EASTER

Resurrection of Christ depicted in 14th-century fresco in Chora Church, Istanbul, Turkey. LP7/Collections E+ via Getty ImagesEarly on April 4 morning, the following message appeared on the Twitter account of the Rev. Raphael Warnock, the newly elected U.S. senator from Georgia: “The meaning of Easter is more transcendent than the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Whether you are Christian or not, through a commitment to helping others we are able to save ourselves.” He later deleted the tweet, but n

The housing secretary will set out measures to force developers to pay for cladding removal.

A geodesic home in Texas has made a recent roundup highlighting the best Airbnbs in the...

Abraham Lincoln used the holidays to restore national unity.

A South Carolina man was sentenced to life in prison Tuesday for the 2019 abduction and murder of a 21-year-old college student who mistook his car for her Uber ride.

Elliott Investment Management, the owner of Barnes and Noble, said Tuesday it will acquire gift and stationery retailer Paper Source.

“It is probably the highest compliment that can be paid when someone rerecords a song you have recorded,” the singer says.

Friday cold front brings weekend weather changes to SE Texas!

Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus in the Chicago area and the rest of Illinois.

Worshippers celebrate second Easter of the pandemic; “Pet nannies” see boom in business thanks to pandemic

The Transportation Security Administration screened over 1.5 million air travelers on the Friday before Easter, the most since the pandemic began. Before the holiday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new travel guidance for people who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Dr. Ron Elfenbein, the medical director and owner of First Call Medical Center, joined CBSN to discuss.

The Transportation Security Administration screened over 1.5 million air travelers on the Friday before Easter, the most since the pandemic began. Before the holiday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new travel guidance for people who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Dr. Ron Elfenbein, the medical director and owner of First Call Medical Center, joined CBSN to discuss.

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has tested positive for COVID-19 a few days after receiving his first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

Sharyn Alfonsi reports on corruption allegations clouding Florida's efforts to vaccinate its residents.

Inside Florida's chaotic vaccine rollout; Then, inside Florida's chaotic vaccine rollout; And, survivors recount being stranded on island as teens 50 years ago.

As millions of people each day receive vaccine shots, the nation is seeing an increase in public gatherings and travel. Government officials continue to urge American citizens to remain vigilant amid the second Easter of the pandemic. Lilia Luciano reports.

Hundreds of residents in Manatee County, Florida, were ordered to evacuate their homes over Easter weekend as officials feared that a wastewater pond could collapse "at any time." Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for the area on Saturday. CBSN's Lana Zak has the details. <a href=https://cbsn.ws/3sRXrCe target=_blank><b>Read more here</a></b>.

Christianity’s most joyous feast day is being celebrated worldwide with worshippers spaced apart in pews and singing choruses of “Hallelujah” through face coverings for the second Easter Sunday in a row.

This is the definition of cuteness overload.

Italy has entered a three-day nationwide coronavirus lockdown to deter Easter travel and get-togethers.

"He wants to be with the people, to go to the fringes, to be with the poorest of the poor, and the pandemic has robbed him of all of that," said CBS News Vatican contributor Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo.

French hospitals have brought in extra staff for the Easter holiday weekend to cope with growing numbers of virus patients.

Italy is back under coronavirus lockdown with cases rising across Europe, leaving the Vatican virtually empty for the second Easter in a row. The shutdown comes as the Catholic Church struggles with a falling number of followers. Chris Livesay reports from Rome.

Houston Newsmakers: Easter, faith and COVID-19 response

President Biden is spending the Easter weekend at Camp David, but gearing up for his next battle with Congress as his $2 trillion infrastructure proposal is already meeting opposition from Republicans. This comes after the Labor Department released a better-than-expected March jobs report. Christina Ruffini has the report.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has cleared fully vaccinated Americans to travel just in time for Easter weekend. The change in guidance comes as more states scale back their coronavirus restrictions, but amid soaring infection rates. Tom Hanson has the details.

From dispensing holy water with a squirt gun to dressing up for virtual service, church-goers kept their faith.

A registered dietitian shares healthier Easter basket options for kids, that are still fun without all the sugary treats. And for the adults, she’s cooking up a flavorful Easter lunch of Grilled Lamb Loin Chops with Corn on the Cob and Grilled Romaine.

"No business, no food - nothing! No life!" lamented an exasperated shop owner in Jerusalem's Old City, which should be packed with tourists right now.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are expected to release new air travel guidance Friday. Dr. Bob Lahita shares with CBSN's Anne-Marie Green and Vladimir Duthiers what to know if you have to fly and ahead of any family gatherings for the upcoming Easter holiday as well as other developments related to the coronavirus pandemic.

For the second year in a row, Easter celebrations will be very different in Jerusalem. Elizabeth Palmer visits one of the holiest sites in all of Christianity and learns how the sacred space is managing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

JERUSALEM (AP) — Christians in the Holy Land are marking Good Friday this year amid...

South Korea’s daily increase in coronavirus infections exceeded 500 for the fourth straight day, a pace unseen since January, as experts raise concern about another viral surge amid a slow rollout in vaccines.

