5 Hampton Roads churches worth checking out this Easter Sunday

If you’ve been to the grocery store anytime within the past few weeks, you’ve undoubtedly been tempted by shelves packed with jelly beans, little marshmallow chicks, chocolate bunny rabbits and pretty much every other type of sweet known to man.   As you inevitably find yourself gorging on these sugary treats (come on—admit it), hopefully you’re reminded that Easter is right around the corner.  Whether you’re a committed churchgoer looking to branch out or are simply trying to meet your annual quota of Christmas and Easter, here’s a cheat sheet for which services might interest you most this coming Sunday.  While you obviously won’t be hitting up all of them, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding one that suits your interests.

1) For the ODU Monarchs Fan

New Life Providence—a church of about 3,000 people spread out across three separate campuses—will be holding its Easter service on ODU’s campus this year at the Ted Constant Center.  The church prides itself on its multiethnic environment, with music reflecting both contemporary and traditional styles while simultaneously throwing in the occasional gospel vibe or Latin swing.  The service starts at 10:30 and goes till 12:00.  The best part?  Getting into the venue for free!

10171736_10151925941327143_476125562_n2) For the Music Lover

Here’s one with some serious potential to upset any fundamentalists in the crowd—Wave Church will be presenting the gospel featuring Beatles music.  That’s right.  Beatles music.  How they intend to tie this in with the resurrection is a total mystery, but it couldn’t hurt to check out, right?  There will be three services at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM.  Wave Church is known for its concert-like atmosphere, so the production value of this service will no doubt be top-notch.

3) For the Dramatic Arts Connoisseur

For all the theater types out there, Deep Creek Baptist Church is putting on their own Easter production, titled The Journey.  The play will be performed every day through Easter Sunday, and portrays the entire biblical account of Jesus’ journey from the creation to his resurrection.  To reserve your (free!) tickets and find out showtimes, visit Deep Creek’s website.  I’ve heard good things about the play in years past, and this year the church has a new and improved set and a different batch of songs.  So if you’re looking for something other than a regular sermon this year, Deep Creek is for you.

4) For the Starving College Student

If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate environment where you can meet some people and hang out for a bit, you might want to check out RED Church.  The church’s website even encourages people to come as they are, meaning no stuffy church clothes required.  And as an even bigger incentive to join in, the church will be having a free potluck lunch following the sermon, which starts at 10:00 AM.  Seriously, who can turn down free food?  If you’re interested in checking out more, click here.

5) For the Traveler

Going to visit family on Easter, but don’t want to go out of the way for church?  Upward Church is having services in Norfolk, Williamsburg and Newport News.  Just pick whichever location is most convenient for you, and you’ll be good to go!  And with its relaxed, coffeehouse atmosphere, you shouldn’t have a problem feeling right at home.  To learn more about the church, check it out here.