As spring blooms in North Idaho, thousands of church-going folk dress up in light colored church clothes and prepare to celebrate Easter. For many, the holiday holds a deep spiritual significance that moves beyond the popular symbolism of eggs, rabbits and candy. 

At its core, Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an event believers say represent hope, redemption and eternal life. 

“It is the crescendo of getting to speak about Jesus” said Pastor John Anderson of Peace Lutheran Church, “It is the hope that we have in Him that we also will be joined in that resurrection and in that power over sin and death in this life and the life that is to come.”

For certain Christian denominations, the celebration of Easter begins weeks before, on Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent, which is observed with fasting, prayer, abstention from meat and a Lenten Sacrifice of an activity or lifestyle choice of which they will not partake in until the day of Easter.

The week of Easter is known as holy week, which is marked with reflection, repentance and the recollection of what the crucifixion of Christ really means. 

“What Jesus had to go through,” said churchgoer Gail Gutterud, “I wonder if everyone really recognizes what Jesus had to do to take away the sins of the world.”

Across congregations, traditions vary but often include morning services, communal meals, and a celebration on the themes of renewal. In some churches, congregations gather before dawn to symbolize the discovery of Jesus’ empty tomb.

For some denominations, Easter does not mark the end of celebration. In the weeks before, and then on the 49th day after Easter, Pentecost is celebrated, some call it Whit Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Christianity.

“Pentecost is like the next thing,” said Anderson, “You have the resurrection of Jesus and then his promise was, once he ascended, he would pour out his holy spirit… that resurrected Christ desires to be within us, to live inside of us and transform our lives.” 

While secular celebrations of Easter have grown in popularity, Christians emphasize the importance of keeping their focus on the spiritual message and the believed resurrection of Jesus.

“The cross and the resurrection is all about the finished work of Jesus.” said Pastor Seth Owens of The Heart in Coeur d’Alene, “This is something we receive. It is only by grace, through faith and this is the good news.” 

As families gather and church pews fill, Easter continues to serve as an important movement of reflection and celebration for believers around the world.