The debate of tradition in the lead up to Easter has reared its head this year thanks to hot cross buns being on sale just days after Christmas. 

Father Robert Murphy from St Peter’s Anglican Church said hot cross buns had no religious meaning. 

“They are a bit like the Easter eggs and candy canes, there’s no real religious tradition attached to them,” he said. 

“No where in the bible is there anywhere that says you must eat Easter eggs or hot cross buns at Easter. 

“I do think it is a bit ridiculous you could go into the supermarkets and purchase hot cross buns on New Year’s Day though.”

The hot cross bun debate has flared across the country, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment at supermarkets for having the treat out so early. 

Others were happy and said they could eat them all year-round, while bakeries in the region were concerned it was a break with tradition. 

Reverend Richard Keith from St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church said it wasn’t such a big deal. 

“I’ve bought some myself, but I do understand where people are coming from … I don’t have any real personal feelings about it,” he said. 

However, Reverend Keith did feel residents and Christianity as a whole could be doing more to observe the Easter message. 

“The message and death of Christ and his death and resurrection is essential,” he said. 

“The Christian faith has to be more real (in order for people to return to the church) … people can spot a fake a mile away.”

Father Robert agreed and went so far as to say religious times such as Easter and Christmas should be removed as public holidays. 

“I don’t necessarily agree with them being public holidays … churches would make time for people to worship and mark these occasions if it were a work day or weekend,” he said. 

“It’s an interesting debate. 

“It’s hard to try and encourage people to come to church sometimes. The important thing is we continue scripture in the schools. 

“That’s how children can learn and keep the Christian tradition going.” Good Friday this year is on April 14 and Easter Sunday on April 16.