By By JAMES COLLINS / Niles Daily Star
NILES -- With Easter Sunday this weekend, Niles Christians will pay special remembrance to the reason why they are Christians in the first place.
It is Christian belief that Jesus Christ was crucified for the sins of all people on Good Friday and then rose from the dead on Resurrection Sunday, or Easter as it has come to be known.
Pastor Jeff Whitaker of Michiana Christian Embassy, 1922 E. Main St. in Niles, said Christians celebrate Easter because it is the time when God became man and demonstrated the power of hope and life by rising from the dead.
Local Christian leaders agree that Easter is the most special time of the year for Christian churches.
Bassett said Christians were brought closer to God because of the resurrection.
Kevin Greenlee, minister at First Church of Christ, 2240 Yankee St. in Niles, said Resurrection Sunday is so meaningful because it gives Christians the belief in eternal life.
While Easter Sunday may be the day when special attention is paid to Jesus Christ's resurrection, the Christian leaders all agreed it is a day that Christians should always keep in mind.