07 Apr Easter Story: Rockford, Ill.

From Barry Skinner, senior pastor of Kilburn Avenue UB (Rockford, Ill.)

On Sunday evening, April 4, about 12 of us held an Easter chapel service at the Rockford Rescue Mission. On Saturday, in preparation for the service, we had made 180 sack/dinners and Arby’s provided us with 180 roast beef sandwiches and condiments (which were picked up Sunday evening so they would be fresh).

The theme was the victory we have in Christ Jesus because of what He accomplished on the cross. Several people responded for prayer in their lives. One fellow in particular broke down in tears as I prayed for him; the Holy Spirit was indeed present when I prayed with him.

We also walked the community inviting folks to our pancake breakfast on Easter Sunday morning. Preparation for that was also done Saturday morning.

On Easter Sunday we celebrated the risen Christ and had special music from guests Charles and Linda Nealy (who also went to the Rescue Mission with us that night). We also had our communion service and six other people came who do not normally attend. Two young boys from the community came and bonded with my grandson who is their age, and they stayed for most of our service.