While Easter is a time of joy as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, it can also be an opportunity for us to learn more about the history of Christian practices.
Here are answers to some frequently asked Easter questions posed to Ask The UMC:
How is Friday through Sunday three days?
The gospels all attest that Jesus rose from the dead early on the first day of the week, which is Sunday. In Biblical times, a new day began at sunset and modern “hours” were not a unit of measure.
The vast majority of Christians, including United Methodists, have used the following means to arrive at the timing of what is called the Great Three Days:
- Thursday evening: Sundown marks the beginning of the first day, when the Last Supper occurs and Jesus is arrested and tried.
- Friday morning: First day continues and Jesus is executed, removed from the cross and buried.
- Friday sundown: Second day begins.
- Saturday: Jesus lies in the tomb.
- Saturday sundown: Third day begins.
- Sunday morning: Third day continues and Jesus is raised from the dead.
Why is Easter on a different day each year?
In 325 AD, the Council of Nicea set the date for the celebration of Easter as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. For this reason, the date will change each year and can fall anywhere from March 22 to April 25.
Is Easter only a day, or is it a season?
Easter is a fifty-day season, stretching from sunset on the eve of Easter to Pentecost. This season is more than an extended celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. Its original purpose was the continued formation of new Christians, who were usually baptized on Easter Sunday.
Today, this season gives us time to rejoice and to prepare for the ministries the Spirit has empowered us to undertake in Jesus’ name. Many churches spend the season teaching the theology of the sacraments or helping people discern their spiritual gifts.
Laura Buchanan works for UMC.org at United Methodist Communications. Contact her by email.
This story was published on March 28, 2025.
