Patna: Devotees thronged city churches to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday.

Around 150 people participated in the night vigil that was organised on Saturday night at Padri Ki Haveli (the oldest church in the state), which continued till early morning on Sunday.

Around 400 people took part in the morning mass that was held from 8am to 10am at the church.

Gospels were read out during the night vigil and morning mass in which the episode of Christ's resurrection was explained, said the priest of Padri Ki Haveli, Father Suresh Xaxa.

During his message, Father Xaxa asked the devotees to travel from darkness to light and find the path of truth from falsehood on the occasion. "The church was illuminated on the occasion of Easter. We hope Easter brings peace and happiness for all," he said.

A large gathering of devotees was also found at the Queen of Apostles Church in Digha and also in the other churches of the city, including Believers Church.

After taking part in the special prayer service in churches, residents celebrated Easter at their homes along with their friends and family. Easter Eggs, which symbolise the resurrection of Christ, were decorated.

Tisha Lawrence (18), who lives in Digha, said: "I took part in the night vigil organised on Saturday night and was back home around 2am. Today I celebrated the festival with my family, including my parents and cousins. We had an Easter Egg from the market for this occasion. We also played a game involving an Easter Egg in which my cousins and I tried breaking the Easter Eggs while being blindfolded. Those who were able to crack the eggs successfully got chocolates filled inside as gifts. In the evening, we would visit a mall and I have planned to watch a movie as well at the theatre there."

Tisha said she also took out time in the day to pay a visit to her relatives' place and wish them Easter personally.

"We had special non-vegetarian menu for the Easter lunch. We had both chicken and mutton dishes. We ended the meal with Easter Eggs made of chocolate and jelly," said Sharon Fernandes, a Kurji resident.