Planning the Easter Sunrise Service At Hamilton Memorial Gardens from left to right, Steve Burchard, cemetery superintendent, Stephen Pike, Chattanooga Funeral Home vice president, Dr. David McNabb, Teen Challenge president and CEO and soloist, Fred Guilbert
Easter sunrise services return to Chattanooga Memorial Park and Hamilton Memorial Gardens after a two-year hiatus because of COVID 19. Chattanooga Funeral Home Vice President Stephen Pike said the annual tradition can be done safely and he encourages everyone to attend.
The Northside Presbyterian Church conducts the service at Chattanooga Memorial Park by the Duck Pond on Memorial Drive just three short blocks off Dayton Blvd at White Oak.
The cemetery is over 125 years old and the duck pond is at the entrance. Northside Presbyterian Church Pastor Dr. Paul Rader is in charge of the service. Dr. Rader said, “This is one of the oldest if not the longest running Easter Sunrise service in the Chattanooga Area.”
Teen Challenge President and C.E.O Dr. David McNabb will officiate at the Hamilton Memorial Gardens service. Fred Guilbert is the featured soloist. The service will take place in the “Good Shepherd section” facing the Three Crosses. The Crosses were recently replaced. Mr. Pike said it has long been his desire to have an Easter Sunrise Service near the Crosses. Mr. Pike said guests enter at the main cemetery gate and follow the guides. Hamilton Memorial Gardens opened in 1954.
Both services will feature the inspiring music of Resurrection Sunday.
Mr. Pike said there will be doves released at both services. Mr. Pike said releasing the doves symbolizes love, peace and hope for the future.
Mr. Pike said there will be free refreshments and each program will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the meaning of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter Sunday is April 17.