Why the Orthodox Church Celebrates Easter on a Different Date

Discover why the Orthodox Church has a distinct date for Easter, influenced by the Julian calendar and Biblical traditions.

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The Orthodox Church has a different date for Easter because it follows the Julian calendar for determining liturgical dates, unlike the Western churches which use the Gregorian calendar. Easter in the Orthodox Church is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, but always after Jewish Passover, aligning more closely with the Biblical narrative of Jesus's resurrection.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why does the Orthodox Church follow the Julian calendar? The Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar for liturgical dates, which differs from the Gregorian calendar used by most Western churches.
  2. How is the date of Easter calculated in the Orthodox Church? Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon post-vernal equinox, and always after Jewish Passover.
  3. What is the significance of Passover in determining Orthodox Easter? Orthodox Easter must always be celebrated after Passover, aligning with the biblical narrative of Jesus' resurrection.

Watch More

For more insights into the traditions of Orthodox Christianity and how they compare with Western practices, check out our related videos on Easter origins and the significance of the Julian calendar.

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