Christmas may get all the hoopla, the festive carols, the bells and whistles, but when it comes to the most important day in the Catholic liturgical calendar, Easter wins out.
Pope Leo I (c. 400 - November 10, 461) called Easter the greatest feast, and said that Christmas is celebrated only in preparation for Easter.
Easter sets the dates for other feasts, such as the Ascension and Pentecost. It is the oldest feast in the Church.
Why is Easter so important and special? Because it celebrates Jesus' resurrection from the dead, and his promise of eternal life for all who believe in him.
- Little Black Book, Diocese of Saginaw