On Monday, April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church observes Easter Monday, also known as the "Day of the Angel," as part of the ongoing celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This day marks the second day of the Octave of Easter, an eight-day celebration that commemorates Christ’s victory over death, beginning on Easter Sunday and concluding the following Sunday, according to the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.
The Gospel reading for Easter Monday is taken from the book of Matthew. This passage recounts the moment when Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of James, encounter the risen Lord. The scripture states, "Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.’”
Easter Monday is also referred to as the "Day of the Angel," a term noted by the Italian publication, Daily Compass. In a message delivered on April 1, 1991, during the Regina Coeli, Pope John Paul II emphasized the significance of this day, stating that delivering the good news of the Lord’s resurrection required a "superior being." He remarked, "For the first uttering of the words ‘He is risen,’ the Resurrection, a human subject was not enough; human words were not adequate. It took a superior being, because for the human being this truth and the words that communicate the truth, ‘He is risen,’ this truth itself is so shocking, so incredible, that perhaps no man would have dared pronounce it."
As Christians around the world celebrate this significant occasion, it’s essential to reflect on the deeper meaning of Easter, which transcends the secular symbols often associated with the holiday. While many enjoy the festive aspects of Easter, such as chocolate bunnies and egg hunts, these elements pale in comparison to the spiritual renewal and recommitment to faith that the holiday represents.
April 20, 2025, is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with Passover, a Jewish festival that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, rooted in the story found in the Book of Exodus. This intersection of holy days highlights the themes of freedom and faith that resonate within both traditions.
In the weeks leading up to Easter, various traditions and practices emerge, reminding believers of the significance of this season. Many Christian denominations greet each other with the phrase, "Christ is risen!" followed by responses such as, "Truly He is risen!" or variations like "He is risen indeed!" This exchange lasts for 40 days, extending from Easter Sunday to the Feast of Ascension.
However, the Easter message is not solely a matter of tradition; it also calls for introspection and action. Believers are encouraged to embody the principles of their faith throughout the year, emphasizing forgiveness, humility, and charity in their daily lives. Easter serves as a reminder to practice these tenets consistently, not just during the holy season.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable resurgence of interest in Christianity among younger generations, particularly in the United Kingdom. According to a report from the Bible Society titled "Quiet Revival," the percentage of 18-24 year-olds attending church regularly has increased from a mere 4 percent in 2018 to 16 percent today. This trend reflects a growing curiosity and exploration of the Christian faith among Generation Z, a demographic that has largely been characterized by its secular upbringing.
Similarly, in France, the Catholic Church is set to baptize over 10,000 adults this Easter, marking a 45 percent increase from the previous year. This surge represents the largest number of adult baptisms since records began in 2002. Notably, 42 percent of those being baptized fall within the 18-25 age group, while there has been a 33 percent increase in teens under 18 seeking baptism.
These developments demonstrate that despite the decline in church attendance and the influence of secular ideologies, the essence of Christianity remains resilient. The message of Easter, centered on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, continues to resonate with individuals seeking meaning and hope in an increasingly complex world.
Moreover, the global Christian community faces challenges that underscore the power of faith in the face of adversity. According to Open Doors, an organization supporting persecuted Christians, one in seven Christians worldwide experiences persecution. In 2023, nearly 5,000 Christians were killed for faith-related reasons, with the majority of these incidents occurring in Nigeria. The resilience of Christians in regions facing terror and persecution serves as a powerful testimony to the enduring strength of their faith.
In Pakistan, for instance, Christians have demonstrated remarkable courage in the wake of violent attacks on their communities. Bishop Azad Marshall, Moderator of the Church of Pakistan, spoke about his visit to affected areas, stating, "With tears, we sang, prayed, and read scriptures seeking understanding and experiencing the presence of Jesus among us." This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of Easter, as believers draw strength from their faith even in the most challenging circumstances.
As the celebrations of Easter continue, it is crucial for the church to heed the lessons from both the rising interest in Christianity among younger generations and the unwavering faith of persecuted Christians. The challenge lies in moving beyond superficial trends and instead focusing on the core message of the Gospel, which is not bound by cultural fads or ideological battles.
In this light, the Easter proclamation remains as relevant today as it has ever been: "Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen." This powerful declaration serves as a reminder of the transformative nature of faith and the hope that it brings to believers around the world.
