ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Kiwanis of Anna Maria Island invites all to experience the 55th Annual Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 21 at 6:30 a.m. at Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive.
The service is uplifting and ecumenical, with all invited to join in singing inspirational Easter music, and all the Island churches participating.
Father Matthew Grunfeld of Episcopal Church of the Annunciation will deliver the opening prayer. Rev. Edward Moss of CrossPointe Fellowship and Rev. Douglas Kings of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will deliver scriptures. Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keefe of Roser Church will deliver the sermon. Matthew Nowicki, Director of Faith Formation at St. Bernard Catholic Church will deliver the offering prayer. Rev. Stephen King of Harvey Memorial will deliver the benediction.
The crowd normally numbers between 1,200 and 2,000 people. There is ample parking, and the Island Trolley will be up and running at 6 a.m. The Anna Maria Beach Café also will open at 6 a.m. to serve coffee. Bring chairs or a blanket to sit on and dress for the weather.
The offertory collection will be divided among the participating churches and the Kiwanis Club for its State College of Florida Key Club Scholarship program.