MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. (April 4, 2013) -- Hundreds of Cherry Point families celebrated Easter Sunday with festivities at Miller’s Landing.
Navy Lt. Dianne Coleman, a chaplain with the air station, started the event with a nondenominational worship service.
Following the service, 600 people made reservations for the brunch buffet, which put Miller’s Landing at its maximum capacity.
“It’s very nice for people to have a large gathering spot they can come to,” said Richard Rogers, the club and catering manager of Miller’s Landing. “A lot of people bring their families in from out of town. One gentleman told me he has 10 grandchildren and he’s got the whole crew here. He said it’s a very exciting time for him because they very seldom get everyone together.”
Miller’s Landing, Marine Corps Community Services, and the station chapel formulated the plan that made the event a successful Easter family outing. The Single Marine Program also provided volunteers to help and keep an eye on children during two Easter egg hunts held that day.
“I love being out here,” said Lance Cpl. Bret White, a volunteer at the event. “It’s not only for me, it’s for the kids. I love being with the kids. I couldn’t have asked for a better Easter.”
The celebration held special meaning for White because it was the first Easter spent with his wife and son. They enjoyed the festivities and reaped the benefits of a family function.
“I really think it raises morale with families getting loved ones together,” he said.
For those of faith, the event was also educational. Coleman kicked off the Easter egg hunt with a biblical lesson designed for the children. During the optional lesson, they recited the Easter story together, in which Christians believe Jesus died for humanity’s sins and was resurrected three days later.
Coleman said Miller’s Landing hosted a very wholesome event.
“You can come to Miller’s Landing, you get to go to church, eat a meal, spend time with your family, and you get an Easter egg hunt,” said Coleman. “It’s kind of cool in one location.”