Churches Together in Witham and District Easter Witness Service 2026

IThe Churches in Witham – Church of England, Catholic, United Reformed, Baptist, Assemblies of God and Methodist - came together as one body to proclaim the hope of the Resurrection at our annual open-air Churches Together Easter Witness Service held on Holy Saturday at the Grove Precinct.
The service, coordinated by Revd. Howard Schnaar, was led with warmth by Revd Dr. Jonathan Pritchard. The service began in a spirit of unity. Together we lifted our voices in song with old hymns and new, with music played on the keyboard by David Brett, affirming our shared faith in the Risen Christ. Representatives from our different congregations shared in reading passages from the Bible from the events of Good Friday to the joy of Easter morning. Hearing the familiar story through many voices reminded us that the Gospel belongs to us all. Some who passed by stopped to listen.
Revd Lorna Bantock delivered a powerful message, she challenged us to carry Easter hope and New Life secured by the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, back into our streets, workplaces, and homes. Just before the message, A Melodrama based on the Sacred Song, “Were You There When they crucified my Lord?” was enacted yet again by Stanley Njie, David Cole-Njie and Olive Anofienam. The atmosphere was deeply moving.
Revd ‘Femi Cole-Njie led us in closing prayer and the blessing. We’re grateful to everyone who took part, read, sang, acted, and served in other ways.
Fellowship continued as Holy Family Church hosted the sharing of hot cross buns. Over tea, coffee, buns, and conversation, churches, we believe became family. Thanks to all who came and witnessed together. The tomb is empty. Jesus is alive. And our Town heard it!