I have many fond memories of Easter Sundays as a little girl. I loved my smocked Easter dresses, bouquets of fresh flowers, and singing my favorite hymns at church. My favorite Easter tradition was dying Easter eggs. My sister, Janice, and I always loved picking out the most beautiful color combinations and elegant designs for our eggs. Now, dying Easter eggs is a tradition that I enjoy continuing with my grandchildren.
There are a variety of stories about the origin of Easter eggs, but it is commonly believed that these eggs began as a religious symbol. Easter eggs date back to around the 13th century when Christians dyed eggs red to represent the blood of Jesus. The shell was believed to represent Jesus’ tomb while the cracking of the shell symbolized his resurrection from the dead. Historically, Christians abstained from eating eggs and meat during Lent. Dying eggs was part of the Easter celebration where Christians were able to return to eating eggs.
Egg hunts and egg rolls are other traditions associated with Easter eggs. It is not known precisely when these traditions began, but some Christians have viewed Easter egg rolls as a symbol of the rolling away of the stone from Jesus’ tomb. The most notable Easter egg roll is the annual event held at the White House. It began during the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes.
Easter egg hunts are also a popular tradition that I know many of us grew up with. I had a special Easter basket that I filled to the brim with my spoils from the egg hunt. From Easter baskets and Easter dresses to everything in between, I hope that this season is rich with memories for you and those you love.
Do you have a favorite Easter memory?
