In the 1957 Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!,” the green anthropomorphic creature tries to steal a sacred holiday from the Whos living in Whoville. Taking their gifts and trees and decorations — even the roast beast! — the Grinch attempts to prevent Christmas from arriving.
The result? The Whos gather anyway to sing carols and remember the blessings they share rather than lamenting what they have lost. The Grinch’s heart grows three sizes because of the Whos’ unshakable faith, and he returns what he has stolen.
All of which seems relevant today as Christians celebrate Easter 2020 — a holiday unlike any we have previously experienced.
Arriving in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic that for weeks has shuttered businesses and gathering spots — including churches — this year’s Easter is unprecedented. Families accustomed to a religious service followed by a celebratory meal are stuck at home to honor the occasion with only household members — or with virtual gatherings. Those for whom church attendance is a social outing are unable to partake in the typical camaraderie and communal experience.
Throughout Clark County — and throughout the world, for that matter — many churches are streaming their services on the internet. But there is a dichotomy that by being isolated we are sharing the same experience. Such are these unusual times.
As Esau McCaulley, a professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Illinois, wrote in an opinion piece for The New York Times: “The church’s absence, its literal emptying, can function as a symbol of its trust in God’s ability to meet us regardless of the location. The church remains the church whether gathered or scattered. It might also indirectly remind us of the gift of gathering that we too often take for granted.”
While COVID-19 has attempted to steal Easter, for believers throughout the world the meaning of the holiday remains unaltered. It still is a celebration of hope driven by the belief that Jesus rose from the dead and provided the promise of everlasting life. It is the oldest and most meaningful holiday for Christians, dating in the Catholic Church to the year 326. It will take place again today — whether or not people are able to gather.
According to Pew Research Center, 61 percent of adults in the state of Washington self-identify as Christian. While we wish them an enjoyable and meaningful Easter celebration, we hope that all Clark County residents — regardless of their personal beliefs — can embrace the message of peace and hope that arrives during difficult times.
For Jewish people, that message is represented by the eight-day Passover celebration, which continues through Thursday. The celebration commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery and is believed to have evolved from a festival that predates the Exodus.
While the celebrations over the past week have been unusual, their meaning remains inviolate. Writes religion reporter Elizabeth Dias of The New York Times, “Religious ritual holds power not only because it connects people gathered in one space — it also connects people across time.”
That, perhaps, is the most meaningful aspect of this year’s Easter celebration. It is a continuation of traditions that have lasted for millennia, through pandemic and pestilence and plague. And it shall take place again today.
The coronavirus has tried to steal Easter. Believers will ensure that it endures.
