We are knee deep in Lent now, but Easter is coming! Our traditional Easter breakfast has been displaced by COVID, and our team is getting creative about alternative programming that supports our families and health standards but still allows for the excitement and love that matches the day. This Easter gives us the opportunity to engage in new ways—a fitting celebration for the day Christians are given the gift of new life in Jesus, freshly risen from the tomb. Honor God’s unconditional love and victory over death with these group activities that extend Easter beyond the bunny.

Tie Dye Tees

Instead of traditional egg dyeing, bring new life to old tees with a tie dye party. Invite families to bring used t-shirts or thrift store finds for a refresh with brightly colored dyes. Draw parallels between dyeing and dying. Store the wet, dyed clothing in individual storage bags for three days between the dip and the rinse to help the dyes take hold and as a reminder of Jesus’ three days in the tomb.

Make a Mood Mix

Dive into the range of emotions that come with the events of Holy Week into Easter with music. Explore the stories and feelings of the disciples as they experience Jesus’ journey from life to death and back to life. Consider Good Friday moments of deep sadness and chaos, the hope and reflective waiting, and the joy of Easter. Make an all call for students’ favorite tunes that match those emotions and put together a playlist to share on social media.

Loaves of Love

For a service twist on the traditional Easter breakfast, remember the families of those in your community who have died in the past year. Contact the church office for a list of names and addresses. Hand out recipes for families to bake at home or order loaves from a local bakery. Arrange for doorstep deliveries of these loaves of love with handmade Easter cards.

Kite Fest

Get outside together to experience the wind and changing weather. Craft kites from a cross-shaped frame and set a date to fly them. Give awards for the most tangled string, and the longest, shortest, and highest flights. God’s love is an anchor to us kites on even the most blustery of days. The cross holds our kites together so they can soar, as the events of the cross gift us God’s grace and love.

I wish you a blessed, joyful Easter! And a glorious nap that brings you back to life.