Marching across city, faithful sing paeans to Christ

Lucknow: Christian community in the city observed Easter Sunday with prayers, hymns and a citywide procession celebrating resurrection of Jesus Christ. Early morning services were held across churches in the city, with large congregations gathering for prayers. Sermons and scripture readings focused on themes of hope, sacrifice and renewal.A combined dawn service was also organised at St Joseph's Cathedral, bringing together members from different churches. Addressing the gathering, Bishop Gerald John Mathias said, "When Jesus Christ rose from his grave, he asked his disciples to go and tell the world that he is alive and he will give eternal life to those who follow his teachings."Later in the day, nearly 3,000 people from around 50 churches joined a procession that began at Central Methodist Church in the Cantonment area and passed through Kaiserbagh and Lalbagh before ending at St Joseph's Cathedral.Participants sang hymns and played musical instruments, including guitars, tambourines, flutes and drums, as they moved through the streets. Tableaux depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ, including the Crucifixion and Resurrection, were also part of the procession.Participant Arunima Miller said, "Today is a joyous day for us as our saviour Jesus Christ came alive to reign forever." Another participant, Joseph Lawrence, said he travelled from Delhi to celebrate Easter with his family.Many people gathered along the route to watch the procession. Organisers said the event aimed to spread the message of love, peace and harmony associated with Easter. The celebrations concluded with prayers at St Joseph's Cathedral.