Madagascar: EASTER CELEBRATION – The Christian faith, founded on the resurrection of Jesus

“Through the desert, God guides us to freedom,” is the message of Pope Francis for Lent 2024. The pontiff emphasizes that Lent is a time dedicated to conversion and liberation from all sins. He calls for resisting various temptations to find the path to God. This year, Lent began on Ash Wednesday, 14 February, and will end on Good Friday, 29 March.

“The resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our faith,” says Father Simon Rabemaharavo, S.J., of the Society of Jesus. The term “Lent” comes from the Italian word “quaresima,” which means forty. It is a forty-day period during which believers prepare for Easter, a number with significant meanings in biblical history.

“In reality, there was a Passover before, that of the Jews. Historically, the Israelites were slaves in Egypt for 400 years. God freed them from the Pharaoh’s yoke. For 40 years, the Israelite people crossed the desert to reach the Promised Land. Their journey is a reflection of the Lent that Jesus observed in the desert before his mission. The Jewish Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelite people, and the Christian Easter is Jesus himself who sacrificed himself to save the world and liberate humanity from sin,” notes Father Simon Rabemaharavo, S.J.

Believers strive to fully live Lent and Easter through fasting, helping the poor, and other practices. “Honestly, I did not observe these observances. The situation is difficult in every way. I tried to do good around me and avoid sin. Life is tough, so I will celebrate Easter very modestly,” says Antsa Heriniaina Rakotonirina, a faithful member of the Saint Louis de Gonzague Ecar in Iavoloha.

For Easter 2024, the theme is “Jesus is risen from the dead.” Despite life’s challenges, practitioners always find a way to celebrate Easter and observe certain traditions. “This year, I couldn’t focus on Lent because of various events. I did not fast, but I prayed constantly. With my partner, we plan to go to church during Holy Week to better prepare for Easter. Spiritually, that’s what matters most to me, as Easter is a victory on all levels. I firmly believe that we will win all these victories because Jesus has conquered the death and evil of the world,” emphasizes Vonjinirina Herinantenaina Elie, a practicing member of faith at the Saint Louis de Gonzague Ecar in Iavoloha. Easter is a celebration of faith because the Jesus that Christians follow is a living Jesus.

The Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday. However, the most significant moment is the celebration of the Holy Triduum.

Holy Thursday: It celebrates and commemorates the institution of the Eucharist. Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, an act symbolizing divine love for humanity. On Holy Thursday, a reenactment is organized where the priest represents Jesus and twelve men, chosen for their good conduct, portray the apostles.

Good Friday: Jesus sacrificed his life for humanity. “Giving one’s life for those we love is the greatest proof of love.” Believers gather in the church to vigil with Jesus.

Holy Saturday: Jesus is resurrected, affirming the foundation of the Christian faith.

Easter Sunday: It is the solemn celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus.

Mialisoa Ida