Kevin Jones
CNHI
JACKSONVILLE —
On Easter Sunday, April 4, a 7 a.m. sunrise service will be held atop the rest area of Love’s Lookout. A message by R.G. Erickson of First Christian Church will be heard.
“The sunrise service is in commemoration of the resurrection of Christ,” said Rev. Enid Shepard, retired First United Methodist Chruch pastor. “We do it to celebrate joy and in the setting of the rising sun, it is really inspirational and it shows discipline on the part of followers of Christ.”
Organizers of this event invite everyone to come and enjoy the service, “rain or shine.”
Participants are encouraged to dress warmly and bring along their favorite lawn chair.
“As followers of Christ, knowing all that he did for us, why would we not sacrifice a little sleep?” Rev. Shepard said. “When we think about Christ’s offering on the cross, why wouldn’t we run to the sunrise?”
In the week leading up to the Sunrise Service, Holy Week noon services will be held March 29 - April 1.
The services will be Hosted by First United Methodist Church, located on loop 323 next to Autry Funeral Home.
Services will be presided over by the Rev. Joel McMahon.
The community is encouraged to come enjoy the message and have lunch during the 12:05-1 p.m. lunch hour, and those who must return to work early will be ushered ahead in line.
Donations will be welcome, and proceeds will be given to HOPE.
The services will include singing, special music, prayer and a brief message.
Messages will be delivered by Father Mark Kusmeirk, from Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, on Monday; the Rev. Enid Shepard, retired First United Methodist Chruch pastor, Tuesday; the Rev. Zetra Hill, from Zion Hill Baptist Church, on Wednesday; and Dr. Darin Wood, pastor of Central Baptist Chruch on Thursday.
For more information, call the Rev. Enid Shepard at 903-589-0521.
