MOORESVILLE, N.C. — It’s a return to "normal" this Easter for churches in the area.
Places of worship aren’t facing COVID-19 restrictions like they were the last two years, and the Diocese of Charlotte is expecting a big turnout this Easter.
What You Need To Know
- Churches can celebrate Easter without COVID-19 restrictions this year
- St. Therese in Mooresville is expecting thousands to attend Sunday's service
- Father Mark Lawlor, the parish priest, is excited to see parishioners he hasn’t seen since before the pandemic
At St. Therese in Mooresville, parish priest Father Mark Lawlor says he’s expecting thousands.
"We had 2,600 people or so last weekend for Palm Sunday and we are looking at having a potential of double that of over 5,000 people,” said Lawlor, referring to the holiday weekend.
It was a busy week for the diocese, as they held special Masses during their Holy Week tradition, which started on Palm Sunday and ends with Easter.
One special Mass was their Chrism Mass, where they bless the sacramental oils that will be used at their parishes for the coming year.
Lawlor says he’s excited to see parishioners he hasn’t seen in quite some time because of the pandemic.
“It’s great to see the people, especially after two years ago when we were limited to 10 people,” he said.