65 Meaningful Holy Week and Easter Activities for Families
Updated: Feb 24
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We all know the importance of Christmas. We make huge celebrations, create core-memory-making traditions, gather as families, prioritize the things that really matter in life, and even have one-hour church on Sundays! Recently, the leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognized the imbalance between the way we've focused on Christmas and the short acknowledgement we've given to Easter. We know the importance of Easter. We understand it's significance. And yet, we struggle with knowing how we can make it special. This article will help you do just that -- make Easter and Holy week a special time for your family.
What is Holy Week?
Holy Week is compiled of the days leading up to the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It's the week between Palm Sunday and Easter. "In the Greek and Roman liturgical books, it is called the Great Week because great deeds were done by God during this week." (Britannica)
And great it was.
There's a lot of gray area as to what took place each day, but we'll be going of the Church of Jesus Christ Christ of Latter-Day Saint's most recently released timeline found in their "Come Unto Christ Holy Week" snippets.
Sunday: Palm Sunday
1 And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,
2 Saying unto them, Go into the village aover against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.
3 And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them.
4 All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,
5 Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy aKing cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.
6 And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them,
7 And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon.
8 And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way.
9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.
10 And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?
11 And the amultitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.
Here are a few activities you could do to make this day more meaningful:
Prepare the Way for the Lord
Spend time with your kids preparing the way for the Lord by laying down blankets or Jackets down an imaginary path. Share with your children the story of how His followers prepared the way for Jesus and the testimonies and praises they shared.
Create Palm Branch Crafts:
Make palm branches from construction paper or real palm fronds. You can find simple palm branch craft ideas online. This can be a fun and creative way for children to engage with the story.
Bake Palm Sunday-themed Treats:
Spend time baking treats with a Palm Sunday theme. You could make palm leaf-shaped cookies or cupcakes. Use green icing or colored sugar to represent palm leaves.
Act Out the Palm Sunday Story:
Encourage family members to act out the events of Palm Sunday. Assign roles, use props, and make it an interactive and educational activity.
Plant Seeds or Seedlings:
Symbolize new beginnings by planting seeds or seedlings in your garden. Discuss the growth and renewal associated with spring and connect it to the spiritual themes of Palm Sunday.
Share a Meal Together:
Prepare a special meal or snack together and share it as a family. Use the time to talk about the significance of Palm Sunday and what it means to each family member.
Create Holy Week Stickers together:
If you have an inkjet printer and sticker paper, you and your family can create stickers together! Click here to get started: https://www.otherthanamom.com/post/how-to-make-easter-stickers-free-easter-clip-art-download-inside
Monday: The Cleansing of the Temple
12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.
15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,
16 And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?
17 ¶ And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.
Here are a few activities you could do to make this day more meaningful:
Dramatic Play - Cleansing the Temple:
Act out the scene where Jesus cleanses the temple. Set up a pretend temple with tables and "moneychangers." Encourage family members to take on different roles, discussing the reasons behind Jesus' actions.
Table Turning Craft:
Create a craft project where family members design and build tables to represent the ones overturned by Jesus. Discuss the symbolism and significance of cleansing spaces meant for worship.
Sensory Activity - Blindfold Experience:
Experience a blindfold activity to understand the challenges faced by the blind. Discuss Jesus' compassion for the blind and how we can extend compassion to others.
Clutter Purge:
As a family, take time to physically clear out the clutter out of "your house". Make it a family project for the day to get rid of anything and everything that isn't being used anymore or simply taking up space and help make your home a "house of prayer".
Tuesday: Teachings of the Savior:
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22:36-40)
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:
43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. (Matthew:34-45)
Here are a few activities you could do to make this day more meaningful:
Loving Kindness Calendar:
Create a calendar with daily prompts related to loving God and loving others. Each day, focus on a specific action or attitude that demonstrates love, both towards God and neighbors.
Scripture Art Project:
Engage in a creative art project where each family member illustrates the two great commandments. Discuss the artwork and the significance of the visual representations.
Love in Action:
Plan a day of service as a family. Choose a local charity or community project where you can actively demonstrate love for your neighbors through acts of kindness and service.
Bible Verse Memory Game:
Create a memory game using index cards. Write different aspects of the two commandments on the cards and have family members match them correctly. Use this as an opportunity to discuss each aspect.
Neighbor Appreciation Day:
Organize a special day to appreciate your neighbors. Make homemade cards, bake treats, or simply spend time with them to foster a sense of community and love.
Love Journal for Neighbors:
Create a shared journal for the family to write notes or messages of encouragement to neighbors. Share positive experiences and express gratitude for their presence in your lives.
Community Cleanup Day:
Plan a community cleanup day where your family actively participates in keeping your neighborhood clean. Use this as an opportunity to engage with neighbors and show love through service.
Blessing Bags:
Create "blessing bags" containing essential items like non-perishable food, water, hygiene products, and warm clothing. Keep these bags in your car to distribute to people in need when you encounter them.