Italy may be in a strict coronavirus lockdown this Easter, with travel restricted between regions and new quarantines imposed.

For a second year, Christians in the Holy Land are marking Good Friday without the mass pilgrimages usually seen in the Holy Week leading up to Easter because of the coronavirus.

“There needs to be a quiet Easter festival,” Merkel said in a video address. AdIn contrast, Britain has given one vaccine shot to 46% of its people. Health Minister Jens Spahn said routine vaccinations will begin in doctors' practices on Tuesday, with 35,000 GPs scheduled to receive 940,000 vaccine doses next week. Germany expects to receive about 40 million vaccine doses during the second quarter. AdMerkel, who is 66, says she would be prepared to take the AstraZeneca vaccine.

As Pope Francis begins the second Easter celebrations during COVID, cardinals and other clergy members have to take a pay cut. Lack of tourism to the Vatican during the coronavirus pandemic has caused the Catholic Church’s revenue to drop drastically. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay joins CBSN AM from Rome to discuss.

Lack of tourism at the Vatican during the coronavirus pandemic has caused a drastic drop in revenue for the Catholic Church As Pope Francis begins the second Easter celebrations during COVID, cardinals and other clergy members have to take a pay cut. Lack of tourism to the Vatican during the coronavirus pandemic has caused the Catholic Church’s revenue to drop drastically. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay joins “CBSN AM” from Rome to discuss.

People wearing face masks to protect against the spread of coronavirus walk in downtown Madrid, Spain, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)MADRID – Spain’s Madrid region halted COVID-19 vaccinations Thursday at health centers for four days so medical staff can rest over the Easter holiday, despite pleas from the national government not to halt the fight against surging infections. Health Minister Carolina Darias last week urged regional authorities to keep vaccinating over the Easter break, saying it was “very important” to keep up the inoculation program. Spain, like other European Union nations, has had a surprisingly slow vaccine rollout that authorities blame on vaccine shortages. AdIt also noted that vaccine shots will still be administered at a city hospital and a city soccer stadium over the traditional Easter break.

Easter at the Vatican: Pope Francis faces second year of reduced numbers and revenue For the second year in succession, Easter weekend will be very different to that usually celebrated at the Vatican. Rather than thousands of faithful in the audience, it will be reduced numbers, social distancing and masks. As Chris Livesay reports, diminishing donations and closures at tourist hotspots like the Vatican museums have also resulted in a drastic drop in revenue for the Catholic Church.

Here are the warmest, coldest, wettest and snowiest Easter holidays in Chicago, according to data from the National Weather Service.

Do YOU want to be on live TV?!

For Christians across the United States, Easter services on Sunday will reflect an extra measure of joy as the nation experiences rising optimism after a year of pandemic. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)For Christians across the United States, Easter services on Sunday will reflect an extra measure of joy as the nation experiences rising optimism after a year of pandemic. It’s a season of major holy days for other faiths as well, occurring in a brighter mood than a year ago. Jews are observing Passover this week, and Muslims will enter the holy month of Ramadan in about two weeks. AdDas said he loves the festival because it celebrates diversity: “It acknowledges that we complement each other — different ethnicities, different nationalities, different genders.

Palm Sunday, March 28 brings us the first full moon of the new spring season: the Paschal full moon. If the Paschal Moon occurs on a Sunday, Easter is the following Sunday. But based on the "ecclesiastical" full moon (which occurred a day earlier) Easter occurred on the same day of the full moon, April 19. The other side of the lunar coinThe Paschal full moon of spring is also the mirror-image of the full Harvest Moon of autumn. In direct contrast to the Harvest Moon, the Paschal Full Moon appears to rise considerably later each night.

As Romania battles against a surge of COVID-19 infections authorities announced on Thursday March 25, 2021, that Easter celebrations in the deeply Christian country will physically go ahead this year. AdThe Easter Service is one of the most important dates in the Christian calendar. On the night of the Resurrection, Romanian Orthodox worshipers attend a service at midnight when they receive the Holy Light. “Preventing physical Easter in an Orthodox country in times when people need safety but also hope is not one of those." The prime minister also said he used Thursday's meeting to urge religious authorities to support Romania’s vaccination campaign, which has delivered more than 2.6 million vaccines shot so far.

Easter is Sunday, April 4.

A cyclist passes in front of an ambulance by an infectious diseases hospital in Warsaw, Poland, on Thursday, March 25, 2021. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)WARSAW – Poland's government ordered stricter pandemic measures for the two-week period surrounding Easter, describing the new rules Thursday as an attempt to limit human contacts amid a deadly surge in the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said he knew the more severe measures come during a period when families traditionally spend time together for Easter, and it would require a sacrifice from Poles. “The evolution of the virus and the British mutation is leading not only to more infections, but also causing more hospitalizations,” Health Minister Adam Niedzielski said. The higher numbers in Poland come amid more testing.

