Set aside. Continue making blossoms until you have enough to cover each branch tip. Add a branch or branches to your container. Hot glue or glue the tips of the petals to the ends of your branches. If you are using hot glue, it should be done by an adult rather than a child. It is too easy to burn yourself. I used hot and clear school glue, and preferred the clear school glue. It did not burn, and it did not leave those long threads of hot glue everywhere. Keep gluing on blossoms until all of the branch tips are covered. Happy Easter!

Coming up on May 1st (Anglican) or May 3rd (Catholic), the Feast of St. Philip and St. James invites us into the lives of two of Christ’s chosen apostles, men who followed Him, proclaimed His resurrection, and helped lay the foundation of the Church. Though less well-known than Peter or John, their faithfulness and quiet courage shaped the spread of the Gospel in its earliest days. This is a beautiful feast to mark in the home, especially in the springtime, as it reminds us that the Church itself is always growing, rooted in Christ and built through the witness of ordinary, faithful people. Who Were St. Philip and St. James? St. Philip Philip’s story begins with a simple but powerful moment: Jesus calls him, and he follows. There’s no hesitation recorded, just obedience. And almost immediately, Philip turns outward. He seeks out Nathanael and tells him, with excitement and conviction, that they have found the One promised in the Scriptures. When Nathanael doubts that anything good could come from Nazareth, Philip doesn’t argue or try to convince him with clever reasoning. He simply says, “Come and see.”It’s a simple invitation, one that still echoes in the life of the Church. Later, when a great crowd gathers and there is no food, Jesus turns to Philip and asks where bread can be bought. Philip responds practically, calculating the cost and recognizing the impossibility of feeding so many people. He sees the limits clearly. And yet, he remains present, watching as Jesus transforms what little they have into abundance. Philip’s realism becomes a quiet backdrop for Christ’s miracle. At another moment, a group of Greeks approaches Philip because they want to see Jesus. Philip doesn’t act alone; he brings Andrew with him, and together they go to Jesus. Even here, we see something of his character, he is a bridge, someone who brings others closer to Christ, even when he’s unsure of the next step. Perhaps most tenderly, during the Last Supper, Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father. It is a deeply human request, a desire for clarity, for something visible and certain. Jesus responds with both gentleness and truth: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” In that moment, Philip is invited into a deeper understanding of who Christ truly is. Philip’s journey is one many of us recognize: eager, questioning, practical, and slowly drawn into deeper faith. St. James (James the Less) James the Less is named among the Twelve Apostles, chosen by Christ, present among those who followed Him closely, and sent out to proclaim the Gospel. And yet, in the Gospel accounts, he remains mostly in the background. We are not given detailed stories or spoken words from him in the way we are with Peter or John. And yet, there is something quiet about his witness. He is there, faithful, present, obedient, but not prominent. His calling is not marked by recorded questions or dramatic moments, but by steady inclusion among those closest to Christ. The Church has long remembered him as the son of Alphaeus, and he is often called “the Less,” not as a sign of lesser importance, but perhaps simply to distinguish him from the other apostle named James. After the resurrection, the apostles were sent out into the world, each carrying the Gospel into different regions. While Scripture does not give us detailed accounts of James the Less’s ministry, tradition holds that he, too, labored faithfully to preach Christ and help establish the early Church, eventually giving his life as a martyr. Their Ministry and Death Philip’s Mission After Pentecost, tradition holds that Philip traveled far from his homeland, bringing the Gospel into regions where Christ was not yet known. In places like modern day Turkey, he preached boldly, calling people away from idols and toward the living God. His faithfulness came at a cost. As the story is handed down, his preaching led to conflict with local authorities, and he was ultimately martyred, remaining steadfast even unto death. His life reflects a willingness to go wherever Christ leads, even when the path is difficult. James’ Ministry and Martyrdom Because Scripture gives us very few details about James the Less beyond naming him among the Twelve, much of what we know of his later ministry comes from tradition rather than the biblical narrative. After Pentecost, James the Less is remembered as one of the apostles who carried the Gospel outward from Jerusalem, preaching Christ and helping establish the Church in its earliest generations. Various traditions place his ministry in different regions, but they agree in honoring him as a faithful apostolic witness. His martyrdom is also remembered in different ways across Christian tradition. Some accounts say he was crucified; others associate his death with preaching the Gospel in foreign lands. Because these details are less certain, what we can say with confidence is this: James the Less remained faithful to Christ and was honored by the Church as an apostle and martyr. Why Are They Celebrated Together? Philip and James share a feast day because their relics were brought to Rome and honored together in the Church of the Holy Apostles. Over time, the Church kept their memory united in the liturgical calendar. Bringing the Feast into Your Home This feast lends itself beautifully to simple, meaningful celebration, especially for families seeking to live the liturgical year with intention. 