Well, folks, gather ’round and let me spin you a yarn about how our Amish friends celebrate Easter. It’s a tale as old as the hills, but as fresh as the morning dew on a spring day. Now, you might be thinkin’ of chocolate bunnies and plastic eggs when Easter comes to mind, but for the Amish, it’s a whole different kettle of fish.
Picture this: It’s Good Friday, and while the rest of the world might be rushin’ about, the Amish are startin’ their day just like any other – tendin’ to their chores. You see, cows don’t take holidays, and neither do chickens. But once the animals are fed and the barn’s all squared away, that’s when the real observance begins1.
The family gathers in the living room, quiet as church mice. There’s no hustle and bustle here, no siree. It’s a time for reflection, as solemn as a funeral. They crack open their Bibles and their little black prayer books, and even dig out the German “Rules of a Godly Life” book. Now, I don’t know about you, but that sounds like some heavy readin’ to me1.
They spend the day prayin’ and fastin’, their voices barely above a whisper. It’s like they’re tryin’ not to disturb the very air around them. They’re ponderin’ on the sacrifice of Jesus, and let me tell you, it’s enough to make a grown man weep1.
But don’t you worry, ’cause the mood lightens up come Easter Sunday. The Amish might not be throwin’ any wild parties, but they sure do know how to put on a spread. Ham, eggs, fresh-baked bread, and desserts that’d make your grandma jealous – it’s all there on the table13.
Now, here’s where things get interestin’. Some Amish folks might exchange a small gift or two, maybe a card. Some might even let the little ones color some eggs or have a hunt. But don’t go lookin’ for any Easter bunnies hoppin’ around – that’s not part of the Amish way17.
Easter Monday is another day of celebration for some Amish communities. It’s a time for visitin’ friends and family, sharin’ meals, and countin’ their blessings. It’s like a bonus day of fellowship before they head back to their regular routines on Tuesday5.
But here’s the kicker – not all Amish celebrate Easter the same way. Some might treat it just like any other Sunday, while others might have special services or traditions. It’s as varied as the patches on a quilt7.
One thing’s for sure, though. Whether they’re havin’ a big to-do or keepin’ it simple, the Amish always keep their focus on the religious meanin’ of Easter. It’s all about Jesus risin’ from the dead, and the hope that brings17.
Now, I know what you’re thinkin’. “What about the food?” Well, let me tell you, the Amish know how to cook up a storm. They might whip up a “Farmers Casserole” for brunch, or maybe some “Bacon Four-Bean Baked Beans” that’d make your mouth water. And don’t even get me started on their ham recipes – they’ve got more ways to cook a ham than you can shake a stick at248.
But it ain’t all about the eatin’. The Amish take this time to really appreciate their faith and their heritage. From the quiet reflection of Good Friday to the joyful gatherings on Easter Sunday and Monday, every moment is filled with gratitude and reverence1.
So next time Easter rolls around, maybe we could all take a page out of the Amish book. Slow down a bit, spend some time with family, and remember what the holiday’s really about. It might just do us all a world of good.
Citations:
- https://amishrules.com/do-the-amish-celebrate-easter/
- https://thesouthernladycooks.com/easter-dinner-recipes/
- https://simplycheese.net/A-Glimpse-into-Amish-Easter-Traditions-A-Blend-of-Faith-and-Family_b_41.html
- https://www.amish365.com/six-favorite-amish-easter-recipes/
- https://www.marketsatshrewsbury.com/entertaining-and-holidays/amish-holidays/
- https://amishamerica.com/9-delicious-amish-easter-dinner-dishes/
- https://amish-heritage.org/do-the-amish-celebrate-easter/
- https://www.amish365.com/amish-easter-brunch-farmers-casserole/