Can’t decide what to cook for Easter? Let Houston-area restaurants do the work for you.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reversed plans on Wednesday for a coronavirus lockdown over Easter amid criticism from experts and officials over the move. The plans had called for placing the country in a strict lockdown over the Easter holiday — which would have seen all shops and churches close from April 1-5. Nevertheless, it was a mistake," Merkel said during a press conference, according to German news outlet Deutsche Welle. A mistake should be called a mistake and above all, it should be corrected, preferably in good time," she added, according to the news agency. "It was well reasoned, but was not really doable in such a short time," Merkel said Wednesday, reflecting on the original lockdown proposal.

New coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in Utah have been on a downward trend since January. Ad___SAO PAULO, Brazil — Brazil has reached 300,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths and become the second nation to top that figure. ___BOISE, Idaho — The governor of Idaho has said COVID-19 vaccine eligibility will be open to all Idaho residents 16 and up starting April 5. ___WAILUKU, Hawaii — A hospital on Maui had to throw out nearly 1,400 vaccine doses after a refrigerator thawing the vials did not properly seal. Also, COVID-19 deaths have dipped below 1,000 a day on average for the first time since November.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends the weekly cabinet meeting of the German government at the chancellery in Berlin, Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Kay Nietfeld/Pool via AP)BERLIN – German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday dropped plans for a five-day shutdown over Easter, which had prompted confusion and criticism. The same group, faced with rising coronavirus infections, had come up early Tuesday with the unexpected plan for tighter restrictions over Easter. Ad“The idea of an Easter shutdown was drawn up with the best intentions, because we must urgently manage to slow and reverse the third wave of the pandemic,” Merkel said. Merkel said, even without the Easter shutdown, the decisions that she and the state governors came up with offer a “framework” to beat back the new wave of coronavirus infections.

^ Keep Houston Press Free Support Us LocalCommunityJournalismI Support Support the independent voice of Houston and help keep the future of Houston Press free. Easter brunch will be served 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition, guests can enjoy a special Easter dish, “The Mixed Grill Asado,” for $55 from 11 a.m. to close. Tony's, 3755 RichmondTony’s will offer Easter Brunch To-Go complete with favorites like Deviled Eggs, Quiche Lorraine, Smoked Salmon, Whole Sliced Beef Tenderloin, Braised Lamb Shank, Mrs. Vallone's Whole Carrot Cake and more. True Food Kitchen, 1700 Post Oak, 281-605-2505The nutrition-conscious kitchen will be offering Easter brunch on both Saturday and Sunday, with to-go specials, family meals, and mimosa bundles.

HOUSTON – The weather is getting nicer, which is perfect for Easter egg hunts! These are the events hosting Easter egg hunts in the next two weekends:7 Acre Wood Easter Egg FestWhere: 4401 Frazier St., ConroeWhen: Saturday, April 3, 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Bay Area Raceway Easter Egg HuntWhere: Bay Area Raceway, 3825 Gulf Freeway, DickinsonWhen: Saturday, April 3, 12 p.m. 🐰🐣 We're inviting all the kids for a FREE Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 3rd! Moms & Dads, bring... Posted by Bay Area Raceway on Sunday, March 14, 2021Know of any Easter egg hunts happening in the Houston-area?

Faced with a possible flood of visitors from Germany later this month, authorities in Spains Balearic Islands are warning hotel owners that tourists must adhere to coronavirus restrictions the same way residents do. But the restrictions havent stopped eager German tourists who have rushed to book flights and accommodation this week following their governments removal of the islands from a list of high-risk contagion zones. (AP Photo/Joan Mateu, FIle)MADRID – Faced with a possible flood of visitors from Germany later this month, authorities in Spain's Balearic Islands are warning hotel owners that tourists must adhere to coronavirus restrictions the same way residents do. But the restrictions haven't stopped eager German tourists who have rushed to book flights and accommodation this week following their government's removal of the Balearic Islands and other holiday destinations from a list of high-risk areas. Tourism accounted for 12% of Spain's gross domestic product before the pandemic and nearly a third of the Balearic Islands' output.

Rome — A year after COVID-19 struck Italy, more than half of the country's residents were set to be placed back under hard lockdown restrictions from Monday, March 15 at least through Easter. Restrictions are being tightened in response to yet another rise in case numbers — Italy is entering a third wave of coronavirus infections. medical staff tend to a patient in the COVID-19 unit of the Bolognini hospital in Seriate, Bergamo, Italy, March 12, 2021. MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP/GettyItaly was the first country in the world to implement a nationwide lockdown last winter, when it was the nation at the epicenter of the pandemic. The country's inoculation campaign began in late December, but like other European nations it has suffered delays in the distribution process.

This year’s Easter baskets can be enhanced with the sweet smell of marshmallow. After the company announced they will take a brief hiatus from production last year, Peeps, the holiday-themed marshmallow brand, unveiled “marshmallow-scented” grass that enhances the sweet treats of an Easter basket filled with goodies, Delish reported. The grass comes in several vibrant colors such as pink, green, blue and purple and can be mixed in the basket with other colors. Each grass pack is $1 and is sold exclusively at Dollar General. The Peeps brand has recently stepped up their merchandise since its hiatus, from bringing teddy-bear sized Peep plushies at Build-a-Bear Workshop to build-your-own cookie coops for decoration, according to Delish.

