KARACHI: Easter services on Sunday saw a shift from the solemn mood of the entire Holy Lent season. Christians living in the metropolis arrived at churches smiling and wearing new clothes, wishing each other a Happy Easter.

At the St Anthony’s Parish here, the day began a little before 9am with remembering all those who departed recently followed by offering thanks for all the good things that have also happened.

Then at 9am exactly, the church bells rang and it was time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, be glad and rejoice. The choir sang happy hymns and carols.

Cardinal Joseph Coutts, the second cardinal of Pakistan, led the prayers asking God Almighty to forgive everyone’s sins.

“There are lots of events taking place in Pakistan these days,” said the Cardinal. “We hear criticism about these happenings. Some are hopeful for betterment, some waiting to see the impact of the events,” he added, while giving examples of similar things that took place during the time of Jesus Christ when he was making waves as the messiah and some leaders came up with a conspiracy against him, telling people that he wanted to become a king.

“And despite Jesus Christ’s telling them that he was not there to cause anyone any trouble, he was killed. And the effect of that is that you are all here even today. Those who thought that they had gotten rid of him could not succeed in their plans because he was resurrected and appointed by God to judge all,” said Cardinal Coutts.

“Saints talk of how Jesus’ rising from the dead has renewed our faith. It has renewed us, too,” he said, asking people to never lose faith no matter what the circumstances.

“Today, there is Ukraine where there is no joy of Easter. They have been going through Good Friday for over 50 days now since Russia entered their country on February 24. Let’s pray for them, let’s pray that they can experience Easter. May the joy of resurrection change our lives,” Cardinal Coutts prayed.

Similar services were held in all the churches of the city, including those that come under the Church of Pakistan.

Also to celebrate the renewal of life the city’s bakeries, especially the bakeries in Saddar, had prepared Easter eggs. The eggs made of marzipan are hollow and they have filling of sweets and little toys inside them.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2022