.jpeg)
Our Humble Recommendation
We respectfully propose that Christian and non-Christian institutions in India and across the world come together to celebrate Easter as the Faith Festival of all Christians, with the participation of people of other religions. Likewise, Christians are encouraged to joyfully participate in the faith festivals of other traditions such as Diwali, Eid ul-Fitr, Pongal, Holi, and Guru Nanak Jayanti as a sign of mutual respect and fraternity. When celebrated at an interreligious level, such festivals may preferably be organised in neutral public or cultural spaces rather than within places of worship, enabling people of all faiths to participate freely. Such shared celebrations can become a powerful witness to unity in diversity, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.
.jpeg)
Endorsement and Appreciation
Easter Celebration' 26
When every religion stands together, humanity becomes one.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) | The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue
This proposal for an Inter-Religious and Ecumenical Easter Celebration has been warmly welcomed and encouraged at the ecclesial level. The vision of celebrating Easter as the Faith Festival of all Christians, rooted in dialogue and fraternity, resonates deeply with the mission of the Church today. The initiative has received affirmation and appreciation from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, recognising it as a meaningful witness of Christian unity, faith, and commitment to peace, and inspiring renewed confidence that Easter, celebrated together and shared with all, can become a powerful sign of reconciliation and hope in India and beyond.
Levels of Celebration
THE ROLE OF
PRIESTS
Help our people rediscover the importance of Easter.
Bring different Christian Churches together.
Encourage public expressions of Christian faith.
Connect parishes with schools, universities and community organisations.
THE ROLE OF
CHURCHES
Since Easter is envisioned as the Faith Festival of all Christians (in the same manner as Christmas is celebrated), either as a week-long celebration or as a one-day programme, the active involvement and pastoral guidance of the Episcopal Churches is essential.
Their leadership and pastoral presence would strengthen the spirit of Christian unity and ensure broader ecclesial participation.
The celebration can invite as many non-Christians as possible to participate and share a meal together, and include youth cultural programmes, debates, dialogues, and interreligious gatherings.
THE ROLE OF
Educational Institutions
Every school, college, and university is a cultural centre where values and respect for diversity are nurtured. Educational institutions should celebrate all major religious festivals with openness and mutual respect.
Young people should come into streets and public spaces to celebrate and proclaim the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“If we have a strong conviction in our own faith, why can’t we celebrate others?”