Easter

Debbi, Alison and all those who will be in Corfu for Easter. (Paska)

I beleive that Nathan has posted the details of Greek easter with regards to the general celebrations in Corfu Town.

However, outside the town, all the small towns, villages and communities celebrate in much the same way. No parades as such.

There are services in all the churches, culminating with the midnight service to celebrate the rising of Christ, So just before midnight, all the congregation follows the priest and  the Icons decorated with flowers from all the gardens and hillsides, in procession round and round the church, then at midnight the true flame is passed from candle to candle(you buy them in advance from the local supermarkets, all decorated and with a little plastic wind shield)untill all the candles around the church are lit, to the accompany of greetings, "Christ is Risen", (Christos Annesti) And the responce "He is Truly Risen" (Alithos Annesti).

Everyone then makes their way home, or if invited, to someone elses home, to break the Lenten fast with soup and little nibles, depending on how seriously you/they have observed the fast. One of the special occurances at this time is to some how get your candles all the way home without them going out, and with the flame form a smoky cross on the underside of the front door lintel. This act will obviously bring good luck, ward off the evil eye, prove to the neighbours how devout you are. I once followed a car up our hill with about 10 candles in a bunch held next to the rear window, almost as blinding as someones full beam headlights.

Next day,Sunday is another matter, all manner of BBQs are brought into play, from a sheet of corrugated iron on the ground to the most impressive preformed models, to slowly cook the sacrificial lamb, or kid. Always outdoors. It is'nt that long ago that it was traditional to buy the lamb in advance, and slit the poor beasts throat at the front of the house, making the sign of the cross on the front door, thankfully this practice is seldom performed today,

The good thing about this Easter being so late is that quite a number of tourists will have arrived in time for Easter, so most of the tavernas will be open for business, and I have no doubt that they will be planning to provide a typical family type lunch for their customers.

Bob.