Easter is a holiday that holds different meanings for different people. For some, it’s a time of religious reflection and celebration, while for others, it’s a time for family gatherings and indulging in delicious treats. However, for Ray Lenarcic, a SUNY Fredonia graduate and Herkimer resident, Easter holds a special significance that goes beyond the traditional festivities.
In a heartfelt reflection on Easter, Lenarcic reminisces about his childhood experiences attending Sunday morning service at the First Baptist church. The booming voice of Rev. Fred Thorne, the Easter baskets filled with colorful eggs and chocolate bunnies, and the delicious Easter dinner spread all evoke fond memories of a simpler time.
But Easter also serves as a reminder of a significant historical event – the Easter Uprising in Dublin, Ireland in 1916. Lenarcic recalls learning about this rebellion through songs and poetry, particularly the work of Nobel Prize-winning poet William Butler Yeats. The uprising, led by a group of patriots seeking to end British rule over Ireland, ultimately led to the emergence of the Irish Free State.
Lenarcic reflects on the duality of Irish history, marked by both “terrible shadows” of oppression and suffering, as well as “beautiful sunshine” of resilience and cultural richness. He pays tribute to the martyrs of the Easter Uprising, including warrior-poet Padraic Pearse and labor leader James Connolly, who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Irish independence.
Ultimately, Lenarcic credits his Sunday School teacher, Mary Thorne, the pastor’s wife, for instilling in him the values of kindness and generosity that have shaped his life as a community activist and educator. As he wishes readers a Happy Easter, he leaves them with a powerful message to “live your faith” and make the world a better place.
In a world filled with commercialized celebrations, Lenarcic’s reflection on the true meaning of Easter serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faith, history, and the enduring legacy of those who have fought for freedom and justice.