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Westcity Church Podcasts

Easter Sunday

·49 min·4 clips
Mary Magdalene, weeping at the tomb, turns and hears Jesus call her name, realizing he is alive.
The episode begins with a welcome and a reading from John 20:1-10 describing the discovery of the empty tomb by Peter and another disciple. It continues with John 20:11-18, where Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Jesus at the tomb and is sent to tell the disciples. The host introduces the Easter celebration theme, mentioning songs, a message from Lauren, and fellowship. A reading from John 1:1-4 establishes Jesus as the Word and life. A letter from the World Council of Churches is shared, questioning how to celebrate Easter in a time of war, injustice, and climate disaster, framing resurrection as hope and protest. A prayer follows, invoking Jesus' triumph over death. Songs of worship are interspersed, including 'I Have Decided to Follow Jesus' and 'I Believe'. A reading from John 20:19-23 describes Jesus appearing to the disciples behind locked doors, giving them peace and the Holy Spirit. Another reading from John 20:24-29 covers Thomas's doubt and subsequent belief after seeing Jesus' wounds. Lauren then shares a message, reflecting on John 20. She observes that Jesus revealed himself to Mary weeping, disciples hiding in fear, and Thomas doubting, meeting them where they were. She notes Jesus connected personally with each and then linked them to his broader purpose. Lauren references Jesus' 'I am' statements from John and the metaphor of a grain of wheat dying to bear fruit. She concludes with John 20:30-31, emphasizing belief leading to life. The episode ends with more songs, announcements about a upcoming Sermon on the Mount series, and a Northumbria Community blessing benediction.

As heard by us

An Easter service that lets John 20 breathe and ends by sending people out with peace.

West City Church's Easter Sunday service moves through John 20 with plain, steady confidence: Mary outside the tomb, the linen wrappings, the locked room, Thomas still asking for proof, and the repeated word of peace that meets fear head-on.

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Why you'd press play

You get Easter Sunday as a church service, complete with John 20 and a closing blessing.

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