About 2,000 worshippers gather at Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, April 5 for a non-denominational Easter sunrise service. The 51st annual event was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island. Islander Photos: Kristin Swain
A white cross stands over the platform set up for island clergy members April 5 — an alter facing the Gulf of Mexico at the the Kiwanis Easter sunrise service at the Manatee Public Beach.
Clergy members from the six island churches, including the Reverends Dr. Bob O’Keefe, Ed Moss, Deacon Bill Diaz, Rosemary Backer and Stephen King join Kiwanis president Dave Miner in singing “Because He Lives” April 5 to close the Easter sunrise service. The Rev. Dee Ann Montmillin had left the stage.
Don Donahue of St. Bernard’ Catholic Church plays keyboard and sings an offertory hymn during the April 5 Easter sunrise service.
The Rev. Rosemary Backer of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church delivers the sermon, “Early in the Morning,” April 5 during the Kiwanis Club Easter sunrise service on the beach.
Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island members collect the offering April 5 during the Easter sunrise service. The collection of approximately $7,000 was split among the island churches.
About 2,000 worshippers stand for the benediction, provided by the Rev. Dr. Bob O’Keefe of Roser Memorial Community Church, and to sing “Because He Lives” April 5, closing the 51st annual Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Easter sunrise service.