On Easter Sunday, American Idol turned primetime into praise time as the show aired its first-ever extended “Songs of Faith” episode — and faith wasn’t just in the lyrics; it was at the heart of every performance.

The three-hour live special, which aired April 20 on ABC, brought an unmistakable spirit of worship to the stage as this season’s Top 20 contestants performed powerful gospel and faith-based songs in front of a live audience. For a show known for launching superstar careers, this episode also boldly spotlighted the power of Jesus and the hope of the resurrection — fitting for an Easter celebration.

Among the most soul-stirring performances of the night was judge Carrie Underwood’s rendition of “How Great Thou Art,” a hymn she’s famously performed in the past, now brought full circle on the very stage where her journey began nearly 20 years ago.

Christian artists CeCe Winans and Brandon Lake were featured guests for the Easter special. Winans teamed up with former contestant Roman Collins for a breathtaking version of “Come Jesus Come,” while Lake joined Jelly Roll for a moving performance of their hit “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” Lake, who said he had always been afraid to audition for Idol, expressed how much it meant to be part of the night.

“I’ve been waiting for this day,” he told the judges. “I can’t tell you how nerve-wracking it is to be in front of your, like, heroes. It’s absolutely insane.”

Lake also revealed he’ll be releasing a new album, King of Hearts, in June.

Country star and judge Luke Bryan brought his faith to the stage with a performance of “Jesus Bout My Kids,” and Lionel Richie led the Top 24 contestants in a group rendition of “Eternity.” The young talents themselves continued the theme of the night, with 17-year-old Canaan James Hill — an aspiring preacher — delivering a passionate version of “Better Days” by Le’Andria Johnson and contestant Kolbi Jordan singing a heartfelt “Amazing Grace.”

Several of this season’s hopefuls, including Hill, Baylee Littrell, and Breanna Nix, have openly shared their Christian faith throughout the competition, something Bryan says is more visible this year than ever before. He credited Underwood’s influence for helping shift the culture behind the scenes.

“She’s never shied away from her spirituality and Christian beliefs,” Bryan told Billboard. “And the kids this year have showed up with more of that maybe than in years past. That’s been really, really special to watch.”

American Idol co-creator Simon Lythgoe also praised the decision to dedicate such a significant episode to worship and Easter.

“I’m genuinely excited to see Jesus’ resurrection day honored on one of the biggest entertainment platforms in the world,” he said, noting that in earlier seasons, there was “an unspoken rule” to avoid anything overtly religious.

That tide appears to have turned — and in a big way.

On a day meant to celebrate Christ’s resurrection, American Idol didn’t shy away from lifting up His name. Instead, it opened the doors to millions of viewers and invited them into an evening of worship, praise, and testimony — reminding us all that even in Hollywood, Jesus still reigns.