Discussion: “Religious Holiday”

(5-8 minutes, easy setup)
Learners will discuss research on the American perception of Easter.
All information provided below was accessed at https://www.barna.com/research/most-americans-consider-easter-a-religious-holiday-but-fewer-correctly-identify-its-meaning/.

State that in 2010, the Barna Group conducted a study in which they attempted to determine how Americans view Easter. Share that while most Americans surveyed recognized that Easter was a religious holiday, many were not certain about what exactly Easter celebrated. Say: Survey participants gave descriptions of Easter that included celebration of the Passover, celebration of the second coming of Jesus, and celebration of the birth of Christ. Emphasize that even among Christians, few considered Easter an important faith holiday. Express that those who were not religious associated Easter with things like spring break, the Easter bunny, and candy.

Discuss the following questions:

Why do you think there is so much confusion over the Easter holiday?
How do we clarify the importance of the resurrection within the church?
How do we share about Jesus’ resurrection with those who are not Christians?
How can we balance the Easter celebration of today (bunnies, eggs, and baskets) with the joyous reverence this day deserves?

After discussion, conclude that learners will study the first accounts of the risen Lord and examine the joy Christ’s resurrection brought then and continues to bring today.