Flags are still at half-mask in Greece as people wait in anticipation. Half way through the morning the church doors are banged open and the candle holders are shaken in recognition that Christ is no longer in his grave.
By 11pm tonight people will be gathering outside the churches throughout Greece holding Lambades (candles), waiting for midnight when the church bells ring out and the Priest announces "Christos Anesti" - Christ has risen to which you reply "Alithos Anesti" (Truly he is risen). 'The Resurrection of Anastasis"!
The Priest lights the first candle of which the light gets passed around the church and to all waiting outside. The symbol of light has returned to the world.
Fireworks, firecrackers and dynamite sticks are set off throughout Greece. A few limbs can be lost! Ships send up flares and the noise of the fog horns are deafening.
By 11pm tonight people will be gathering outside the churches throughout Greece holding Lambades (candles), waiting for midnight when the church bells ring out and the Priest announces "Christos Anesti" - Christ has risen to which you reply "Alithos Anesti" (Truly he is risen). 'The Resurrection of Anastasis"!
The Priest lights the first candle of which the light gets passed around the church and to all waiting outside. The symbol of light has returned to the world.
Fireworks, firecrackers and dynamite sticks are set off throughout Greece. A few limbs can be lost! Ships send up flares and the noise of the fog horns are deafening.
With your lighted candle you attempt to make it home/or to your 'shop', so that you can make a cross 3 times above the door, to bless and give luck.
It's traditional to eat 'Magiritsa' soup, made from parts of the lamb or goat. It is the first morsel of meat that most people have had to eat in40 days (lent). Wine and retsina are usually drunk and the Festival of Easter begins.
After the soup many hit the bars/nightclubs (Bouzouki's) to 'rejoice' till the early hours of the morning!
....................................................................................
Whilst everyone has been making their soup and preparing the food for tomorrow. It's such a lovely day, I've been out with the children walking around the town. The Castle was open, and free today, so , we took the opportunity to go inside. It was built by the Knights of St John on the foundations of the ancient Castle and the walls of the Old City and is well worth a visit. spectacular views of the harbour and town. There are ancient temples, and artifacts and other remarkable pieces to view.
....................................................................................
Whilst everyone has been making their soup and preparing the food for tomorrow. It's such a lovely day, I've been out with the children walking around the town. The Castle was open, and free today, so , we took the opportunity to go inside. It was built by the Knights of St John on the foundations of the ancient Castle and the walls of the Old City and is well worth a visit. spectacular views of the harbour and town. There are ancient temples, and artifacts and other remarkable pieces to view.
Most people will be having an after-noon nap, so that they will be able to go to church tonight. But here I am typing away, and ready to go out and enjoy the afternoon sunshine.
KALO PASXA - HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment