The week that changed everything

beginning with the passover seder, the ‘last supper’
leading into the crucifixion of Jesus, his death and resurrection...
That week marks the beginning of a chain of events, sightings of the resurrected Jesus,
the ascension of Jesus into heaven, 
and Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit to his church.

Through these events God’s relationship with humanity changed eternal course,
and by remembering these events through God’s Word, we celebrate Jesus who has brought us close.

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This year, inspired by the events of Jesus’ ministry marking humanity’s redemption, we have developed an Easter booklet
 to read and reflect together through the heartbeats of God’s story. 

Easter provides an amazing opportunity to share the hope that can only be found in Jesus with our friends, families, neighbours and wider community. This Easter we are encouraging churches to share the message of hope in Jesus by reading through God’s Word from Holy Week through to Pentecost. 

How to share the hope of Jesus with your community this Easter:

1. Buy two copies of each resource for everyone in the church. Encourage people to use the resources during Easter and pray for opportunities to give them to family, friends and neighbours.
    
2. Do you know that it is 18-24 year olds in Scotland who are most likely to be turning to the Bible? If you live near a college or University, are there student residences where you can gift these resources?
    
3. There has been a huge increase in the number of teenagers exploring the Bible in Scotland. Why not give these resources to the young people in your church and wider community? How about encouraging any teens you have in your church to share these resources with their friends?
    
4. Gift Wonder Walks to families you know. With the Easter holidays coming up, they’ll be looking for things to do together outdoors. For church families, this encourages conversations about Jesus and for families who don’t go to church, it’s a great way to explore the story of Jesus.
    
5. Do you have a toddlers group in your church or community? Why not give a copy of these resources to the families who come?
    
6. Give a copy of John: Light & Life to everyone in the church and encourage people to read it with someone in the church or the wider community.
    
7. Take your youth or children’s group on a Wonder Walk - have fun and talk about the Easter Story as you enjoy time together.
    
8. Encourage families to go on Wonder Walks and invite their friends to go with them.
9. Invite adults in the congregation to go on a Wonder Walk on their own or with friends.