Easter celebrated with religious fervour in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thousands of faithful thronged churches for holy prayers as Christians across Kerala today celebrated Easter to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ after crucifixion.

The resurrection of Christ was announced at the stroke of midnight at churches and special prayers and services were held to mark the occasion.

Cutting across denominations, senior prelates and priests led the Easter masses and gave out the message of hope and spiritual revival to the devotees, who congregated in churches in the wee hours.

Easter also marked the end of the Holy Week of prayers and penitence recalling the final phase of Christ's life from his arrest and crucifixion, followed by resurrection.

The Syro Malabar Church Archbishop Cardinal Mar George Alencherry led the special Easter prayers and services at the St Mary's Basilica, the headquarters of Syro Malabar Catholic Church, in Kochi.

In his Easter message, the Cardinal urged people to fight against the evils in the society including corruption, violence and environment pollution.

Archbishop M Soosai Packiam presided over the mass at St Joseph's cathedral of Latin Catholic rite here.

Sumptuous traditional feasts were served in most Christian homes, marking the end of the 40-day season of Lent when believers shun luxuries and worldly pleasures.

Governor Justice (Rtd) P Sathasivam, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and leaders of various political parties greeted Keralites on the occasion.