Sunday, April 4, 2010

Happy Easter 2010


Happy Easter


Today marks the most solemn day in the Christian calendar.  Unlike Christmas, Easter is a movable feast occurring the first Sunday after the full moon following the vernal equinox.   It can therefore occur between March 22 and April 25.  Christians gathered in churches today, across the world, and rejoiced because He is Risen from the Dead.  This Good News has been handed down from generation to generation and is based on the scriptures recorded more than 2000 years ago.

We have had the good fortune of traveling to many parts of Europe.   While on these cruise vacations, we often visit the magnificent cathedrals and churches built hundreds of years ago.   The stained glass window above can be seen in the Cathedral in Antwerp, Belgium.

The sculptures, wood carvings, and stained glass windows bring the scriptures to life.  What is most amazing is the level of detail exhibited in these works of art which can be found not only in the cathedrals, but often on other buildings such as the one pictured here.

During our travels, we have learned about how the cathedrals and their contents have withstood the test of time.  In some cases, bombs fell all around, but left only minor damage to the cathedral.   In other cases, damage was more extensive but the communities rose from the ashes and restored them to their previous condition.  Visiting these churches has enhanced our cruising experiences and we hope that you'll also have the opportunity to visit some historic churches on one of your future cruise vacations.

The top photo was taken onboard AMA Waterways Amalegro last Easter Sunday.  Modern age has added the Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs to this holiday celebration.  Whether you celebrated this as a religious holiday or secular one, we hope that this Easter Sunday was a joyous day for you.  



 


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