Church chiefs right to cry foul’ over Easter

Chris Carter HOW MANY people know the origins of the naming of our months? Most people have an inkling that some were named after Roman gods, with March being the most obvious (Mars), but the rest are a bit hazy. One wonders whether in years to come the reason for the

Chris Carter

HOW MANY people know the origins of the naming of our months?

Most people have an inkling that some were named after Roman gods, with March being the most obvious (Mars), but the rest are a bit hazy.

One wonders whether in years to come the reason for the Easter "holidays" will be similarly forgotten.

Of course, for years Easter has meant little more than a chocolate feast for much of the population, but this year the weekend is in danger of passing by without a thought for what it's all about.

While not being a regular church-goer, I am inclined to agree with the incoming Archbishop of Westminster in thinking that holding some Premiership matches on Easter Sunday is a step too far.

I wonder what he would think of Good Friday Easter fun day being held in neighbouring Barking and Dagenham, complete with face painting, Easter bunnies and a bonnet contest.

It may come as a surprise but Good Friday was no picnic for Jesus - and certainly not a reason to celebrate. It might have been wiser to wait until Sunday to bring out the bunting.

This diluting of Christian holidays doesn't seem to be something other faiths indulge in.

While Diwali is a long drawn-out time of celebration, I can't imagine that the worshippers are unaware of what it is about.

The Jewish festivals are similarly marked and the community is proud to uphold the traditions, just as is Eid for the Muslim community.

I know I will be accused of being a killjoy, but is it too much to ask for people to spend some time on Good Friday away from the shops and maybe taking a minute to reflect on their lives?