Democratic Sentinel, Volume 21, Number 16, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 April 1897 — Day of Great Joy. [ARTICLE]

Day of Great Joy.

The Easter of Rome transcends in pomp and splendor that of all other countries. The Pope, is borne into the great gallery of St. Peter’s, and gives his solemn benediction, “to Rome aud the world.” Poland feasts at this period on saffron cakes, roast pig aud little lambs served

with pistachio plums. The number of dishes cooked is enormous. Eggs form n part of all the pastimes. The religious services are devout and impressive. In Mexico it is the great festivnl of the year. In the City of Mexico the population till lie streets and the parks, which resemble the most beautiful gardens. People passing each other in the streets throw flowers with their salutations. Bands discourse sweet music, and there is general abandonment to the delights of the festival of their “Sunday of joy.” In America the occasion is observed generally but quietly. Presents are exchanged, eggs and flowers are given a prominent place, and the church services are unusually impressive. If the Americans had any special use for the festival in n worldly way they lrnght designate it ns thej'feast of hats.” The feminine portion of the community wear new hats, according to the ancient tradition that to be lucky all the year, something new must be worn on Easter Sunday.