Hundreds gather for Easter Sunday sunrise service at the beach

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Thousands celebrated Easter at sunrise services this morning across the Cape Fear.

As the sun rise filled the sky at Wrightsville Beach, hundreds came to celebrate Easter Sunday.

“It is the way I would imagine that it was when Jesus rose, although he wasn’t by an ocean, it was just a gorgeous day,” Herald Hendershot said.

This was Hendershot’s second time experiencing a sunrise service on the beach, something he thinks everyone should see for themselves.

“Sunrise Easter services are beautiful services to celebrate the rise of our Lord Jesus Christ and the beautiful day that we have here,” Hendershot said.

Several churches on the island put on the service together and worshiped as one.

“It’s so neat to see everybody come together. All of the different churches, we all have one purpose and one goal and that’s to honor our savior.” Wrightsville Beach Baptist Senior Pastor John McIntyre said.

McIntyre said he hopes this service leaves everyone with a message of hope.
He also said being connected with nature and watching the sun rise is an unforgettable moment.

“The scripture tells us that Mary went to the tomb. The ladies were going to the tomb early in the morning just like this and so, I think it connects emotionally, and mentally and physically. We see the sun rise, you hear the birds. Oh wow, it’s just so nice. It just brings out an emotional experience for all of us,” McIntyre said

During the service there was music and multiple speakers. Several other beaches in our area also had a sunrise service by the ocean.