What a Rare Holiday Overlap Means In a Time That Seems ‘Catastrophic’

This weekend, followers of three major religions are observing some of their most sacred holidays. Many will do so together, in person, for the first time in years.

Easter, Passover, and Ramadan all have their own symbolism and themes. And it’s not a stretch to tie any of those themes to world events; from the COVID-19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine.

We invited three faith leaders to tell us about the messages they’re bringing to their congregations during a difficult time – and a holy time: Reverend Marshall Hatch of the New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, Senior Rabbi Ruth Zlotnick of Temple Beth Am in Seattle, and Imam Mohamed Herbert from The Islamic Society of Tulsa.

In participating regions, you’ll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what’s going on in your community.

Email us at considerthis@npr.org.