Jason Sandford
Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
from Blue Ridge Now:
CHIMNEY ROCK — An Easter tradition is set to take place this Sunday as Chimney Rock Park prepares for its annual Easter Sunrise Service.
For many people, it’s not Easter Sunday until they have witnessed the spectacular sight of the sun rising over Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The park has opened its gates to the community for the past 53 years for a non-denominational worship service filled with scripture and music.
This year’s service takes place Sunday beneath the 535-million year old Chimney Rock, the monolith for which the park is named. Park gates will be open from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. for the 7 a.m. service.
There is no admission charge and guests are welcome to stay and enjoy the park for the day.
What began as a small community gathering of residents and local pastors coming together to celebrate the glory of Easter has turned into a huge event, drawing people from near and far, said Chimney Rock Park General Manager Mary Jaeger-Gale.
“The Easter Sunrise Service is truly a community event,” she said. “The churches in Hickory Nut Gorge, in partnership with the park, have collaborated for decades to host for this very special holiday service. It is one of the few times each year that residents and guests can see the sun rise over Lake Lure from high atop Chimney Rock Mountain. It has become a tradition for many families in the area.”
In recent years, the ceremony has grown to more than 1,000 people from around the Southeast. Organized by ministers from area churches, the service includes scripture readings, prayer and music by the Park’s featured entertainer, hammered dulcimer player John Mason.
The service will be broadcast on 1450 WHKP-AM Radio for those unable to attend. In case of rain, the service will be held on the Park Meadows.
Those interested in attending should arrive early since space is limited, Jaeger-Gale said. Spectators should dress warmly and bring a flashlight.
