US

Easter around the world

Easter around the world.

by Luis Magana, Partner Engagement Director

Easter is here, and for us it's a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the holiday is celebrated in many different ways across different cultures and countries, what matters most is the reason behind the celebration.


In the US, many families (including mine) attend special church services and have brunch or supper with their loved ones, while others prefer to combine traditions like Easter egg hunts and the Easter Bunny. In Latin America, Easter is known as Semana Santa, a week-long celebration with elaborate procession and parades. Often in Hispanic cultures,  schools and many offices close for the week for people to celebrate by spending time with family and friends. In Ethiopia, Fasika is celebrated with a 55-day fasting period followed by a massive feast.

Greece has a unique way of celebrating Easter with a week of religious observances leading up to the main event. On Holy Thursday, women dye eggs red to symbolize the blood of Christ, and on Holy Saturday, they prepare the traditional lamb meal for Easter Sunday. In Spain, Easter is marked by elaborate processions of statues and figures representing the passion of Christ.

The Philippines observes Holy Week with processions and reenactments of the crucifixion. in Sweden, Easter is celebrated with the lighting of bonfires on Holy Saturday, and in Norway, families gather for a traditional Easter lunch featuring eggs, cured meats, and cheese.

Regardless of how Easter is celebrated around the world, the reason is still the same: to celebrate the resurrection and the hope we find in the Gospel. It's a time to be grateful for the gift of eternal life that was given to us through Jesus. But also, Easter is an opportunity to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and create fun memories.

No matter where you are from or what is your tradition, let’s remember Easter is a celebration of the biggest act of love. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we have access directly to God and can receive forgiveness of our sins. Let's take this opportunity to reflect on our faith, express gratitude for all our blessings, and share His love with those around us.

"For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his" (Romans 6:5)

Let's be united in faith as we celebrate Easter around the world. Happy Easter from Mission Adelante.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our volunteer Orientation. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.

CULTURAL SURPRISES I EXPERIENCED WHEN I MOVED TO THE US

TOp 5 cultural surprises I experienced when I moved from El Salvador to the US

by Luis Magana, Partner Engagement Director

Moving to another country can come with cultural surprises. Even when you think you know a lot about the new culture, there may be unexpected social norms, traditions, or behaviors that can catch you off guard.

For me these were the top 5 cultural surprises that I experienced when I moved here:

  1. Events usually start at the time listed on the invitation.

In El Salvador, events often start later than advertised, and it's considered normal to arrive fashionably late. However, in the US, events typically start at the exact time listed on the invitation, and being punctual is generally expected.

2. Asking who has the best BBQ is opening a can of worms.

As a food lover, I was excited to explore the BBQ scene in Kansas City. I quickly discovered that BBQ was taken very seriously, with different restaurants and enthusiasts claiming to be the best. Asking who has the best BBQ can spark a fun and heated debate between people.

3. Midwest weather is unpredictable.

In El Salvador, the weather is relatively predictable, with a consistent temperature throughout the year. However, in the Midwest, the weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly. One day it could be sunny and warm, and the next day, there could be a snowstorm. I had to learn to check the weather forecast before heading out, especially during the winter months.

4. Pajamas are acceptable while you shop.

One of the things that surprised me the most was seeing people wearing pajamas or other casual attire when shopping or running errands, even in major stores like Walmart. In El Salvador, people tend to dress more formally in public, so it was quite a culture shock to see people in their pajamas at the grocery store.

5. Intentionality counts more to establish a relationship with people.

In El Salvador, relationships are often more spontaneous and informal. However, in the US, people tend to value intentional efforts to build relationships, such as making plans to spend time together or sending thoughtful messages or gifts. I learned that it's essential to put effort into building relationships, and making plans in advance can be an excellent way to do so.

Moving to a new city is always challenging, but it's also a valuable experience that can broaden our perspectives and help us appreciate the world's diversity.

Every culture has its unique elements of beauty and brokenness. Working at Mission Adelante has allowed me to see firsthand the beauty in the diverse cultures represented in Kansas City, Kansas. I am learning to approach each new culture eager and excited to learn from their beauty.

Be part of our programs!

We are so excited to start this year and we are grateful for all our volunteers who make everything possible. Would you consider partnering with us this trimester?

How can you help?

  • Pray for our program participants would create an impact in our community and grow with their walk with the Lord.

  • Volunteer – Come to our volunteer Orientation. For more information visit: https://www.missionadelante.org/orientation

  • Donate to join us in building a multicultural community of disciples making disciples.