Lazarus Saturday facts for kids
Lazarus Saturday is a special day in the Orthodox Church. It happens right before Palm Sunday. On this day, Christians remember a famous miracle. This is when Jesus brought his friend Lazarus back to life. This amazing event is told in the Bible, in the Book of John, chapter 11. Lazarus Saturday also marks the beginning of Holy Week. Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter.
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What is Lazarus Saturday?
Lazarus Saturday is a very important day for Orthodox Christians. It is always celebrated on the Saturday before Palm Sunday. This day is a joyful one. It reminds people of Jesus' power over death. It also shows His love for His friends.
The Story of Lazarus
The Bible tells us about Lazarus, who lived in Bethany. He was a good friend of Jesus and His disciples. Lazarus had two sisters, Mary and Martha. One day, Lazarus became very sick. His sisters sent a message to Jesus, asking for His help.
Jesus did not come right away. By the time He arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had already died. He had been in the tomb for four days. Mary and Martha were very sad. They told Jesus that if He had been there, Lazarus would not have died.
Jesus went to the tomb, which was a cave with a stone covering the entrance. He asked for the stone to be moved. Then, Jesus called out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" And to everyone's surprise, Lazarus walked out of the tomb, still wrapped in his burial cloths. This miracle showed that Jesus has power over life and death.
How is Lazarus Saturday Celebrated?
Lazarus Saturday is a day of great joy and hope. Churches hold special services to remember this miracle. People often sing hymns that talk about Jesus raising Lazarus. The services remind everyone that Jesus is the "Resurrection and the Life."
In some places, like Bulgaria, there are special traditions. Young girls might go from house to house singing songs. They celebrate the coming of spring and the miracle of Lazarus. In Greece, people bake special sweet breads called "lazarakia." These breads are shaped like a person wrapped in cloths, reminding everyone of Lazarus.
This day is a bridge between the fasting of Lent and the solemn events of Holy Week. It prepares people for the celebration of Easter. It shows that even death can be overcome through faith in Jesus.
Images for kids
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The Raising of Lazarus — Oil on canvas of Luca Giordano. 1675 c. Naples, from private collection. Italy
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Lazarus Saturday in Gara Bov (Bulgaria)
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A lazarakia, a special bread baked for Lazarus Saturday
