Christian Conversations: The Meaning of Easter

The cross and empty tomb represent the central mystery of the Christian faith. What does the resurrection of Jesus mean for us?

Historians cannot prove the resurrection, yet something happened to profoundly change peoples’ lives. In this lecture, Rev. Sandy will reference the mythological pattern of a dying God that pre-dates Christianity and appealed to the Gentiles, as well as generations that followed. He will also speak to the record of fact that a Jesus movement did not die.

The lecture will consider what the Gospels say regarding the physical resurrection, with a focus on Mark, as well as the Emmaus passage from Luke (24:13-35). Sandy will also consider Paul, who only knew the resurrected Christ.

Watch the lecture on YouTube on April 18th, then join us for in an in-person, follow-up discussion the following week.

Date: Tuesday, April 25th, 2023

Time: 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

Location: Strathearn United Church – Upper Room

Topic: The Meaning of Easter

Participants are invited, if they so wish, to bring their own questions and insights to the safe and welcoming environment of this conversation.

Additional points for discussion may include:

· Why did Jesus have to die? Why did He return?

· Why did He not stay?

· Why does the resurrection become so important to the Christian faith?

· Differences in perspective on resurrection (Catholic and Evangelical vs. Mainstream) and impacts on beliefs and actions.