This Easter Sunday many gathered around the community to do Easter their way.
Shepherd of the Hills Church organized Easter Worship for approximately 14,000 guests under a tent, and for some horses too. Unfortunately due to slight rain only a few equestrians rode their horses to worship. The gathering took place in an open meadow near the corner of Porter Ranch Drive and Rinaldi Street.
"Hopefully some people will walk away with a renewed spirit of the absolute miracle of the resurrection of Christ," said Paula Cracium, director of development for the Porter Ranch church. "Hopefully some people will accept that gift that is the resurrection of Christ and him sacrificing our life for us -- that they will accept that in a new way or maybe for the first time."
Guests sat underneath the 50,000-square-foot tent to sing their praises out loud and listen to nondenominational words of wisdom from Pastor Dudley Rutherford.
In Chatsworth, Freedom Church held their first ever service at McG's Pub & Grill at 21356 Devonshire St. Many sat along the bar to worship and listen to the service delivered by Pastor Jusice Coleman.
Easter Sunday church-goers were treated to lunch inside the pub while kids anxiously waited at the Chatsworth Karate studio next door to receive a free bike. The church gave away 200 bikes to local kids.
"We wanted to be able to bless people, and give some kids, that maybe couldn't afford bikes, some bikes," said Maria Coleman, Freedom Church executive pastor.
If you happened to drive by the Devonshire Street devotion, you may have seen baptisms taking place near the sidewalk. The church prides itself on wearing it's faith out loud and proud.
"This church it's amazing, unbelievable, in a great area," said Christine Biyan, a Freedom Church guest. "We got a little bike here for our girl, we're very excited for her to ride it, she's excited. [It's] our first time here we love it, we're returning back."
