OAKWOOD VILLAGE, Ohio — For many people, Easter means getting together with family and friends for an egg hunt, dinner, or church. That’s all changed this year because of COVID-19.
Experts are urging people to continue to follow social distancing guidelines. They’re asking people to not gather at church services, for community egg hunts, and family dinners.
They suggest watching online church services, hunting for eggs in your own backyard with your own kids, and video chatting with family members instead of gathering for dinner.
Several churches in Northeast Ohio still found ways to celebrate the holiday safely, including Mt. Zion Church in Oakwood Village.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity, and we’re praying for those who aren’t able to do what we’re able to do,” church member Jacqueline Johnson said.
Johnson and her husband Robert joined dozens of other church members Sunday to worship from their cars in the church’s parking lot.
“We miss the physical fellowship, but when Pastor Macon offered us this opportunity, as you can see, the parking lot is filled with folks who feel that they need that connection,” Johnson said.
Pastor Larry Macon spoke to his flock over the radio as he stood in front of them on a stage out in front of the church. Everyone is doing their part to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
“It's not the best substitute, but it is one that we look forward to,” Johnson said.
Johnson even invited friends and family to join in as well, including Vicki Ward Oliver. She attends another church, but decided to come check out Mt. Zion’s service.
“It's just a blessing that we can all come together and continue to worship, even though we are in our cars,” Oliver said.
Jade Jarvis is a reporter at News 5 Cleveland. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
