Thiruvananthapuram, Sunday 24 April 2011: Christians in Kerala today joined their brethren the world over to celebrate Easter with piety and gaiety commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ after crucifixion.

Senior bishops gave out the Easter message of promise and hope during the special church services and prayers in cathedrals and major churches across the state. Archbishop Maria Soosaipackyam led the Easter service in the St Joseph’s Cathedral here.

Coming after the Holy Week which recalls the final days of Christ leading to his arrest and crucifixion, Easter also marks the end of the season of Lent when devouts abstain from all worldly pleasures.

Kerala Governor R S Gavai, Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan and leaders of various political parties extended Easter greeting to Keralites living around the world.