CLEVELAND — As Catholics celebrated Easter Sunday here in greater Cleveland, Pope Francis did the same in St Peter's Square.
His message:
"Let us make haste to surmount our conflicts and divisions, and to open our hearts to those in greatest need. Let us hasten to pursue paths of peace and fraternity. Let us rejoice at the concrete signs of hope that reach us from so many countries, beginning with those that offer assistance and welcome to all fleeing from war and poverty."
Easter Sunday this was not the only holy holiday being celebrated. The Jewish are in the middle of Passover and Ramadan is being celebrated by Muslims. Every 33 years, the three religions become one celebrating on the same weekend.
Rabbi Jonathon Cohen is with the Temple Tifereth Israel in Beachwood. He said, "And here we are all members of all monastic religions thinking about these themes thinking about community, thinking about family, thinking about freedom, thinking about respect, dignity and hope."
Imam Islam Hassan from the Cleveland Islamic center shares, "We all believe in the same Lord even though our faith is different. We all believe in humanity."
Easter Sunday marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. For Christians, Jesus died to save mankind from sin. Passover in the Jewish faith reminds them of the biblical story of the Israelites escape from slavery in Egypt.
Ramadan is a commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation. Ramadan is considered the holiest month for Muslims.
While all three holidays are observed differently, it does open up a conversation, dialogue and faith.
"We're all people we all believe in something the overall goal and message, but for us as Christians and Presbyterian's is to be Christ-like. If people get along, fine. It's not an issue for anyone people think too much about it. Being one in the community and all the people around you is really and important message."