HOUSTON – If you think your pet is some-bunny special, enter their picture on Cadbury’s website so they can be the next Cadbury Bunny. That’s when Cadbury will let the public vote on the cutest animal. The winner wins $5,000 and a spot in this year’s Cadbury Easter commercial. Last year’s winner was Lieutenant Dan, a two-legged treeing walker coonhound from Ohio. The Hershey Company says Lieutenant Dan will be a guest judge in this year’s competition.

HOUSTON – Houston Methodist Hospital was organizing a vaccination event on Saturday and said it worked with state officials to find those who need it most. “We’ve already vaccinated over 41,000 Houstonians and so we’re proud of that,” said Cathy Easter, Senior Vice President of Community Development at Methodist Hospital. Methodist Hospital plans to vaccinate 4,000 more people on Saturday. Memorial Hermann opening vaccine clinic at NRG ParkMemorial Hermann is set to open a coronavirus vaccine clinic at NRG Park this week and opened registration for appointments to the public. On Wednesday evening, officials said all available appointments for Memorial Hermann’s vaccine clinic at NRG Park are full.

The music of Andrea Bocelli brought us comfort and hope when we needed it most. "It was important to give this prayer to everybody and to try to give hope and optimism," said Bocelli, who contracted COVID-19 shortly before that concert. It is the theme of his new album and his Christmas concert, which is taking place on Saturday. The concert, live-streamed from the Teatro Regio in Parma, Italy, will explore the wonder of Christmas through the eyes of his 8-year-old daughter, Virginia. CBS News asked Bocelli.

If you’re clicking around on the remote control while watching TV this weekend, odds are, you’ll stumble on som sights of Augusta National Golf Club. Yes, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, that will be the case for the first time in the history of the illustrious tournament. Paul Casey of England plays a shot on the second hole during a practice round prior to the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on November 09, 2020 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Patrick Smith) (Getty Images)One of the reasons the Masters is often the most-rated golf tournament is the stunning sight of azaleas and other flowers throughout the course. No fansThis won’t be any different from any other golf tournament or major sporting event this year.

Dr. Stephen Ostroff, a former deputy commissioner and chief scientists for the Food and Drug Administration and deputy director for the Centers for Disease Control, shared five guidelines people should follow to stay safe while celebrating Halloween. Most Halloween celebrations are outside and costumes already require masks, so get creative with face coverings and gatherings. “Work with your child to think of ways to integrate clever, while still protective, face coverings into their Halloween costume,” Ostroff recommends. “Consider holding a small outdoor gathering of children with required physical distancing in the yard or elsewhere in the neighborhood. For more tips on how to stay safe this Halloween visit the CDC website.

FILE - This Feb. 13, 2013 file photo shows Peeps at the Just Born factory in Bethlehem, Pa. Peeps holiday treats are going on hiatus another consequence of the coronavirus. PennLive.com reports, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020, that Just Born Quality Confections says it wont be producing the popular sweets for Halloween, Christmas or Valentines Day as the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based company prepares for next Easter. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Peeps treats are going on hiatus for several months — another consequence of the coronavirus pandemic. Just Born Quality Confections said it won’t be producing the popular marshmallow sweets for Halloween, Christmas or Valentine’s Day as the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based company prepares for next Easter, PennLive.com reports. Just Born, which has been in business since 1923, said its other seasonal confections are expected to return to store shelves by Halloween 2021.

DETROIT – A Roman Catholic priest in the Detroit area has taken aim at his parishioners in a bid to maintain social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic, using a squirt gun to shoot holy water. Photos posted on social media by the St. Ambrose Church show the Rev. Tim Pelc shooting water into a car window as it stopped by the steps of the church on Easter. One shows the 70-year-old priest amid the fires of hell directing the squirt gun at devil-like figures. One photo shows Pelc standing behind a car with its hatchback door up, shooting water at a basket of flowers.

-A British scientist advising the government on its coronavirus response resigned from his role on Tuesday, after the Daily Telegraph reported he had broken lockdown rules by meeting a female friend. The Telegraph said he had been visited by a 38-year old woman on two occasions. This would breach rules which say citizens must only leave their homes to shop for food, for exercise or medical needs, or if they cannot work from home. "I acted in the belief that I was immune, having tested positive for coronavirus and completely isolated myself for almost two weeks after developing symptoms," Ferguson's statement said. "I deeply regret any undermining of the clear messages around the continued need for social distancing to control this devastating epidemic.

