From church services, family dinners and a time to celebrate, the resurrection of Jesus Christ brings families and loved ones together.
Easter is one of the most significant holidays for Christians. Different denominations of Christianity participate in different Easter traditions like Lent, the practice in giving up something, traditionally meat, in the weeks leading up to Easter Sunday.
“Growing up in a strong Catholic home, Lent has always been taken seriously and is a personal spiritual experience and reflection for me,” junior Matthew Shaeger said. “It’s less about where I’ve fallen short but embracing Christ and strengthening our relationship with him.”
This year Easter falls on the weekend before finals which can be a taunting week for many students.
Due to this, not all students are heading home for the weekend. Many are staying on campus by choice due to travel costs and to study for finals.
“I’m the only Christian in my family, so it is hard to go home and celebrate when it is just myself,” sophomore Gabe Gyorgy said. “I like to stay here on campus because it allows me to keep my relationship strong with God.”
Others that are staying behind this Easter break have an opportunity to join local churches in the Marion area that are providing a meal and celebration in order to grow their connections in the community.
The River Church, located in Marion is hosting an egg hunt during both of the services on Saturday and Sunday.
“It is important to spend time with our loved ones and celebrate what Jesus Christ has done for us,” Myles Cox said.“Being able to reflect on our relationships with God while spending quality time with our families is extremely important to me.”
Whether students, faculty or local community are reflecting, having a joyful celebration or just a weekend to themselves, Easter is a meaningful time for the IWU community.
Each person has their own story and traditionals that follow, being able to celebrate the rebirth of Christ is significant in everyone’s lives because it shows the hope and assurance of what is possible through Christ.
