Easter sunrise service returns to Fort Myers Beach

For the first time in two years, the Easter sunrise service at Fort Myers Beach returned on Sunday.

Hundreds of people showed up on this special day to honor the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Sunday service brought between 800 to 1,000 people to the beach for the Easter sunrise service in past years.

Six different churches with the Fort Myers Beach Ministerial Association joined together at Lynn Hall Memorial Park after the easter service was canceled the past two years due to COVID-19. The pandemic motivated churches to add a virtual option.

The interim pastor at the Chapel by the Sea Presbyterian Church, Reverend James Berger, said this has allowed him to reach more people.

On Sunday, he was happy to join the community for a day that he says will bring hope and peace to the Christian community.

“Easter, you know, is the central event of Christianity, and the resurrection of Jesus and his life everlasting, that he brings us. So it’s a real pleasure to be together with all these people who are celebrating and rejoicing and singing together, hearing the story. And remembering again, that in Jesus Christ, we have life eternal,” said Reverend Berger.

People who attended said the service was filled with music, prayers and peace

“It’s lovely out here this morning so peaceful so beautiful and a great message, great message on Easter morning and celebrate it out here in the nature and God’s beautiful gift he gives us,” said Glenn Detlefsen.

WINK News spoke to the first couple on the beach they got here early to make sure they could get a front-row spot.

“I always love the music. I find it sporting and the scripture is beautiful also to remind us why we’re here and what Easter is all about,” said Mary Berzak.

The couple said they will be back next year.