Churches join together to celebrate Easter

 VISTA — Easter was different this year for millions of people all-around the globe. The social distancing restrictions brought by COVID-19 changed the holiday that many spend with families and in Churches worshipping. However with creativity a few churches were able to hold an Easter service even in the middle of a pandemic. Calvary Baptist Church of Monte Vista, Center United Methodist Church, Monte Vista United Methodist Church, and Valley Church of the Nazarene all came together to host an Easter service at the Movie Manor Drive-In Theatre.
Vehicles with worshippers quickly filled up the parking spots tuning into 95.3 KSLV Radio which broadcast the service. As they drove into the theater masked volunteers wearing gloves handed them programs, lyrics to the songs, and prepackaged communion cups and wafers. The preaching and singing happening  in front of them from a flat-bed trailer parked in front of the screen.

Those in attendance were not allowed to leave their vehicles and safety and social distancing restrictions were followed. During the service cars flashed their lights and honked their horns in place of saying amen and hallelujah. Friends and neighbors were able to see one another and wave. As they sang the same songs playing on radio, they were able to feel together even though they were separated by windows and car doors.
Pastor Chris Yokam of Valley Church of the Nazarene began the service by leading those in attendance singing “Oh, Glorious Day,” followed by prayer. Pastor Debbie Upton gave a monologue which was followed by Autumn Yocom beautifully leading in song, “Because He Lives,” and “Living Hope.” Upton then did a scripture reading of the Easter story.
Pastor Steve Dunkel led the partaking of communion together. Everyone in their own vehicles each taking of the bread and the cup in remembrance. Corina Settle then sang, “Great are You Lord,” which was followed by Calvary Baptist Pastor Bob Galey preaching a sermon.
“Today I want you to know that all of these churches that have come here and been a part of this, we came and we did this together to tell you that we love you and that we all believe God loves you. So let today be a different day. Let today be the day that we leave here excited knowing that our Lord is alive and well, at the right hand of the Father. That I don’t have to fear my enemy the devil anymore because Jesus Christ has conquered death and if I die today, if I die tomorrow, I know that I will see Him in glory in an instant. Let’s leave here today wanting to make sure other people know this too,” said Galey as he closed his sermon encouraging those there to share their faith with others. A benediction was then given by Pastor Steve Dunkel and the service ended.