Churches in the Battlefords are looking forward to Easter Sunday. (Photo 154953735 © Davide Bonaldo | Dreamstime.com)

By Josh Ryan

Easter Sunday

Local churches celebrate Easter

Apr 3, 2021 | 12:08 PM

After last year’s Easter celebrations were cancelled at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, churches in the Battlefords are excited to celebrate the annual holiday in person again this weekend.

Since the province increased the number of patrons in places of worship to 30 per cent or 150 people (whichever is less), churches have already been able to host services for a few weeks.

Casey Sitter, lead pastor at Living Faith Chapel in North Battleford, said they’re still complying with the new regulations as they host an Easter Sunday service. Sitter doesn’t foresee an issue, as they’ve removed seating to meet protocols.

So far, they’re averaging around 90 people. Sitter said he’s confident they can accommodate all who come.

“We’re still encouraging everyone to follow the rules and stay safe,” he said. “We’re still having church and no complaints [so far] from our congregation.

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“It’s a step forward and we’re happy for that. There’s hope, that’s for sure.

Sitter said it’s important to keep maintain traditions and have landmark services celebrated around the world, particularly and around Easter and Christmas. And while safety precautions are being maintained,

“There’s a different feel to it, having more people,” he said.

Sitter said this year’s sermon will be a traditional message, adding that the community can’t lose sight of hope, particularly now.

“If we focus on all the negative things going on in the world, we can get down in the dumps,” Sitter said. “But if we focus on the message of Easter, Hope, and reconciliation, it gives us reason to believe and know our best day is yet ahead.”

Reverend Phinh Do of St. Joesph Calasanctius Church said they were also thrilled to host their congregation on Easter. Living Faith, St. Joseph’s could have as many as 150 people. The week leading to Easter is the most important week in the Catholic faith.

“We have to go with Christ on a journey, and this week, we had so many people waiting to come back,” he said.

Do said they’ve also been able to work with the protocols. After a whole year under the pandemic and limited gatherings, he said it’s a weekend to be grateful.

We’re thankful to be able to get back to church and be able to worship God together.”

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cjnbnews@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports