Easter Brings Life Changing Decisions For Many at Cypress Church:
He is Risen! He is Risen indeed! That responsive announcement has been recited at Easter services for centuries. But do people really believe this? At Cypress Church, many worshippers made life changing decisions as hundreds of Orange County families joined together to celebrate the true meaning of this joyous occasion.
On Palm Sunday, March 16th, Cypress Church began Easter Week with a reenactment of the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Palm branches and coats covered the aisles and “Hosanna” was proclaimed. On Tuesday, March 18th, the Student Ministries, directed by Danny Kugelberg, presented “Forever Changed.” This program looked at Easter through the eyes of the Apostle Peter and showed how the lives of Christ’s disciples and the world were altered for all time through the physical death and resurrection of Jesus.
“Maundy Thursday,” March 20th featured a communion service that celebrated the new command Jesus gave to His apostles at the Last Supper. The choir, led by Steven Brooks performed the musical “The Risen Christ.” This presentation was based on the songs of modern day hymn writers Keith and Kristin Getty as well as the music of Stuart Townsend.
The “Tenebrae” service was held on the evening of March 21st which was Good Friday. This powerful worship experience focused on the sacrifice of Christ on the cross at Calvary. The sanctuary was lit with candles and decorated to resemble the Temple in Jerusalem during the time of Christ. The ceremony ended with the opening of the veil to the Most Holy Place which symbolized the availability to all of a personal relationship with God.
On Easter Sunday there was a joyful celebration of the Risen Savior who offers everyone an opportunity to enjoy eternity in Heaven with Him. The congregation joined the choir in singing uplifting songs such as “You Are God Alone” and “Alive Forever.” They were accompanied by the orchestra and praise band. The three morning services featured a Living Cross. Pastor Mike McKay told worshippers that there is no issue in our lives so bad that Jesus would turn His back on us. He reminded everyone, “Jesus never made a promise He could not and would not keep!”
The final event of Easter week was an Easter Egg Hunt held Sunday afternoon at Larwin Park. Children from the community were able to collect candy filled eggs and some golden eggs with exciting prizes inside. The Egg Hunt was organized by Cypress Church Children’s Ministries Director DeVonna Drey. Volunteers from the church cleaned up the park and supervised the event to provide a fun, safe environment for all participants.
The Cypress Church campus is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View. Sunday services are at 8:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. For more information about activities such as Awana, Bible study groups and All Pro Dad breakfasts call the Cypress Church office at (714) 952-3001 or visit their web site at: www.cypresschurch.net.
Cypress Church Worship Leader Steven Brooks singing with Marcy Guevara
and Rachel Mascarella on Easter Sunday 2008.
Cypress Church Pastor Mike McKay explains that forgiveness is available
for all who choose to believe.
Children from Cypress Church and the surrounding area search for
Golden Eggs at Larwin Park on Easter Sunday.