Church Family Moment for Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025

By Director of Spiritual Formation Rebecca Guzman

Christ, we come to the empty tomb—we see our own emptiness, our failures in love and justice, our shared guilt and brokenness. We remember how we have treated others—our families, our friends, our neighbors—and the ways we have turned away from compassion. We come with the pain of the world, the cries of the hungry, the wounds of war, and the loneliness within. At the tomb, we lay it all before you—seeking hope, seeking healing.

Church Family Moment – Luke 24:1–12 (Easter Sunday)

1. Twas the Morning of Easter
   One of the best ways to enter the Easter story is through the beautiful book Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist. It tells the story from Mary Magdalene’s perspective—full of wonder, surprise, and joy. If you are worshiping from home, click here to listen to her read the story aloud. What do you think it was like to be Mary on Easter morning?
2. Count the Alleluias
   No matter where you are worshiping, see if you can count the number of times we say, “Alleluia!” in worship today. Alleluia means “praise God!” Every Sunday is kind of like a little Easter, because we set aside time to praise God together, but on Easter Sunday, we remember especially that love always wins, and that makes us want to have a huge celebration!
3. Easter Joy Hunt
   Go on a Joy Hunt! Create a little Easter basket or decorate a bag, then walk through your house or yard and collect five things that remind you of new life, hope, or joy. It could be a flower, a bright color, something soft, or a picture of someone you love. Afterward, talk with your family about why you chose each item.
4. Journal, considering the following:
   a. What would you have done if you were with Mary at the empty tomb?
   b. What do you think the disciples felt when they heard the news?
   c. How do you see signs of new life around you today?
   d. What does Easter joy look like in your life right now?