Festa Pashila

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The phrase “Festa Pashila” is Latin for “Easter.” The etymology of Easter is derived from a combination of symbolism including the spring, dawn and new light emanating from the east. The three circles are a traditional Christian symbol for the Trinity. Interwoven, the circles remind us that God is one, even though He reveals Himself to us in three persons. In all of creation, light was the first to be created. Historically, light has come to represent the Word of God. The Psalmist refers to God’s word as a “lamp unto my feet.” Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” In this sense, we see Christ’s resurrection as the light of victory over death, thus spreading forth from the bonds of His earthly tomb. As Christians, we look forward with joy and hope to the day when we are in the presence of our Lord. The author of Revelations states, “there will be nor more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light.”

Eric Palmquist is an ordained Covenant minister and the director of ministry operations for Newport Covenant Church in Bellevue, Washington. He also edits the Expressions column for the Covenant Companion.