Prison Ministry:
Investigate opportunities to participate in prison ministry or support organizations that work with inmates. This might include writing letters, providing resources, or engaging in prison outreach programs.
Nursing Home Visit:
Plan a visit to a local nursing home or assisted living facility. Spend time talking with residents, playing games, or participating in activities. Bring small gifts or treats to share.
Homeless Outreach:
Reach out to local homeless shelters or organizations that assist the homeless. Offer your assistance in providing meals, clothing, or other necessities.
Guest Speaker Series:
Invite guest speakers, such as representatives from charitable organizations or individuals who have benefited from community service, to share their experiences with your family.
Wednesday: The Greatest Commandments
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. (John 15:9-12)
34 But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together.
35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22:34-50)
Here are a few activities you could do to make this day more meaningful:
Love Chain:
Create a "Love Chain" as a family. Write down acts of love and kindness you've experienced or witnessed. Connect them together to visually represent the interconnectedness of love.
Memory Verse Craft:
Design a craft project featuring the verses. Each family member can create their own artistic representation of the verses, incorporating the key themes of love and joy.
Commandment Scavenger Hunt:
Organize a scavenger hunt around your home or neighborhood where each clue is related to Jesus' commandment to love one another. Discuss the importance of finding and fulfilling these "love" commandments.
Love One Another Pledge:
Create a family pledge based on Jesus' commandment to love one another. Each family member can contribute their ideas on how to actively practice love, and then collectively commit to them.
Story time with Jesus' Teachings:
Read stories or parables from the Bible that exemplify love and obedience. Discuss the lessons learned and how they can be applied in your family's daily life.
Love Languages Exploration:
Explore and discuss the concept of love languages as a family. Identify each family member's primary love language and brainstorm ways to express love in alignment with these preferences.
Random Acts of Joy:
Challenge each family member to perform random acts of joy and kindness throughout the day. Share experiences and discuss the impact of spreading joy to others. Maybe consider combining this activity with the "Love Chain" activity from above.
Love Jar:
Create a "Love Jar" as a family. Encourage each family member to write down specific ways they can show love to God and neighbors. Place these notes in the jar and periodically discuss and act on them.
Commandment Collage:
Make a collage illustrating the two great commandments. Use pictures, words, or symbols that represent love for God and love for neighbors. Display the collage as a visual reminder.
Neighbor Appreciation Dinner:
Organize a dinner to appreciate your neighbors. Cook or order food, set up a festive atmosphere, and share stories or memories of positive interactions with neighbors.
Love Walk:
Take a family walk in your neighborhood, and as you walk, discuss ways you can collectively contribute to the well-being of your community. Share ideas for community service or improvement projects.
Service Project:
Plan and execute a family service project. This could involve volunteering at a local charity, participating in a cleanup event, or supporting a community initiative that aligns with the principles of love.
Thursday: His Sacrifice Begins
14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:
16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
17 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves:
18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
39 And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
47 And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.
48 But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?
49 When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword?
50 And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.
51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
52 Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?
53 When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.
54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off. (Luke 22:14-20, 39-54)
36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.
37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?
41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.
44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.
47 And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people.
48 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast.
49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
51 And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest’s, and smote off his ear.
52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.
53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?
55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.
56 But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. (Matthew 26:36-57)
Passover Meal:
Prepare a Passover-style meal as a family, incorporating elements like unleavened bread and wine (or grape juice). Use this as an opportunity to discuss the cultural and historical context of the Last Supper.
Bake Bread Together
While preparing the bread, discuss the symbolism and meaning of the Sacrament. Take this time to answer any questions your children might have about the ordinance of the Sacrament.
Forgiveness Exercise:
Discuss the betrayal of Jesus by Judas and Peter's denial. Explore the theme of forgiveness. As a family, discuss instances where forgiveness is challenging but crucial.
Garden Together:
Spend a couple of hours together as a family outside tending to or starting a garden. Discuss the events that took place in the Garden of Gethsemane and the impact that moment has made on your life.
Friday: Good Friday
59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;
60 But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,
61 And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.
62 And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
65 Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.
66 What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.
67 Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands,
68 Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?
69 Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.
70 But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.
71 And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.
72 And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.
73 And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.
74 Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.
75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. (Matthew 26:59-75)
1 When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:
2 And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.
3 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
4 Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
5 And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.
7 And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in.
8 Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day.
9 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value;
10 And gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord appointed me.
11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.
12 And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.
13 Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?
14 And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.
15 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.
16 And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.
17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?
18 For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.
19 When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.
20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
21 The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.
22 Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.
23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
24 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.
25 Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
26 Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
28 And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
29 And when they had plaited a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
30 And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.
31 And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.
32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
33 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,
34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
36 And sitting down they watched him there;
37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
38 Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.
39 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
40 And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
42 He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.
43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.
44 The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.
48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.
49 The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.
50 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.
51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.
55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children.
57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathæa, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple:
58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.
59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,
60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.