Three teens cited for allegedly shooting, killing animals at Galveston sanctuary over Easter weekendStaff were on-site performing a wildlife survey and discovered an American Alligator, Great Egret and Roseate Spoonbill had been shot. The alligator was the only animal that was not immediately killed and is expected to survive. less Staff were on-site performing a wildlife survey and discovered an American Alligator, Great Egret and Roseate Spoonbill had been shot. The alligator was the only animal that was not immediately killed and is ... more Photo: Photo Courtesy: Andrew McCullough (left) And Greg Lavaty/Texas Target Birds Photo: Photo Courtesy: Andrew McCullough (left) And Greg Lavaty/Texas Target Birds Image 1 of / 9 Caption Close Three teens cited for allegedly shooting, killing animals at Galveston sanctuary over Easter weekend 1 / 9 Back to GalleryThree teenagers have been cited for allegedly shooting and killing animals at a Galveston-area bird sanctuary over Easter weekend. Citations issued include killing a protected bird, disturbing nesting birds and harassing nesting birds.

The World Health Organization has identified six criteria for countries looking to slowly lift coronavirus lockdown measures, warning the way down from the peak of the outbreak is "much slower" than the way up. A global public health crisis has meant countries around the world have effectively had to shut down, with many governments imposing draconian measures on the lives of billions of people. As of Tuesday, nearly 2 million people had contracted Covid-19 worldwide, with 119,818 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Some European countries have laid out plans to emerge from lockdown as soon as this month after enduring several weeks of stringent social and economic restrictions. The U.S., the global epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak, has signaled May 1 as a potential date for easing restrictive measures.

The Houston Rockets showed their appreciation to those working the frontlines in response to COVID-19 at hospitals in Houston. On Sunday, the team sent meals prepared and donated by owner Tilman Fertitta’s Post Oak Hotel and La Griglia Italian restaurant to the staff at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Greater Heights and Katy.

Easter storms sweep South, killing at least 19 peopleA home had its roof torn off after a tornado ripped through Monroe, La. (Nicolas Galindo/The News-Star via ... more Photo: Nicolas Galindo, AP Photo: Nicolas Galindo, AP Image 1 of / 12 Caption Close Easter storms sweep South, killing at least 19 people 1 / 12 Back to GalleryJACKSON, Miss. (AP) Severe weather has swept across the South, killing at least 19 people and damaging hundreds of homes from Louisiana into the Appalachian Mountains. Two other bodies were pulled from damaged homes in Arkansas and South Carolina. Mississippi's death toll rose to 11 early Monday, the state's emergency management agency tweeted, promising details later in the morning.

As the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies came to an agreement on a record cut in oil production, U.S. President Donald Trump may have struck his "biggest and most complex deal," according to oil expert Dan Yergin. Just a few weeks ago, Trump had said the early-March plunge in oil prices were "good for the consumer" as it meant lower gasoline prices. "This must be the biggest and most complex deal (Trump)'s ever made," Yergin said. "I would say it looked like a mission impossible a few weeks ago. His comments came after OPEC+ finalized an agreement to cut production by 9.7 million barrels per day the single largest output cut in history.

(CNN) – Ammon Bundy, the rancher who led an armed occupation of a federal wildlife refuge in Oregon, said he plans on holding an Easter gathering despite stay-at-home orders implemented during the coronavirus pandemic. Bundy told CNN he wants to gather several hundred people in Idaho at a yet-to-be-announced location. Idaho is one of the 42 states that have implemented a stay-at-home order aimed at stopping the spread of coronavirus. Some in Idaho feel officials aren't doing enough to mandate the stay-at-home order. According to the Statesman, Bundy held a meeting last month in opposition to the stay-at-home order.

Happy Easter from our KPRC 2 family to yours! Here are Easter messages some of your favorite news anchors and reporters have shared with our viewers today.

Hope City, Life Church featured in FOX 26's Easter service lineupMarch 20 | Trey Al-Uqdah run into the chapel for the Easter egg hunt after attending Easter Service at The Church of St. John the Diving in Houston. March 20 | Trey Al-Uqdah run into the chapel for the Easter egg hunt after attending Easter Service at The Church of St. John the Diving in Houston. Photo: Mayra Beltran, Houston Chronicle Photo: Mayra Beltran, Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 38 Caption Close Hope City, Life Church featured in FOX 26's Easter service lineup 1 / 38 Back to GalleryEven in the darkest hours of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, there are silver linings of hope and faith that Houstonians are sharing this Easter Sunday. On Sunday morning, FOX 26 is broadcasting an Easter Sunday lineup of services from churches all across Houston. The Community of Faith11:30 a.m. Celebration of Church12:30 p.m. Fox Soul Church Easter Special1:30 p.m. Life Church2:30 p.m. Hope City Church3:30 p.m. Houston's First Baptist4:30 p.m. Union ChurchThe schedule for My 20 TV this Sunday:11:30 a.m.

HOUSTON – The Lakewood Church Easter service at 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 12 is a big one. Pastor Joel Osteen will be joined by singer Mariah Carey and actor, director and producer Tyler Perry. With the coronavirus pandemic preventing large, in-person services, all the stars will join Osteen for the service remotely. How to watch:The service will be streamed Live on the church’s Facebook page, YouTube, and LakewoodChurch.com. The Easter Service will stream on SiriusXM’s Joel Osteen Radio channel 128 and on the SiriusXM app.

