Organizing the Easter Sunrise Service, from left, are CMP’s Ginger Teppenpaw, CMP’s Donnie Longley, Church Minister Dr. Paul Rader, CMP’s manager Judy Atkins and CMP’s William Longley
It’s believed to be the oldest in Hamilton County, the Easter Sunrise Service at Chattanooga Memorial Park, known to most as the Duck Pond.
While the 100 plus acre cemetery hosts the annual event, Northside Presbyterian Church sponsors the non-denominational service. Pastor Dr. Paul Rader said records show right after the church was established in 1886 the Sunrise Service was organized and has run continuous except two years for COVID.
Dr. Rader welcomes everyone to hear the traditional Easter Message of “Hope.” Dr. Rader said soloist Jeremy Bradford will sing an a cappella version of Bill Gaither’s “Because he Lives.”
Dr. Rader said the historic Duck Pond is visited by thousands each year and is a peaceful and fitting place to observe the most important date on the Christian calendar.
The program starts at 7:30 a.m. and coffee and doughnuts will be served.
Chattanooga Funeral Home Vice President Stephen Pike said, “We are delighted Northside Presbyterian uses this location to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ and our staff looks forward to assisting in any way possible."
Chattanooga Funeral Home also hosts an Easter Sunrise Service at Hamilton Memorial Gardens on Highway 153 in Hixson that also begins at 7:30 a.m.