“The Glory of Easter” was the theme at North York Temple, Ontario Central-East Division, as they celebrated the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They also used the theme as the title for their Saturday concert.

On Friday morning, the service was a mixture of solemnity and expectation, through musical selections such as Silent Vigil (band), Gentle Shepherd (songsters), Green Hill (singing company) and the congregational song Arise, My Soul Arise.  The message, entitled "Roll the Dice" by Major Randy Hicks, focused on the events surrounding the cross.

On Friday afternoon, several members of the band formed a brass ensemble to
head up a procession celebrating the Easter season, organized by the Armenian Apostolic Churches in Toronto. This event attracted 2,000 participants on the procession through the streets of Scarborough.

The Saturday evening concert, The Glory of Easter, featured the Elmer Iseler Singers, a renowned 20-voice professional choir from Toronto.  Other than The Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah, the audience was treated to vocal performances of exclusively Salvation Army music.  The North York Temple Band's feature item was Ray Steadman-Allen's The Holy War.  This demanding work outlines the journey of a soul from security, to threats of the devil, spiritual battle and finally jubilation.  The North York Temple Singing Company and Timbrels were also featured in the program.

On Sunday morning, 250 people attended the community breakfast, generously prepared by chefs from the Pickle Barrel.  A rousing devotional that focused on the reality of the death and resurrection was shared by Commissioner Marilyn D. Francis, territorial president of women's ministries.

Following breakfast, a petting zoo featuring live animals attracted the attention of the local community.

The Easter Sunday Celebration Service was the culmination of the weekend.  Commissioner Marilyn Francis shared the vocal selection Then Came the Morning.  The Bible message entitled “Our Lamb Has Conquered!” was delivered by Commissioner William W. Francis, territorial commander.

Easter weekend is a time for us to re-enter the defining moment in both the life of Christ, and the body of Christ.  The presence of God was keenly felt as North York Temple celebrated Christ in worship and community.  It was a glorious Easter!

Photo credit: Chris Bird