61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. (Matthew 27:1-61)
Here are a few activities you could do to make this day more meaningful:
Reflective Artwork:
Encourage family members to create artwork that reflects the emotions and events described in these verses. This could include drawings, paintings, or sculptures representing Jesus, the high priest, and Peter.
Character Analysis:
Explore the characters involved in these verses, including Jesus, the high priest, and Peter. Discuss their motivations, choices, and the consequences of their actions.
Character Letters:
Write letters from the perspectives of Jesus, the high priest, and Peter. Explore their feelings, thoughts, and motivations during the trial and denial. Share these letters and discuss the insights gained.
Saturday: The Tomb
55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children.
57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathæa, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple:
58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.
59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,
60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.
61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. (Matthew 27:55-61)
Commandment Challenge:
As a family, create a "Commandment Challenge." Discuss Jesus' commandments and come up with practical ways to follow them throughout the week. Share experiences at the end of the week.
Comforter Craft:
Make a craft that represents the Holy Ghost as the Comforter. This could be creating a visual representation or crafting a reminder for each family member, symbolizing the abiding presence of the Holy Ghost.
Scripture Memory Game:
Create a memory game using index cards with different commandments or verses related to peace. Match the commandment with its reference or discuss the meaning of each verse as you play.
Peaceful Reflection Night:
Have a family night dedicated to peaceful reflection. Light candles, play soft music, and take turns sharing moments when you felt the peace of Christ in your life.
Women of Devotion:
Explore the stories of the women mentioned in these verses—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses. Discuss their devotion to Jesus and how their examples inspire devotion in your own lives.
Joseph of Arimathæa Service Project:
Emulate Joseph of Arimathæa's act of service. Plan a family service project or act of kindness in your community, and discuss how such actions contribute to discipleship.
Resurrection Garden:
Create a Resurrection Garden as a family. Use small plants, rocks, and decorations to depict the tomb and resurrection. Discuss the hope and joy that come from Jesus' victory over death.
Commandment Collage:
Create a collage that visually represents Jesus' commandments. Use images, words, or phrases to illustrate each commandment. Display the collage in a prominent place as a daily reminder.
Holy Week Journaling:
Begin a Holy Week journal. Write down thoughts and reflections on Jesus' teachings, the comforting presence of the Holy Ghost, and the peace that comes from following His commandments.
Sharing Peace Stories:
Share personal stories within the family where you experienced peace during challenging times. Discuss how keeping Christ's commandments played a role in those moments.
Family Tomb Visit:
If feasible, visit a cemetery or a quiet place as a family to reflect on Jesus' burial. Discuss the symbolism of the tomb and the hope that comes with the Resurrection.
Sunday: Easter
1 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.
2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.
3 Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.
4 So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre.
5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7 And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
8 Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10 Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.
11 ¶ But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
12 And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
13 And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.
14 And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.
16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.
17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.
19 ¶ Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.
21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.
22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:
23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
24 ¶ But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
26 ¶ And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
30 ¶ And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:
31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (John 20:1-18)
Resurrection Reenactment:
Encourage family members to reenact parts of the Resurrection story. Designate roles for Mary Magdalene, Peter, the other disciple, and angels. Discuss the emotions and thoughts of each character.
Easter Sunrise Gathering:
Plan a sunrise gathering on Easter morning. Organize a family sunrise watch and reflection time. Emphasize the symbolism of the rising sun representing the Son of God.
Tomb Exploration:
Create a DIY tomb using a large box or materials available at home. Allow children to explore the "tomb" and discover the empty space. Discuss the surprise and joy of finding the tomb empty.
Angel Craft:
Engage in an angel craft activity. Create angelic figures using paper, fabric, or other craft materials. Emphasize the role of angels in delivering messages of hope and joy during significant moments.
Scripture Exploration:
Organize a family scripture exploration session. Read and discuss the verses together. Use this opportunity to share insights, questions, and personal reflections on the Resurrection story.
Cooking Together:
Cook a special breakfast or meal together as a family on Easter morning. Discuss how the disciples may have felt as they discovered the empty tomb and shared a meal with Jesus after His resurrection.
Reflection Journals:
Provide each family member with a journal. Encourage them to write or draw their reflections on the Resurrection story. Share and discuss these reflections during a family gathering.
Angel Messages:
Write messages of hope and joy on paper "angel" cutouts. Place these angels around the house or in the neighborhood for others to find. Discuss the significance of spreading messages of hope.
Easter Garden:
Create a miniature Easter garden using plants, flowers, and small figurines. Discuss how the garden represents new life and resurrection. Encourage each family member to contribute to the garden.
Sharing Personal Encounters:
Share personal experiences where family members have felt the presence of the divine or experienced moments of spiritual enlightenment. Discuss the significance of personal encounters with the divine.
Joyful Testimonies:
Invite family members to share testimonies of moments when they have felt the joy and hope that come from knowing and believing in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
We hope these ideas help to inspire you and your family to make this Easter season both meaningful and memorable! What Easter traditions does your family have? Comment them below!
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