Christians around the world Sunday celebrate the central event of their faith – Easter – the holiday that marks what Christians believe is the triumphant resurrection of Jesus three days after his crucifixion.

Many Christians, including Protestants and Catholics, make it a point to go to church on Easter, even if they rarely do so on other Sundays.

There are a number of Easter customs, including attending sunrise church services, and dyeing and decorating eggs.

Pope Benedict is marking the holy day with a Roman Catholic Mass in St. Peter's Square.

Thousands of Christians gathered in Jerusalem late Saturday near the Church of the Holy Sepulcher on the site where many Christians believe Jesus was crucified and buried.

Eastern Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter on April 15.