Easter Sunday at St John’s was nothing short of glorious—a morning filled with warmth, song, laughter, and a few surprises along the way!
While our lovely vicar Steve is still unwell (please do keep him in your prayers), we were in incredibly good hands thanks to Sue from St Peter’s in Prestbury, who kindly stepped in to lead our Easter Sunday service. With her gentle presence, wise words, and a dash of quiet humour, she guided us beautifully through the heart of Holy Week. Thank you, Sue—you were a blessing!
The service included readings that helped us reflect on the depth of the Easter story, beginning with Psalm 42 (“As the deer pants for streams of water…”)—a poignant reminder of our longing for God, especially in times of uncertainty and waiting. From Leviticus 16:2–24, we looked back at the Old Testament traditions of atonement and sacrifice, setting the stage for the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection. Then, in Luke 23:1–25, we followed Jesus through his trial—a sobering but vital part of the journey toward the empty tomb.
Easter Sunday saw the Tin Church filled with familiar faces, fresh spring light, and a buzz of anticipation. We gathered for Holy Communion, celebrating the resurrection: Jesus is alive! One of the most moving parts of the Easter story, as Sue reminded us, is when Mary sees Jesus outside the tomb and at first mistakes him for the gardener. But it’s when he gently says her name, “Mary,” that she recognises him. A powerful reminder that Jesus knows each of us by name, even when we don’t yet recognise him walking beside us.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Easter without a good sing—and we were in fine voice! The rafters rang out with:
🎶 Hymn 76 – Jesus is Lord!
🎶 Hymn 1105 – See What a Morning
🎶 Hymn 691 – Jesus Lives! Thy Terrors Now
🎶 Hymn 633 – Father, Lord of All Creation
🎶 Hymn 689 – Thine Be the Glory
By the final hymn, “Thine be the glory, risen, conquering Son,” we were practically ready to burst—what a way to proclaim the good news!
After the service, we kept the celebration going with plenty of tea, coffee, hot cross buns, and a fabulous Easter cake (or two!). Laughter, catching up, and shared joy filled the air—and as a final treat, Arthur handed out Creme Eggs to everyone as they left. Because let’s face it: Jesus is risen, and chocolate helps spread the word!
A huge thank you to everyone who played a part—whether you read, sang, served, baked, welcomed, or simply came along to be part of it all. Even with Steve away, this Easter felt full of hope, full of heart, and full of life.
He is risen indeed—Alleluia! 🌸