Faithful In Philadelphia Celebrate Easter Sunday; Share Family Traditions
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Easter Sunday is the celebration of life, a day when Christians around the world observe the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. But it's also a day to treasure family and friends.
Both were evident at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church In Mount Airy where the party began with a sunrise service. Parishioners started taking their seats before 5:30 a.m. -- but the celebration on Resurrection Sunday wasn't going to stop after the service ended.
Many people have their own traditions.
"My grandmom would cook a ham. She's not here anymore," Minister Prescious Graham said. "That tradition has been passed on to me."
Family, though, is the foundation.
"Family is everything. I'm blessed to have a very close family that loves to spend time together," said one woman. "It's everything for us."
Congregation member Beverly Bryant was ready to feast with her family.
"Chicken, ham, potato salad, string beans," she said, "corn bread, biscuits, and sweet potato pie!"
Easter Sunday also marked the end of Lent and 40 days of fasting. But Reverend Dr. Alyn Waller said don't over do it.
"When the bible says Christ wanted us to live, it's not just about going to heaven," he said. "It's about really having a good time down here, and part of having a good time down here is feeling good when you wake up in the morning."
Many have said the fasting during lent gave them new found energy and focus to treat their bodies better. However, those who were taking their first sips of coffee in more than 40 days said they were wearing brighter smiles than usual.
