by Alex Wellman The recession and global financial meltdown have left many without hope with but one priest has called on residents to use Easter as the perfect boost. Rev Michael Moorhead, All Souls Church, Station Road, Harlesden, told

by Alex Wellman

The recession and global financial meltdown have left many without hope with but one priest has called on residents to use Easter as the perfect boost.

Rev Michael Moorhead, All Souls Church, Station Road, Harlesden, told the Times that the religious holiday was the perfect example of how to make the best out of a bad situation.

The priest, who has been running Easter services at the church since Sunday April 5, called on people to become part of their community and join in the religious celebration.

Rev Moorhead said: "In times of trouble and turmoil like these, the story of Easter shows that what happened on Good Friday, devastating though it was, can be turned into something wonderful.

"We are shown at Easter that God draws out the unexpected from disasters. It's a hopeful message and one that people in Brent can use at this traumatic time."

Easter is the most sacred holiday in the Christian calendar and marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ following his death on Good Friday.

Rev Moorhead said: "The story of Easter speaks of God's action on our lives and in particular in the worst moments of our life and how he is able to turn sorrow into joy."

The church will be holding a service on Good Friday and Easter Sunday at 11am and all are welcome.

St Mary's in Neasden Lane, Willesden, is calling on volunteers to bring an extra sheen to their Easter celebrations with elbow grease.

The church needs people to make the building spick and span after service on Saturday April 11 in time for the festivities the following day.

The decoration and touch-up takes place in the church following Morning Prayer which takes place at 9.30am.

St Mary's is also hosting an Easter party which will take place in the parish centre on Saturday April 18 and costs �5.

The recently renovated and refitted Willesden New Testament Church of God in Willesden High Road is also opening its doors during the festive break.

All are welcome to a special service at the new premises on Easter Sunday from 11am with lively music.

alex.wellman@archant.co.uk