As churches across the U.S. held Easter services online, officials in states hit hard by coronavirus looked for glimmers of hope that the pandemic might be slowing in some areas. Though New York continued to lead the country with 9,385 deaths, Gov. A federal judge ruled that a Louisville, Ky., church could proceed with its plans to hold a drive-in Easter service. Even in New Hampshire, with comparatively few 929 cases and deaths, Gov. AdvertisementWeve pleaded for weeks and weeks for the federal government to provide testing upfront, De Blasio said.

60 Minutes traveled to Mt. Athos for our story because monks there are painting the iconography for the walls of the new St. Nicholas church. AthosDuring the Holy Week of Easter in 2018, photographers Chris Albert and Thorsten Hoefle captured stunning footage of the services. So many of those Greek Orthodox Holy Week rituals are out of our reach this year. Imagining what this Easter will be like, I think back to the monks on Mt.

He’s considering wearing his blue plaid suit — but with pajama bottoms that will be out of view of cameras capturing him leading online service. “We can’t meet as a church, but we can still be the church,” Thompson said. A normal Easter Sunday would include in-person church services, dressing in pastel colors and a family brunch. “We’ll participate in a church service online, and we’ll probably put on the clothes anyway, take some pictures and enjoy being with our family,” he said. Normal Easter Sunday plans — going to the park for an Easter egg hunt with his grandkids and in-person church services — will be put on hold.

HOUSTON – Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall takes on special meaning this week as Jews and Christians celebrate their holiest time of the year. Coinciding perhaps ironically with the coronavirus pandemic that has infected more than a million and killed many thousands. Congregation Beth Yeshurun Senior Rabbi Brian Strauss said Passover provides life lessons to those of the Jewish faith. No, I think the church is being the church and trying to minister to the least, the last, the lost, our seniors and everyone else in between. "The good news (is) heard clearer when there is bad news in the background,” said Pastor West.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The United States surpassed Italy on Saturday as the country with the highest reported coronavirus death toll, recording more than 20,000 deaths since the outbreak began, according to a Reuters tally. (Graphic: Tracking the novel coronavirus in the U.S. - here)Public health experts have warned that the U.S. death toll could reach 200,000 over the summer if unprecedented stay-at-home orders that have closed businesses and kept most Americans indoors are lifted after 30 days. EMPTY CHURCHESWith more than 90% of the country under stay-at-home orders, the Christian calendars holiest weekend has mostly featured services livestreamed or broadcast to worshippers watching from home. The stay-at-home orders imposed in recent weeks across 42 states have taken a huge toll on American commerce and raised questions about how long business closures and travel restrictions can be sustained. And 36 employees became infected with COVID-19 at a beef production plant in Greeley, Colorado, according to meatpacking company JBS USA.

This Easter will be extremely different from the years before, but you still have the ability to make your small household gathering special and restaurants in Houston are here to help. If you normally go out, consider ordering in. And if you normally cook for several people, take that task off your hands. Restaurants in Houston are offering special Easter meal kits for curbside pick up or delivery. Here are five restaurants offering Easter specials:A’BouzyALICE BlueFrank’s Americana RevivalState FarePeli Peli

Now, for the first time in her 68 years as Queen of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II has released an Easter message, sending words of hope throughout the world. May the living flame of the Easter hope be a steady guide as we face the future." The Royal Family tweeted out Queen Elizabeth's message Saturday, saying, "The Queen speaks of light overcoming darkness, and the hope that Easter symbolises." The Queen speaks of light overcoming darkness, and the hope that Easter symbolises, in a special message recorded to mark the Easter weekend. There are more than 79,800 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United Kingdom, according to Johns Hopkins University, and more than 9,800 deaths.

HOUSTON – The Easter Bunny made a special appearance on Friday in a northwest Harris County neighborhood. “Maintain a safe distance and have fun.”Six-year-old Melissa Mattos was thrilled to see the Easter Bunny. “You can follow exactly where the Easter bunny is,” Calvert said. The Easter Bunny plans to visit several neighborhoods in the Fairfield area on Saturday. You can track his trail here: https://glympse.com/07sz-v9ktFor more information on his whereabouts, check out The Boutwell Team on Facebook.

How to make Easter meaningful amid coronavirus pandemicPlay fun Easter games Play fun Easter games like finding out what your Easter Bunny name is through the Track Bunny website. Play fun Easter games Play fun Easter games like finding out what your Easter Bunny name is through the Track Bunny website. Photo: Screenshot Facebook Photo: Screenshot Facebook Image 1 of / 23 Caption Close How to make Easter meaningful amid coronavirus pandemic 1 / 23 Back to GalleryWith many events and celebrations cancelled due to stay-at-home orders, Easter offers a unique chance to come together and celebrate in different ways this year. Track the Easter Bunny: While you aren't able to get a photo with him this year, you can track the Easter Bunny as he makes the rounds dropping off baskets of goodies. Virtual hangout with family: Get tech-savy and schedule an Easter brunch video chat with friends and family as you share your meals.

