The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a beloved annual event that brings the community together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This ecumenical service, held at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand and the Laurel Street Pavilion, is a cherished tradition that has been a part of the Rehoboth Beach community for decades.
What is the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service?
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a community-wide event that takes place on Easter Sunday morning. The service is organized by the Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Churches (LRAC), a group of 12 Christian congregations and one associate member, the Seaside Jewish Community.
When and Where is the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service Held?
The main Easter Sunrise Service is held at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, with the service typically starting at 6:00 am. Pre-service music begins at 5:40 am to set the tone for the worship service.
In addition to the Bandstand service, New Covenant Presbyterian Church also hosts an Easter sunrise service at the Laurel Street pavilion on the boardwalk, starting at 6:00 am.
Who Participates in the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service?
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a collaborative effort, with participation from various churches in the Lewes-Rehoboth area. Some of the participating churches include:
- Bethel United Methodist Church
- Epworth United Methodist Church
- Faith & Israel United Methodist Churches
- Westminster Presbyterian Church
- New Covenant Presbyterian Church
What Happens During the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service?
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service features a variety of elements that come together to create a meaningful and uplifting experience for attendees.
Preaching
The service includes preaching by various pastors from the participating churches. In 2022, for example, Rev. Marjorie Belmont-Burns delivered the sermon at the Bandstand service.
Music
The service features music led by local musicians and praise teams. In 2022, Steve Johnson from Westminster Presbyterian Church led the Sonrise Praise Team, and Bill Martin from Epworth UMC led the pre-worship music.
Community Involvement
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a true community event, with over 100 volunteers from the LRAC member churches supporting various ministry partners serving the local community. The LRAC also grants funds to these ministry partners, which include organizations that support vulnerable neighbors in the Cape Henlopen School District.
Why is the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service Important?
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is an important event for the local community for several reasons:
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Spiritual Significance: The service provides an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of the Christian faith.
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Community Togetherness: The service brings people from different churches and backgrounds together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose within the Rehoboth Beach community.
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Outreach and Giving: The service’s connection to local ministry partners and their efforts to support vulnerable neighbors demonstrates the community’s commitment to serving those in need.
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Tradition and Legacy: The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service has been a part of the community for decades, and it continues to be a cherished tradition that is passed down from generation to generation.
Conclusion
The Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a truly special event that brings the community together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and to support one another. Whether you are a long-time resident or a visitor to the area, the Rehoboth Beach Sunrise Easter Service is a must-attend event that will leave you feeling inspired and connected to the community.
References:
- https://www.capegazette.com/article/easter-sunday-sunrise-service-lewes-beach-630-am/100326
- https://www.cityofrehoboth.com/events/general/easter-sunrise-service
- https://epworth.faith/easter-sonrise-service/
- https://www.cityofrehoboth.com/events/easter-ecumenical-sunrise-service
- https://www.cityofrehoboth.com/events/easter-sunrise-service-laurel-street-1