1. Read and Reflect Together Read a passage from Philip’s story, his invitation to Nathanael or his question at the Last Supper. Discuss the scene together. 2. Build Something Together Since the apostles are the “foundation” of the Church: Build with blocks, stones, or even bake something layered Talk about what makes a strong foundation Connect it to habits of faith in your home 3. Practice Invitation Philip invited others to “come and see.” Mark the feast by: Inviting a friend over Including someone new Reaching out with intentional kindness 4. Make Bread Since St. Phillip’s recorded interaction with Jesus involved bread, make this simple and delicious braided bread. A Gentle Invitation The Feast of St. Philip and St. James is a quiet one, but perhaps that is its gift. These are not the loudest or most well-known apostles. And yet, through their steady faith, the Church was built. They remind us that asking questions, extending invitations, and persevering in small ways, these are the very things God uses to grow His Church. And that work continues, even now, in our homes. the recipe - Braided Loaf Bread Dough: 3/4 cup warm water (95 to 110 degrees) One 1/4-ounce packet active dry yeast 3 teaspoons sugar 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for the work surface 1 teaspoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons canola oil 2 large eggs cooking spray Topping: 1 large egg 1 teaspoon heavy cream 2 teaspoons sesame seeds To make the dough: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of the warm water, the yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. In a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the flour, remaining 2 teaspoons sugar, and the salt. With the mixer on low speed, pour in the yeast mixture, the remaining 1/2 cup warm water, the oil, and eggs. Mix on medium speed for 5 minutes, until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides. Spray a large bowl lightly with cooking spray and place the dough in the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 3 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and then into a 15-inch-long rope. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Place the 3 ropes parallel to one another on the pan. Starting at one end of the dough ropes, carefully braid them. Pinch the ends to seal and tuck the ends underneath the braid so that only the braid shows. Lightly cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise until pillowy, about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. To prepare the topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cream. Gently brush it over the dough. Sprinkle the dough with the sesame seeds. Bake until golden brown, about 28 minutes. Let the loaf cool for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 40 minutes, before serving. Recipe from www.magnolia.com

The Feast of St. Mark is coming up on April 25th. As we continue through the season of Easter, the Church gives us days like this, opportunities to pause and remember the lives of those who carried the gospel forward in the earliest days. These feasts help ground us in the history of the Church and remind us that the story we are living in did not begin with us. Saint Mark was a follower of Jesus and is traditionally remembered as the author of the Gospel of Mark. He was a companion of the apostles Paul and Peter. According to tradition, Mark was born in Jerusalem and was the son of a woman whose home was a gathering place for the early Church, associated with both the Last Supper and Pentecost. Mark was a disciple of Peter and is said to have accompanied him to Rome, serving as his secretary and writing down his teachings and sermons. Mark was also the cousin of Barnabas and traveled with Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey. At one point, however, Mark left them and returned home, which caused a sharp disagreement with Paul. Later, this relationship was restored, and Mark became a close companion to Paul once again. St. Mark eventually traveled to Alexandria, where he founded the Church of Alexandria. He became its first bishop and is often considered the father of Christianity in Africa. He was martyred around AD 68. St. Mark is often depicted writing his Gospel, with a palm branch symbolizing his martyrdom, or alongside a winged lion. The winged lion comes from the vision in Ezekiel 1:10, where it is believed that the four living creatures came to be associated with the four Gospel writers. Mark is also remembered as the author of the Gospel that bears his name, though according to tradition, he did not write it as an independent account, but as one who carefully recorded what he had received. A Faithful Witness According to tradition, Mark was a close companion of the apostle Peter and wrote down Peter’s teachings and recollections of Jesus. In this way, the Gospel of Mark has long been understood as preserving the preaching of Peter, faithfully passed on through Mark. This also helps explain the character of Mark’s Gospel. It is direct and immediate, moving quickly from one event to the next, as though it is being proclaimed aloud. It reflects the voice of someone sharing what he has seen and heard, and of one who is eager to pass that testimony on to others. Mark himself seems to have been part of the earliest Christian community in Jerusalem. According to tradition, his family home was a gathering place for believers, associated with both the Last Supper and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. From the beginning, then, he was formed within the life of the Church. In time, Mark is again spoken of as a trusted companion. His life reflects something we see often in the early Church: growth, reconciliation, and a steady faithfulness over time. What stands out most about Mark is not prominence, but faithfulness. He received the testimony of the apostles, preserved it, and carried it forward. Because of this, the Church continues to read his Gospel and remember his witness. Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Mark Read and Reflect Read Acts 15:37–39 and Colossians 4:10. Notice the difference in how Paul speaks about Mark in each passage. This can be a starting point for conversation about the reconciliation that occurs when we follow Jesus and are submitted to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Prepare a Traditional Dish Make Risi e Bisi (rice and peas), a traditional Venetian dish associated with the feast. (Recipe shared at the end of the post.) St. Mark became closely associated with the city of Venice after his relics were brought there in the ninth century, and he came to be honored as its patron saint. Because of this, his feast day became an important civic celebration in the city. Risi e Bisi , made with fresh spring peas, was traditionally prepared and served to the Doge on this day. The dish reflects both the season in which the feast falls and the life of the city that came to celebrate it. Mark the Day with Flowers Put out red roses. If you have children, give each child a red rose. In Venice, St. Mark’s Day is also known as Festa del Bocolo , or the Rosebud Festival. According to a well-known Venetian legend, a man of humble background fell in love with a noblewoman. In order to win her father’s approval, he went off to war. After being mortally wounded, he picked a rose for her, and a companion returned it to her on his behalf. The rose, stained with his blood, became a symbol of love and sacrifice. Because of this, it became customary in Venice to give a single rosebud on St. Mark’s Day. Set a Simple Table Since palm branches are a symbol of martyrdom, you might decorate your table with palms as a quiet reminder of St. Mark’s witness. Feast days like this give us a way to enter more deeply into the life of the Church, not only by remembering, but by participating. They remind us that the faith has been handed down, lived out, and carried forward by real people, in real places, over time. And they give us simple ways to begin doing the same in our own homes. the recipe - Risi e Bisi (Rice and Peas) 4 cups chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 8 slices of bacon 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 rounded cup Arborio rice Salt and pepper 1 cup frozen peas 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Romano cheese Mint or parsley, chopped Place chicken stock in a small pot and warm over low heat. In a heavy saucepan, add the oil and onion and cook until it begins to soften. Add the bacon and cook for another five minutes or so, until it begins to release its fat. Add garlic. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Stir in the rice and cook until all the grains are well coated with fat and begin to look translucent, then turn up the heat a little and add a ladleful of stock. Bring to a bubble. Stir rice occasionally, allowing the rice to get starchy and the stock to cook into the rice. Add more stock when the rice starts to become dry. Continue stirring and ladling broth until the rice is al dente, 22 minutes. Stir in peas and cheese and season with salt and pepper, to your taste. Top with the herbs. Serve immediately.

From the first Easter morning to the present day, Christians around the world have greeted one another with the Easter proclamation: Alleluia! Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! This is not just a tradition or a poetic phrase. It is a declaration of reality. Jesus Christ is not dead, He is alive! Through His resurrection, sin and death have been defeated, and we have been reconciled to God. Our joy is not quiet or restrained. It is the kind of joy that must be spoken, proclaimed, and shared. As Jesus said in Luke 19:40, if we were silent, even the stones would cry out. Where This Greeting Comes From The Easter greeting is not something the Church created later as a beautiful tradition, but something that grows directly out of the first Easter itself. In the Gospel accounts, the Resurrection is always announced out loud. The angel declares to the women at the tomb, “He is not here; he has risen.” The women then go and tell the disciples, and the disciples in turn repeat it to one another. The news spreads in this same way again and again—by being spoken. From the very beginning, the Resurrection was not only something believed, but something proclaimed. It is not difficult to see how, in the life of the early Church, this proclamation would begin to take on a more regular and recognizable form. Christians, especially during the season of Easter, began greeting one another with this same truth, speaking it aloud as both a reminder and a confession of faith. In time, this developed into the familiar exchange we still use today: Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. A Living Proclamation Christians greeted one another with the truth of the Resurrection, not as a symbolic phrase or a poetic expression, but as a statement of what they believed to be true. These short proclamations were learned by heart and spoken often, shaping both belief and understanding over time. In this way, the Easter greeting functioned almost like a living creed within the life of the Church. To say “Christ is risen” was to remind one another of the center of the faith, and to respond “He is risen indeed” was to affirm it. Through this simple exchange, the truth of the Resurrection was continually placed at the forefront of daily life. Why It Is Said This Way The call-and-response pattern of the Easter greeting reflects the way Christians had already learned to worship. Throughout Scripture and in the earliest life of the Church, worship often followed this pattern of proclamation and response. We see it in the Psalms, in the reading of Scripture, and in the shared prayers of the Church, where one voice speaks and the people answer. The Easter greeting follows this same pattern. One person proclaims, “Christ is risen,” and another responds, “The Lord is risen