Easter Weekend at Arbor Christian Fellowship: A Celebration of Christ's Love and Resurrection
This past Easter weekend at Arbor Christian Fellowship was a sacred and joy-filled time where worship, reflection, and celebration came together in a beautiful testament to God's love through Jesus Christ. From the somber reverence of Good Friday to the victorious joy of Resurrection Sunday, it was a weekend to remember—and to give thanks.
Good Friday: A Night of Reflection and Reverence
The weekend began with an incredibly moving Good Friday service, steeped in humility and worship. The evening opened with a powerful, reverent song led by the men of the congregation, setting the tone with deep worship and heartfelt praise. Their voices, united in faith, invited everyone into a holy space of reflection and gratitude.
The service unfolded through a meaningful journey of Christ's seven final statements from the cross. Pastor Jonathan began the evening with a pastoral word, inviting the congregation to fix their hearts on the sacrifice of Jesus. Each saying was then thoughtfully taught and shared, one by one, by dedicated men of the church, offering biblical insight, personal testimony, and spirit-led encouragement.
To close the service, Pastor Steve brought the final reflection, guiding everyone into a quiet, powerful moment of worship and reverence. The presence of God was tangible as the congregation then joined together in Communion, remembering Christ’s broken body and shed blood with hearts full of awe and thanks. It was a deeply holy night that set the tone for the entire weekend.
Saturday: Joy, Laughter, and the Gospel for All Ages
The joy of the Resurrection began to bloom early on Saturday, April 19, when Arbor hosted a community celebration from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The church grounds came alive with the sights and sounds of families enjoying time together—children laughing, running with Easter eggs, lips stained with snow cone juice, and hands full of fresh popcorn.
A highlight of the day was the age-appropriate Easter story time, where children gathered to hear the good news of Jesus’ love and sacrifice just for them. Their eyes sparkled with understanding, and their hands shot up with questions—real, thoughtful, curious questions. God’s truth was being sown deeply in young hearts.
After the message, it was all smiles as the kids eagerly hunted for eggs and played a variety of carnival games, earning tickets to exchange for prizes. A clear favorite was the Scripture Memorization station, where children (often alongside their parents) earned the highest number of tickets by learning and reciting Bible verses—hiding God’s Word in their hearts and enjoying every minute of it.
Meanwhile, Women's Ministry Director, Linda Baldwin, and her joyful crew worked on a beloved Arbor Easter tradition: the fresh-flower cross, soon to be revealed on Resurrection Sunday. As petals were gently placed and prayers lifted up, the anticipation of Sunday’s celebration grew.
Resurrection Sunday: Joy Uncontainable
Sunday morning arrived full of light and life. The sanctuary was filled with anticipation, as families, longtime members, and first-time guests gathered to celebrate Resurrection Sunday. The worship was joyful, vibrant, and filled with the power of the risen Savior.
Pastor Jonathan preached an inspiring Easter message, reminding everyone that death has been defeated and Jesus is alive—our living hope! An unforgettable moment came when Reagan, a precious eight-year-old from the Arbor family, was baptized. She asked to be baptized on Easter—a beautiful reflection of her understanding and love for Jesus. Her father had the privilege of baptizing her, with Pastor Jonathan leading the moment, as the entire congregation rejoiced with tears, cheers, and praises to God.
A Weekend to Remember
From the sacred weight of Good Friday, to the joyful wonder of Saturday, to the triumphant celebration of Sunday morning, Easter at Arbor Christian Fellowship was full of feasting, fellowship, and the overwhelming joy of Christ’s resurrection.
"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said."
— Matthew 28:6 (NIV)
If you’re seeking a church home where worship is real, people are loved deeply, and every life is seen and valued—come visit us at Arbor Christian Fellowship. Here, you are not just another number. You are known, loved, and welcomed, and there's a place for you in God’s family.
He is risen! He is risen indeed!