Each year the Easter Sunrise Service at Beals Point continues to grow in attendance as the community tradition takes place on the shore of Folsom Lake.
This Sunday, that trend in growth continued for another year as several hundred residents of Folsom, Granite Bay and other nearby communities turned out for the event.
Celebrating its 62nd year, this annual non-denominational service is organized by multiple generations of the Williams Family, whom are a known for their love of community in Folsom, a city they have called their home since the 1960’s.
When Sharon Williams and her late husband “Digger,” first moved to the area they began attending the service that was organized by an area church. When the church stopped doing the lakeside service one year, the family felt it was important for the community so they took it upon themselves to continue it on.
That commitment many years ago continues to be appreciated by the community, just judging from the many that return year after year for it, along with many new faces each year who learn of it and partake in the celebration.
Such was the case Sunday, as early as 5:30 a.m. visitors began arriving to the parking area at Beals Point, bundled up to fend off the morning chill and equipped with their lawn chairs and blankets.
As they arrived, attendees of all ages, assembled on the lawn area, surrounding the illuminated cross that stood before a background of the horizon and the waters of Folsom Lake, producing a beautiful scene that always has attendees capturing photos of as the service begins just as the sun creeps up over the horizon, bringing a glimmer to the water.
Sunday’s service opened with music performed by the members of the Williams Family followed by a welcome message, prayer and a scripture reading by carious generations of the family. Pastor Nancy Atchley of Powerhouse Ministries in Folsom presented the message, which was followed by additional worship and communion.
As the service concluded, the lawn area arose in applause by those in attendance, many of which stuck around thereafter to visit with fellow community members and assist the organizers in packing up following the service.
For those who were unable to attend this local tradition this year, we have included he entire service in video form with this article, with permission from the Williams Family. We wish everyone a wonderful Easter holiday.