The Trump administrations top economic officials said on Thursday they believe the U.S. economy could start to reopen for normal business in May. Friday also marks another day of missed paychecks for millions of Americans, with restaurants, businesses, entertainment venues and schools shuttered across the nation. Some 450 inmates and staff have tested positive for coronavirus at Chicagos largest jail, county officials said. Inmate deaths and high rates of infections have also been reported by officials in New York and Louisiana. Slideshow (4 Images)On her Tuesday night shift, two patients her colleague was caring for both died, and she said he was visibly shaken.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Easter is a special holiday for 6-year-old Nora Heddendorf. She will accessorize her Easter outfit with a white paper mask, blue disposable gloves, and a container of disinfectant wipes. But many Americans are still finding ways to have holiday fun, from an Oregon candymaker making chocolate bunnies wearing face masks to a Texas church organizing a virtual egg hunt using the video game Minecraft. When people are doing their social distancing walks, they can look for rocks - or so-called Easter Eggs. Safe distancing to thwart virus spread is what convinced the Tate Springs Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas, to go digital with its Easter Egg hunt, using Minecraft but disabling potentially scary game elements like monsters.

We have a list of restaurants and markets that are creating packages, meal and cocktail kits to ease the quarantine pain. First, however, we have a restaurant still looking to the future with plans to open, just a little later than expected. Patrons can order meal kits such as G.O.A.T Curry and Rice with frozen curry and rice on the side ($24). Fry's other Houston restaurant State of Grace, however, will remain closed for now as the company focuses its resources on the more adaptable restaurant environments. SNAP Double Up Houston produce boxes can be picked up in the drive-thru or at the Urban Harvest Greeters Booth.

Turner reverses himself, closes city parks for Easter weekendMayor Sylvester Turner on Thursday ordered Houstons parks and trails to close for the weekend, just one day after saying the parks would remain open as long as people practiced social distancing. The reversal, announced at the mayors daily coronavirus news conference, follows Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgos order Thursday closing all county parks for the weekend, which ends with Easter Sunday. The closures include all 165 miles of city trails, including its bike trails. Before opting to shutter all of them, Turner had given park rangers authority to close down crowded parks. If we have an Easter weekend where everybody decides theyre going to congregate, then were going back several steps, she said.

HOUSTON – Parishioners in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston will be celebrating this Easter with churches closed. About one million Catholics that make up the Archdiocese will celebrate Good Friday and Easter Sunday together in spirit but separate in the body. Easter services will be streamed online. In-person services for parishes ended two weeks ago, and the church is also struggling financially. To stream Good Friday and Easter Sunday services, visit the website at www.archgh.org.

With that in mind, we’re making Friday’s KPRC 2 Kids Art Assignment “FAMILY.”Kids, you can draw us a picture of your family, create art showing something you like to do with your family or decorate a holiday card for your loved ones. If you want to create a piece of art as a family, that would be awesome to see too! KPRC 2 Art AssignmentYour child will have the opportunity to create something to go with the day’s theme. Make sure to include their first name only, city, age and a brief description of their artwork. You can also submit your child’s best artwork here for a chance to be featured as our “KPRC 2 KIDS Artist of the Week.”See all of the zoo animals drawings Houston kids sent us for Art AssignmentSee all of the superhero drawings Houston kids sent us as part of Art AssignmentSee the 77 Easter drawings kids around Houston shared with usSee art collage drawings Houston kids sent us for KPRC Art AssignmentSee more than 100 silly drawings kids across Houston shared with us for KPRC Art AssignmentSee 128 drawings of insects Houston kids sent us for Art AssignmentSee 114 'Thank You’ drawings kids around Houston sent us as part of KPRC 2 Art AssignmentSee the 218 scribble drawings kids sent us for KPRC 2 Art AssignmentSee 145 drawings of sweet treats Houston kids sent us as part of our Art Assignment

HOUSTON – Tanji Patton of “Goodtaste with Tanji” shares 3 easy recipes to try this Easter holiday, from Peanut Butter Cup Brownies to Confetti Popcorn and a Prosecco Sherbet drink. All of the recipes are easy to make and easy to enjoy with the family at home. Peanut Butter Cup BrowniesTanji Patton shares her secret to dressing up box brownie mix with peanut butter cups. In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions. Arrange 9 of the peanut butter cups in the pan, then cut the remaining 3 in half and fit in along the edges.

