Thousands gather to worship, celebrate Easter atop Stone Mountain

STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Thousands gathered atop Stone Mountain on Sunday morning for the 79th annual Easter Sunrise Service.

This was one of the largest turnouts in recent years, as more than 5,000 attended the annual Easter event with panoramic views and powerful messages.

Roxanne Duncombe attended this sunrise service with her family for the second straight year.

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“It reminds me of the meaning of Easter Sunday,” she said. “I feel a connection with everyone that’s here, and it’s just a great opportunity to worship with others.”

Two services took place within Stone Mountain Park, one at the summit and another at the base on Memorial Lawn.

The park’s gates opened at 3 a.m. while the summit skyride began taking attendees to the top at 4 a.m. Others made the 1.3-mile hike up the mountain in the dark.

Parker Wyatt, Bryant Wright and Crawford Loritts delivered sermons from the top of the mountain.

“This is just a beautiful picture that the gospel continues to reach people of all tribes, tongues, races and communities, Wyatt said. “It’s a bond that’s unstoppable worldwide.”

This annual tradition began in 1944, when Lucille A. Lanford of Stone Mountain First United Methodist Church suggested the youth group climb the mountain to watch the sunrise on Easter morning.

“It’s just evidence that so many people understand the power of the cross,” Wyatt said. “To see the Atlanta area have this type of commitment year after year.”

Park attractions will be open Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for guests.