What is Eastertide?

The time after Easter until Pentecost is a time for the church to live into its Easter identity. This is a time for Christians to remember who they are as participants in Christ's death and resurrection and to know that they are indeed Easter people. During Eastertide, worship leaders may focus on the impact of Easter by looking at Paul's epistles or examining the confessions that summarize the meaning of Christ's death and resurrection.

Joyful music continues to celebrate the fulfillment of God's promises in Christ's death and resurrection. The season also anticipates Christ's ascension and the sending of the Spirit on Pentecost. 

How do I plan Eastertide sermons and worship?

When planning sermons and worship for the Sundays of Eastertide, we can tell the story of the resurrection and think about what it means for daily joyful living.

When is Eastertide?

Eastertide comprises the fifty days after Easter Sunday.

What colors may be used for Eastertide?

As a way to continue the Easter celebration, Eastertide maintains Easter's white and gold—colors that contrast with the purple and sometimes black of Lent, the season leading up to Easter.

What themes may be used for Eastertide?

• resurrection
• new life
• creation, new creation

For more ideas, see Easter Sunday and Easter Vigil 

Bible passage ideas for Eastertide

The season of Easter, or Eastertide, provides an opportunity to spend time in stories from scripture from the time in Jesus' life between his resurrection and ascension, which is celebrated fifty days after Easter. This is also a time to spend time in the many scripture passages also recommended for Easter Sunday or Easter Vigil.

• Matthew 28:11–15, the guards' report
• Luke 24:13–35, Jesus appears on the road to Emmaus
• Luke 24:36–49, Jesus appears to his disciples
• John 20:19–23, Jesus appears to his disciples
• John 20:24–29, Jesus appears to Thomas
• John 21:1–14, Jesus and the miraculous catch of fish
• John 21:15–25, Jesus reinstates Peter