Easter is one of the most complex of Christian holy days in its deep-seeded mingling of nature's Spring Equinox and the Judaic and Christian mysteries. The theme of Resurrection, which fulfills the purpose of the Crucifixion for Christians, also corresponds to the fertility and rebirth of nature at the Spring Equinox -- which was symbolized in pre-Christian (Pagan) times by the egg, rabbit, lily and other elements. The moon also plays an important role since for the western world Easter Sunday is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon that falls after March 20, the usual date of the Spring Equinox. This connection to nature's moon cycles overrides the historical association with the Jewish Passover, which Jesus celebrated with his disciples on the night before he was taken from the Garden of Gethsemane. Thus, because of the moon, Easter might be celebrated more than three weeks before Passover! However, perhaps the most important aspect of all holy days and commemorations of nature's cycles is the enlivening of spirit and communion that ritual can help to rebirth.