Living Eastertide: Three Ways for Catholics to Celebrate the 50 Days of Easter

Alleluia, He is risen!

If this statement seems a little behind the times, think again. After a long 40 days of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in the Lenten season, the Church gives us 50 days to celebrate Easter with intention! 

In Catholic circles, we put a great deal of emphasis on our Lenten preparations. And rightly so, as it is the most solemn, sacred season in our liturgical calendar. Every Catholic email, print piece and podcast offers guidance, inspiration and reflection for those 40 days. 

Just as Lent is a season set apart from the rest of the year, we are encouraged to do the same during these Easter days. If you aren’t sure just what this might look like, here are several ideas for how to celebrate the 50 days of Easter.

Ponder the Glory of the Resurrection

Sin and death have been conquered! The victory is won! Maybe we’ve heard these phrases so often throughout our lives that we say them without dwelling on their richness. This Easter season, take time to truly ponder the meaning of the resurrection– how it changed history and how it changed our own lives today. To thank God for this gift, consider spending a little more time in adoration or making time for daily Mass.

Continue Your Feasting

Throughout scripture and tradition, heaven is often referred to as a banquet. During Eastertide, as we reflect on Jesus ascending into heaven, we can point toward the heavenly banquet with our own table spread. This is a great time to crack out a nice bottle of wine, try a new recipe, and relish the bounty – all for the glory of God!

It’s not uncommon around Christmas for people to host parties all throughout the season. Take a cue from that festive time and consider hosting a gathering during the 50 days of Easter. It doesn’t have to be expressly Easter themed, but use this time to get together and praise God through good food, music, and fellowship.

Pray for New Catholics

There is a certain thrill of hope that echoes throughout the Universal Church as new Catholics are welcomed at the Easter vigil. These men and women bring unique beauty and gifts to our Church family, and their zeal can be deeply edifying for the rest of us. As we all know, the life of faith, though rich in joy, is also marked with plenty of trials. During these Easter days, keep the neophytes (new Catholics) close in prayer.

We could ponder the miracle of Easter every day for the rest of our lives and never plumb the depths of this glorious mystery. Though we will never exhaust it, this season is an excellent time to consider it personally.

May you experience the joy and hope of this season today and for many days ahead!