Two very different takes on Easter

by Jordan Redman
Staff Writer

The oldest festival of the Christian church, Easter, falls on Sunday, April 1. For Christians, Easter is known as the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Like most things, there are various approaches to celebrating Easter. 

Richard Sturt, Chapter Head of The Satanic Temple, said all Easter means to him is “there’ll be half priced Reese’s eggs the next day, and Christians managed to yet again steal and appropriate traditions from other cultures.”

Conversely, Neill Coffman, senior pastor at Expressions Church, said “Easter represents the foundation of my faith. Because of the resurrection, I know that I belong as a child of God just as I am, free of shame. 

“Truly understanding Easter and the love Jesus has for me has enabled me to get a glimpse of unconditional forgiveness and unconditional love.” 

Coffman continued, “For Expressions congregation, Easter is a time of connection with our Lord and Savior. It enables us to celebrate the life that was given to us unconditionally. We know that no matter where we come from, who we are or our orientation, we have been brought into the family of God through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”

However, Easter can be a difficult time for LGBT+ Christians that do not feel accepted by the church and for nonreligious youth forced to celebrate with their family. 

Sturt said, “A portion of Atheists have childhood trauma that stems from church when they were younger, whether that be from being told they would go to hell if they didn’t love some invisible being a certain way, or from something more reprehensible. 

“It’s heartbreaking that someone with such experience would be forced to potentially relive that trauma to appease their family’s or community’s desires. Most atheists are capable of laughing at concepts such as a zombie Jesus, blind faith and will simply persevere through a church service or family prayers while trying to maintain a straight face.”

Coffman offered some advice to LGBT+ Christians, “It is important when our families don’t support us to have a support system of our chosen family to help you through the rough times and to celebrate the good times, including holidays. 

“As for churches, if the person does not have the option of attending an affirming church, I recommend they take advantage of the many affirming churches streaming services online.”

Sturt added, “Any community/congregation that ostracizes LGBT+ members should be ashamed. Not only do I find them to be disgusting, but they may want to reread the teachings of their messiah.”

Coffman concluded, “Churches are not perfect, so it’s important to find one that helps you to connect to Jesus. Visit churches until you find one that allows you to do this. Don’t worry about what other people think; they are just distractions. 

“I believe God loves His LGBT+ children and His primary focus is for us to know He does not judge us. Don’t let anyone judge you or steal this precious season from you.”

Sturt called for civility, “Regardless of what arbitrary holiday people may celebrate, treat each other with kindness and respect regardless of their religion.”

Regardless of what you are celebrating on Sunday, April 1, whether it’s half-priced Reese’s eggs or the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it is important to respect everyone, regardless of their faith or beliefs.

The Gayly. April 1, 2018. 11:03 a.m. CST.