indeed.” In this way, the greeting becomes a shared confession, in which the truth of the Resurrection is both declared and affirmed. Alleluia Let’s begin with the word Alleluia . Alleluia is the Greek form of the Hebrew Hallelujah , which means “Praise the Lord.” In the Psalms, it appears as two words: Hallel (praise) and Jah (the Lord). Together, it is the highest expression of praise we can offer to God. Early Christians preserved this word carefully, choosing not to translate it. Instead, they carried it directly into their worship as a word of joy, thanksgiving, and triumph. We see it even in the earliest Christian liturgies, including the fourth-century Liturgy of St. Mark . Christ is Risen The phrase “Christ is Risen!” comes from the Gospel accounts of the Resurrection. In Matthew 28, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary come to the tomb and find it empty. An angel tells them: “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” (Matthew 28:5–6) This is the first proclamation of the Resurrection, the announcement that changes everything. The Lord is Risen Indeed The response, “The Lord is Risen Indeed,” comes from Luke 24. After Jesus reveals Himself to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, they return to Jerusalem and are greeted with these words: “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” (Luke 24:34) This call-and-response pattern has continued ever since, echoing across centuries and continents. The Easter Liturgy The Easter Greeting can be found in the Church’s earliest liturgies. In the Great Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, we move through the lighting of the Paschal Candle, the reading of the Exultet, the baptisms, and finally we arrive at the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. It is at this moment, when we are about to partake of the body and blood of Christ, that the priest stands before God’s people and leads them in this ancient greeting. Alleluia! Christ is Risen!The Lord is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! From that point forward, this greeting is “unleashed” into the life of the Church. For the next fifty days, Christians around the world use it to greet one another, sometimes even exchanging the kiss of peace as they do. A Resurrection Reminder The Easter Greeting is more than a way of saying hello. It is a proclamation of faith. Each time we say it, we are reminding ourselves, and one another, that the Resurrection is not only something that happened in the past, but something that shapes our present reality. It calls us to live as people who truly believe that Christ is alive. Alleluia! Christ is Risen!The Lord is Risen Indeed! Alleluia! If you are looking for ways to carry this season into your home, I share more about celebrating Eastertide, both its meaning and its practices, on Substack and in my guide, The Liturgical Home: Easter . Let us keep the feast!

Easter is not just a single day; it is a whole season, and it is meant to be celebrated. For fifty days, the Church lingers in the joy of the Resurrection. We are invited not to move on too quickly, but to remain here, learning how to live in the reality that Christ is risen and that this changes everything. One of the things I have been thinking about this year is how to carry that joy into ordinary life at home. Not in a complicated or overwhelming way, but in small, tangible practices that help mark the season. Along the way, I’ll be sharing both simple ways to celebrate Eastertide and some of the deeper meanings behind the traditions of the season, because both matter, and both help shape us over time. One of the simplest ways I’ve found to begin is with food. There is something fitting about marking a season of feasting with something beautiful and a little indulgent, something that feels set apart from the ordinary rhythm of the week. This week, I found myself wanting a dessert that felt rich and celebratory, something that invites you to slow down and enjoy it. Tiramisu immediately came to mind. This classic Italian dessert, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy custard, is simple to make but feels special enough for the season. It’s the kind of dessert that naturally turns an ordinary evening into something a little more intentional. So if you’re looking for a small way to begin celebrating Eastertide at home, this is a good place to start. the recipe - Tiramisu Custard: 2/3 cup whole milk 6 egg yolks 3/4 cup sugar 1 pound cream cheese, room temperature Ladyfinger Coffee Mixture: 1 1/2 packages ladyfingers 1/2 cup hot water 2-3 tablespoons rum 2 tablespoons instant coffee Whipped Cream: 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for dusting To make the tiramisu filling: In a saucepan, heat up the milk on medium-high heat. While it’s heating, add the 6 egg yolks and 3/4 cup of sugar. Whisk constantly. After a few minutes, the custard will thicken to an almost pudding-like consistency. Pour the custard into a bowl, place plastic wrap directly on top of the custard, and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, add whipping cream. Whip on high soft peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla and beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. To assemble the tiramisu: In a 9x11-inch dish, lay the ladyfingers to cover the bottom of the dish. (You might need to cut them to make them fit). In a small bowl, stir together hot water, rum, and instant coffee until dissolved. Using a pastry brush, generously brush each ladyfinger with the coffee mixture. Add cooled custard mixture to cream cheese and blend until combined. Smooth 1/2 of the custard mixture on top of the ladyfingers, then 1/2 of the whipped cream. Add another layer of ladyfingers, brush with the coffee mixture, and repeat until both layers are complete. Dust cocoa powder generously over the top. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. I hope this recipe brings as much joy as it did to us!