Easter very different for many this year due to COVID-19

Sunday, April 12, 2020

News 12 at 6 O'Clock

MARTINEZ, GA. (WRDW/WAGT) -- Though the COVID-19 pandemic continues, people found creative ways to celebrate Easter.

Parishioners from Abilene Baptist Church filled Carolina Pottery's parking lot in efforts to worship while practicing social distancing.

This year Easter was a little different, instead of handclaps of praise, there were horns of worship.

In efforts to practice social distancing, some people celebrated from inside their car.

Dr. Brad Whitt is the pastor at Abilene Baptist Church. He says churches may be empty, but faith is alive.

He gave special thanks to many people on the front line of this pandemic and encourages everyone to keep pushing.

Some churches streamed live services two or three times on Sunday.

"I wanted them to feel that hope was alive," Pastor Mike Hearon said.

Hearon says it's unusual to preach to an empty church on Sunday, but this Sunday is the day of resurrection.

"It was such a reminder as the light came through the windows the shutters were open that we have hope," Hearon said.

Hope was the big message Hearon wanted many people to take away.

"People are asking what I would call ultimate questions. They want answers to help them through the pain of not just losing their jobs, but to the pain of the coronavirus," Hearon said.

Whether worshiping from home, online, or even in your car, keeping the faith alive looks to bring better days.