HOUSTON – This year, celebrating Easter may look a little different with social distancing, but never the less, if you’re in need of some festive family fun, we’ve got you covered with fun projects that are budget-friendly. Upcycling expert, Sarah Teresinski shares eggcelent crafting ideas to keep the kids entertained. PROJECT #1: UPCYCLE EASTER EGGS INTO A LEARNING TOOLEaster egg puzzle (Easter egg puzzle)MATERIALS NEEDED:Egg cartonPlastic Easter eggsSharpieDIRECTIONS:On the top portion of the egg:Write the first part of a word, OR Write a capital letterOn the bottom portion of the egg:Write the second part of a word, OR Write the matching lowercase letterMix and match the tops and bottoms to learn new words or the ABC’sPROJECT #2: UPCYCLE OLD BOOKS INTO A BUNNY GARLANDBunny garland (Bunny garland)MATERIALS NEEDED:Old book that's been ripped or ruinedA hole puncherStringGlueCotton ballsScissorsDIRECTIONS:Tear out pages of the book, (the more you use the longer the garland) Fold page in half Trace a bunny pattern on one side of the folded page Cut along your traced pattern Unfold and use a hole punch to punch a hole in the middle of each ear Glue a cotton ball on each bunny for a tail Pull string through the holes in the ears, slide bunnies through, and hang the garland upPROJECT #3: UPCYCLE A SODA BOTTLE INTO A PLANTERBunny planter (Bunny planter)MATERIALS NEEDED:One 2L soda bottleWhite spray paintSharpiesScissors/x-acto knifeFlower or plant of choiceDIRECTIONS:Use an x-acto knife to cut off the top spout of the bottle Use a sharpie to trace bunny ears on the plastic bottle Use scissors to cut bunny ears along the traced pattern Spray paint with colors of choice Use sharpie to draw a bunny face Add flowers or plant of your choiceFollow Sarah on Instagram for more fun projects like these!

Harris County, Texas County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced on Wednesday that all Harris County Parks will close this weekend in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Judge Hidalgo said trends have shown that social distancing may be slowing the spread of the Coronavirus, and efforts may be reversed if residents decide to congregate. If we have an Easter weekend where everybody decides theyre going to congregate, then were going back several steps, Hidalgo said.

As often as Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has mentioned his concerns about people turning out in force at local parks for Easter weekend, it shouldn't come as a complete surprise that today Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced she's closing the county's parks from Good Friday through Easter. We are at a critical moment in our fight against COVID-19, and we cannot afford to let our guard down, Hidalgo said in a press release Were heartened that the actions were taking are already saving as many as 4,500 lives across Harris County. For so many of our residents, Easter and Passover is a time for spiritual fellowship with others, and I want to encourage that to continue at home and online during this critical period. The sooner we come through this together, the faster well be able to return to normalcy and get our economy back up and running again.Earlier this week the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department closed all its parks, saying that park employees were just unable to completely monitor visitors to make sure they were keeping to social distancing standards calling for them to be six feet apart. According to the Harris County press release:

HOUSTON – The Lakewood Church Easter service on Sunday, April 12 is going to be a big one. Pastor Joel Osteen will be joined again by rapper Kanye West for the service, along with singer Mariah Carey and actor, director and producer Tyler Perry, the church confirmed to KPRC 2 Tuesday. Lakewood Church later confirmed all the reported details of the event with KPRC 2. Church officials also said the service will be pre-recorded, on Friday, April 10. To stream Lakewood Church services and for more information, visit the Lakewood Church website.

HOUSTON – Reserved Seder-to-Go kits can be picked up by individuals and volunteers in drive-thru fashion on Tuesday at multiple locations for Passover. The kits can be picked up at the Chabad of Uptown, located at 4311 Bettis Dr., at 11 a.m. - noon and at Chabad of West Houston, located at 12645 Whittington Dr., from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. is still taking reservations for kits to deliver to Jewish patients at Texas Medical Center area hospitals. With 12 Chabad centers throughout the Houston metropolitan area, a spokesperson said Chabad has been well-positioned to provide for the widespread Jewish community. Rabbi Dovid Goldstein said that he distributed nearly 100 kits at the West Houston location.

That's good news for the food companies and retailers that typically get a boost in sales around the holiday. To keep up with the shopping frenzy, retailers ordered more eggs than usual, depleting egg producers' Easter supply. And because candy sellers tend to extend their seasons as much as possible, shoppers have been seeing Easter candy on shelves since February. The company expects to make most of its Easter Peeps sales right around now. That could be because Easter is earlier this year than last, which means there's a shorter shopping period between Valentine's Day — the most recent big candy holiday — and Easter.

HOUSTON – A dog in Ohio is the next Cadbury bunny. The two-legged treeing walker coonhound has been walking on his front two legs for most of his life. Candy-maker Cadbury issued a casting call for all pets to be part of its clucking Easter commercial. The dog is named after the character in “Forrest Gump” who was injured in Vietnam. As the winner of the campaign, the dog will appear in the commercial and his owners will receive a $5,000 prize.

Spring break is right around the corner, and you may be dreaming of a fun family vacation -- but what if a full-fledged vacation is not in the cards or the budget? Spring break is typically right around Easter, which is seen by many as a time of renewal. An Easter morning hike would be a great way to kick off your day, so lace up your shoes and soak it all in. Spring break is a great time for a movie marathon, so queue up your favorite streaming service or break into that stack of DVDs. Hosting a staycation is a great way to spend the Easter break, especially if you can keep the kids entertained and happy.

HOUSTON – The beautiful weather we saw during the weekend is expected to continue for a second day during the work week. On Tuesday we are expecting a high in the low 80's with partly cloudy skies. The rain is expected to move in Wednesday. We are expecting to see light rain Wednesday morning and the bulk of the showers will be in the afternoon. Rain is also expected to be with us over the Easter weekend, starting Friday night.