name of the Saxon goddess of Spring and of the Dawn – Eastre. The name “Eastre” was also used to denote the ancient Norse festival of Spring sun, which celebrated the awakening of new life and the death of winter. The Christian Easter gradually replaced the pagan festival, although some of the rites of Spring are still retained. Easter commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the tomb where Hi had lain for three days after his crucifixion. When He was resurrected He did so to fulfill his promise as prooth of eternal life.