It was an egg-citing morning Saturday, March 27, at Oliver Park when Calera First United Methodist held its ninth-annual Community Easter Egg Hunt.

The Easter Bunny made a special appearance for pictures and passed out goodies to everyone.

Boys and girls — 112 in all — registered to gather 3,000 candy-filled, plastic eggs covering the park grounds.

They were also registered for a chance to win one of two brand-new, gleaming bicycles on display.

Prior to the hunt they decorated color-card eggs, got tattooed, jumped in a bounce castle and had a blast on a giant inflatable slide.

After a short prayer, the children separated into three age groups. Pastor Terry Hill commenced the start and the children sprang into action as their parents egged them on. Within 10 minutes, all the eggs were nestled in Easter baskets.

Two prize eggs for each group contained an olive wood cross. Winners received an Easter basket stuffed with toys and candy.

Everyone had a great time and no one left empty handed. Following the hunt, children and parents received a free drink and sack lunch.

It was a festive atmosphere, exactly what Kellie Carlee, coordinator of the event, hoped it would be.

“Churches need to come out into the community,” Carlee said. “The Easter Egg Hunt is one of several outreach methods Calera First uses to reach the community.”

Pastor Hill believes the gospel message does not change, but the method of communication must be relational and relevant.

Each Tuesday night in June, they host the annual Family Fun Night at Oliver Park. It is a chance for people in the community to fellowship together through entertainment and free food.

Vacation Bible School will be held at the church July 14-18. Melinda Gibson, coordinator, said children ages 3-years-old through fifth grade will take a voyage on the high seas this year.

Calera First offers Sunday worship at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Sunday school starts at 9:50 a.m.

Wednesday nights start with a fellowship meal at 6 p.m. and Bible study for children and youth starts at 6:30 p.m.; adults 6:45 p.m.

For more information about Calera First, visit their Web site Caleraumc.com, or call the church office at 668-0951.

Mollie Brown is the new community columnist for Calera. She can be reached at dmjhb1@bellsouth.net.