Mahoning Valley - Across the Mahoning Valley, Easter Sunday was marked by messages of hope, acts of service, and moments of reflection.

In Austintown, Pastor Charles Homa of Austintown Baptist Church said their congregation celebrated with a modified sunrise service indoors due to the rain — but the spirit of the day remained strong. The church then opened its doors for a community dinner, part of a new tradition they’ve embraced in recent years.

"We just want everybody to know that if you can make it here, you are welcome here," Pastor Homa said. "This is the place that everybody is welcome."

At the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley, volunteers prepared a hot Easter meal for those in need. Doris Wylie, a cook who has served there for two decades, said giving back through food and faith has become her purpose.

"I just give God the courage that we able to give back by coming in and serving them and be there for the clients," Wylie said. "I’ve not just only been a cooker… I’m a little bit mom, grandmother, mentor — you name it to them."

Also reflecting on the deeper meaning of Easter, Bishop David Bonnar of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown emphasized the power of resurrection and renewal.

"Holy Week is the Super Bowl of our faith… what we enter into is what we call the paschal mystery — the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus, which gives us all great hope," Bishop Bonnar shared.

Children across the Valley also took part in the holiday fun, with egg hunts held Saturday and Sunday, and many waking up to find plastic eggs scattered across their yards.

From worship to service and celebration, Easter in the Valley reminded many of the power of community, compassion, and new beginnings.