Catholic Identity

Easter Questions Answered

Why Chocolate eggs?

The egg is also an ancient symbol of new life and in that way is also a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

What is Easter is really about?

On Good Friday, Christians recognise that on this day Jesus was crucified on the cross. Explaining death to children can be tough. If your child has questions about death, reassure them first and foremost that we are safe and well. Talk about the fact that the cycle of life means that one day the people in their lives will die and go to heaven where they will be with God; but that won’t happen for a long time.

Remember, Easter is about much more than the death of Jesus; it is about his rising and this is the exciting part of the story that parents should focus on when talking about Easter with your child. The message is about renewal, forgiveness and love for one another leading us all to live better lives.

Why does Lent last for 40 days and what happens during the Lenten season?

The reason that Lent lasts for 40 days is because it represents the time that Jesus spent in the desert where he was hungry and thirsty, but remained resolute in his trust in God. The lesson to share with children about this is that God has given them trusted people in their lives, such as their parents and grandparents, who are here for them to talk to when they feel unsure or unsafe or when they are worried. Remind them that they are loved by you and by God and you will keep them safe. By the way, if you have done the maths, the days add up to more than 40 because we do not count Sundays, as this was the day Jesus rose from the dead.

The stories of Easter can teach us very important messages about how to live – here is one example

Your children may hear the story of the washing of the feet from the Gospel of John. In Jesus Christ’s time, after walking the dusty streets in only sandals, servants would wash their master’s feet to clean them. Jesus took the cloth and water and in an act of humility, love and service, gave us an example to live by. No one person is better than another and this is a very important message to share with children during Easter.