On Easter Sunday, we had an Easter Egg Hunt and games for the Karen children. When we suggested to the Karen leadership that we host an Easter Egg hunt, they were thrilled! In fact, they were so excited because the children had never experienced an Easter Egg hunt or the American traditions of Easter. After Easter worship, we gathered at a nearby park – one within walking distance, since many of the Karen people don’t have a car. Then, the food came – wonderful Karen food, and the typical American food – we brought 100 pieces of fried chicken. About 80 people were in attendance, 30 of them being children. The weather was beautiful. Each child received a little Easter bucket with their name on it and then they lined up – two groups – 5 and under, and 6 and above. They were excited. They saw us hiding the eggs in the many bushes around the picnic area and they were ready to find their fill! When we said “go”, they ran to find as many eggs as possible. The little ones, who went to an area that had eggs easily found on the ground, just stared at the eggs around them, and then stared at their moms. They really didn’t know what to do. After explaining, and showing them how to drop each egg into their bucket, they got the idea and took off running. After all the eggs were found, they joined the big kids trying to find some in the bushes!
As usual, there were a few that collected many and those who collected only a few. We had saved a few extra eggs to give to those who didn’t have enough. Everyone got plenty!
The Easter Egg coloring was also a huge hit! After the children finished their eggs, some of the ladies were eager to participate. In addition, we had sand art (in bottles), tattoos, balloon animals, coloring flowers and butterflies, as well as a bouncy house, volleyball, and other little games.
We were blessed to have, along with Fran and Pete Stevenson, two families from our church who came out on Easter afternoon to help us work this event. It was a great Easter celebration! Each family also received the Veggie Tale Movie: An Easter Carol. There were smiles all around!
Lita Sample,
CBF Global Missions field personnel