Congregants at Grace Chapel Baptist Church in Paterson gathered for Easter Sunday for the first time in two years. 

The church closed for in-person services for two years because of COVID-19.

The church also had plans to do some renovations, which ended up costing them money and time.

Councilman Michael Jackson says a contractor allegedly took almost $200,000 of church funds that were supposed to go toward a new entrance, accessible bathrooms, and offices.

Jackson – along with the community, church members and local businesses – worked together to finally get the church renovated and reopened just in time for Easter. 

"It's extra special because of Christ's resurrection…But then the cherry on top is that we are coming back together for the first time in two years. It's really, really special for us today,” says Pastor Gregory Wilson.

There are still some final touches to be done. The pastor says he hopes to have everything finished within a few weeks.