The Aryavarth Express:
Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 5:
Easter was celebrated with deep religious fervour and devotion at the Sacred Heart Church in Udaiyarpatti, Tirunelveli district, as thousands of Christians gathered on Sunday to participate in special prayers and Mass.
A large number of devotees assembled at the church to take part in the Easter Mass, where worshippers shared candlelight with one another, symbolising hope, faith, and renewal. The faithful also renewed their baptismal vows and offered prayers while holding candles, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Easter, one of the most significant festivals in Christianity, marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who was crucified and rose again on the third day. The festival is being celebrated across Tamil Nadu and other parts of the world with joy and devotion, with churches conducting special Masses and prayer services.
In the lead-up to Easter, Christians observed the 40-day Lenten period, which began on February 18 with Ash Wednesday. During this time, devotees engaged in fasting, prayers, pilgrimages, meditations, and participated in the Way of the Cross, reflecting on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The final week of Lent, known as Holy Week, began with Palm Sunday, followed by Maundy Thursday on April 2 and Good Friday on April 3, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
At the Sacred Heart Church, special rituals marked the occasion, including a symbolic observance where the church lights were turned off and the resurrection of Jesus Christ was reenacted through candlelight, enhancing the spiritual experience.
The celebrations concluded with a special sermon by Parish Priest Michael Rasu and pastoral worker Rajesh, followed by the Holy Mass. Thousands of devotees participated in the event, celebrating Easter with unity, faith, and devotion.
