Greek Orthodox Easter 2026: Countdown to the Resurrection Begins
The Greek Orthodox Church will mark Pascha on April 12, 2026. The festive observance begins with the arrival of Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera) on February 23, initiating a period of reflection and preparation.
Countdown to Greek Orthodox Easter 2026
This year’s journey to Easter involves significant dates, events, and spiritual practices.
Lenten Calendar Overview
- February 23: Clean Monday – Launch of Great Lent.
- February 23 – April 4: Sarakosti – A 40-day fasting period, noted for internal reflection.
- March 6: First Salutation Service.
- April 4: Lazarus Saturday – Commemorates Lazarus’ resurrection.
- April 5: Palm Sunday – Celebrates Christ’s entry into Jerusalem.
- April 5 – April 11: Holy Week – A week of deep spiritual significance.
- April 9: Holy Thursday – Service of the Twelve Gospels.
- April 10: Holy Friday – Observes mourning for Christ.
- April 11: Holy Saturday – The First Resurrection service leads to midnight celebrations.
- April 12: Pascha (Easter Sunday) – Celebrations commence with traditional family gatherings and feasts.
Details of the Lent and Holy Week
Clean Monday is not only a start to fasting but a day filled with culture. Families traditionally fly kites and enjoy lagana, an unleavened bread, along with seafood.
Sarakosti, translating to “The Forty Days,” actually lasts 48 days when including Holy Week. This period focuses on prayer and spiritual renewal, where adherents refrain from meat, dairy, and fish, except on Palm Sunday.
The first five weeks feature the Service of the Salutations, with specific Fridays dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Observances Leading to Pascha
The Holy Week culminates in fervent observance, emphasizing parables and the healing of soul and body. Key days include:
- Holy Monday & Tuesday: Teachings on spiritual wakefulness.
- Holy Wednesday: Holy Unction Service for anointing.
- Holy Thursday: Reflective services feature the “Crucified One.”
- Holy Friday: Mourning as the Epitaphios is processed.
On Holy Saturday, the midnight service emphasizes renewal with the passing of the “Holy Light.” The joyful proclamation “Christos Anesti” signals the true resurrection celebration beginning on Easter Sunday.
Celebrating Easter Sunday
April 12 marks a festive conclusion to the Lenten journey. Families gather to roast lamb, crack red-dyed eggs, and celebrate the resurrection, highlighting the triumph of life over death.
The countdown to Greek Orthodox Easter 2026 is not just a reminder of dates but an invitation to spiritual growth and community connection during this sacred time.
