Easter Sunday traditions flourish across Hamilton community

On this Easter Sunday, Christians around the world are reflecting on messages of resurrection, hope, and new beginnings. In Hamilton, the day brought families together for fun, food, celebration, and connection.

In a world that can often feel busy and sometimes divided, it’s the little moments like these that bring people back together.

Some families across Hamilton were spending Easter Sunday outside, soaking in the spring weather and each other.

For many, the day is about something simple, time with the people who matter most. “We’ve come to the park because it’s a beautiful place to go with the small kids,” said one parent.

And for others, that togetherness continues later, around the table. “My wife and I are getting together with family later on, and we’re going to have a nice turkey meal,” said one resident.

For many, the day began inside places of worship. Where the meaning of Easter takes centre stage and where community comes together.

“It really symbolizes family to me more than anything. I’ve been coming to his church since 1998.”

WATCH MORE: ‘I do it for the kids’: Can crushing fundraiser in Fisherville, Ont. raises thousands

For Winfred Mbugua, this Easter marks a first. She is celebrating in a new country, a new home, and while there’s a sense of missing what was left behind, there’s also comfort in what’s been found here.

“I come from Kenya. This is my first Easter in Canada. I’m also missing my people back home, but I’m happy that here I got a very warm welcome,” said Mbugua.

And after the service, many gather again, this time around the table.

“How wonderful to actually be present with one another. I think we cherish it more now,” said Priest Associate of Christ’s Church Cathedral, Monica Romig Green.

Leaders here say that a sense of connection is at the heart of Easter.

Rev. Ian Mobsby of the Anglican Diocese of Niagara says he thinks “today is about hope, and it’s about resilience — how do we survive in a very pernicious world. So there’s something about building up people’s hope and encouragement to keep going in a difficult world.”

For families, Easter offers something many say matters most —time together.

WATCH MORE: Warm weather brings out many for Good Friday, Easter weekend