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Southeast Texas celebrates Easter Sunday with drive-in worship services, community parade

While this Easter was unique, people found a variety of creative ways to celebrate

BEAUMONT, Texas — People all around Southeast Texas found unique ways to adapt to celebrating Easter Sunday while staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Church Without Walls in Lumberton held a drive-in service at Lumberton High School. 

"We're just excited to be out here, it is a little bit damp but you know what we're still going to have church today," Pastor Laurie Smith said.

There were also online services for congregations to join as well. 

Father Tony Clark at St. Mark's Episcopal Church says it's important to remember why we celebrate Easter. 

"Death does not have the final word, COVID-19 doesn't have the final word because Jesus has conquered death. He also reminds us do not be afraid," Clark said. 

While many worshiped in groups, one young woman in Vidor host a worship service herself in the garage. Baylei McGowan sat in the open doorway and sang worship songs with a mic and speaker. 

"You want to have a celebration for Easter, but with everything going on you can't really do that especially if you want to stay safe. So, I just figured I'd bring a little celebration to the neighborhood I guess," McGowan said. 

Of course, the Easter Bunny was also included in the Sunday festivities. He spent the afternoon waving to drivers from the John Jay French House in Beaumont. 

If you happened to be driving around near Baptist Hospital or St. Elizabeth hospital, you might have noticed a parade of community support to lift the spirits of those fighting the virus. Police officers and many others drove along the streets with sirens, flashing lights and banners to say thank you to those working to fight COVID-19. 

"Fire, EMS, SO, hospitals, and doctors. They're all front line and they need to be recognized," Volunteer Mark Blieden said. 

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