Such was the co-ordination of such a wide variety of denominations and churches, big and small, that a new trend was commenced in Australia's religious history. That event was called the Easter Awakening. Its emphasis was to share the real meaning of Easter in many ways.
Over the years, it has presented a sea of people of all ages filling four streets, in the form of a cross, in front of the Sydney Town Hall, to the mass coverage of the Sydney Opera House steps.
The concept has spread to other cities across Australia, but in recent years the support and involvement has lessened to such a degree that many locations have questioned whether to hold the event or not.
In Sydney, Sunday, April 24, 2011, the co-ordinators, Fusion NSW, were encouraged to see an increased number attending, from a wide variety of denominations and nationalities.
Korean dancer Yum Kwon and her friends presented their dances in worship of their Lord. Soloist Olivia Clare Vasquez entertained the gathering with several items. A representative of the Coptic Church shared what Easter means in Egypt. Rev David Tse, of the Central Baptist Chinese Church, led in a prayer which moved many of those present.
The Australian compere, David Hammond even suggested the prayer should be printed and circulated for its spiritual depth.
Under police escort, those gathered in Sydney Square, then proceeded to march through city streets to Hyde Park for the Family Festival.
Their colourful flags of many nations, carried by those with involvements in those cultures, attracted the attention of many onlookers. The participants in the procession greeted them with "Happy Easter" and handed out balloons, with the wording "Jesus is Risen", to children of all ages.
Free sausages and drinks were provided as people joined together in games with a giant beach ball; large "snakes-and-ladders" and even an "ecumenical tug-o-war" (as all pulled together!)
"Chelsea" the donkey, which had led the procession, was then used as representing the war hero "Simpson and his donkey" in sacrificing his life for others. Applying this to the Lord Jesus Christ, his death and resurrection, closed the Easter Awakening with the real meaning of Easter.