Good Friday, the day that Jesus was crucified, is a day of somber reflection for those of the Christian faith. The Amish too reserve the Holy Week, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter in all that it represents.

Various Amish and Mennonite communities may consider these days differently, but Old Order Communities in which I am most familiar with, do not work on Good Friday, nor do they attend school. In fact, it is reserved much like an off-Sunday. There is fasting and reading all through the morning. On Easter, families who are not attending church in their own district, will attend in the neighboring one, as Amish church services are bi-weekly. Other than Christmas, this is the only mandated non-Sunday service.

There is no Easter bunny, but some communities do allow children to dye eggs and have egg hunts at school, as well as color Easter images to hang. I have found that jelly beans, as well as little Easter marshmallow chicks are a favorite among many Amish families. I was recently gifted this jar of jelly from my friend Liz and her family. They always take the extra time to think of me, which makes me feel a little special.

Though my children did grow up hunting eggs and cuddling rabbits, I never shied from sharing the importance of the season. Now that I am a grandmother, I continue many of the traditions with my grandchildren. We will reserve time to reflect on the great sacrifice Jesus endured for us tomorrow, and over the weekend prepare meals for the family, eggs for the children, and ready chocolate crosses as gifts.

I was given this scripture by a dear Amish friend. It’s one you may already be familiar with, as it is often used beginning many a Sunday sermon. May you take time to reflect the true gift you have been given and share your love for Christ and dedication to your faith with others.

Have a blessed Easter,

Mindy

He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: “The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.” – Luke 24:6-7