Watch as worshippers in Sunderland remember the meaning of Easter at Good Friday Praise event in Mowbray Park

The event has been running for the last eight years, with a two year curtailment due to the Covid pandemic.

The service, which was attended by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith, saw the congregation sing hymns, recite prayers and listen to a sermon by pastor Nathan Weaver, who was highlighting the true meaning behind Easter.

Dozens of people of different faiths gathered in Mowbray Park to enjoy the spiritual event.

The Christian celebration had a real musical feel with the Salvation Army brass band playing and performances from the Vessels of Praise, an African style choir who sang a range of spiritual songs.

At the end of the service, the congregation were presented with a New Testament bible, stamped with a King Charles III Coronation symbol.

The Good Friday Praise was organised by Rev David Hands MBE, from the Church of the Nazarene in Sunderland.

Rev Hands said: “Easter is the most important event in the Christian calendar and, unlike Christmas, we are encouraged in the bible to celebrate it. The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation on which Christianity is built and it’s important we gather here to praise God and remember what Easter is all about – the celebration of the risen Christ.”

SEE ALSO: Watch as Wearsiders enjoy their Good Fryday fish and chips

After two years of cancellations due to the Covid pandemic, this was the second year the event has returned to the city.

Rev hands said: “It was wonderful to be able to gather together once again after the pandemic and see people from all different backgrounds of faith.”