Worshippers Mark Easter Morning With Sunrise Service At Guthrie Green

Dozens of churchgoers got up early this morning for a special sunrise service in downtown Tulsa.

The First United Methodist Church held its annual sunrise service on Sunday, but for the first time it was held at Guthrie Green.

The Dwyer family was among the first to arrive, and they even brought along their dog, Silly.

"We're just excited to be able to be out here and be praying with people," Brenda Dwyer said.

A growing crowd soon joined with lawn chairs of their own to celebrate Easter on the Guthrie Green.

"There's just something about being outside on Easter morning that just makes it all the more special," minister Peter White said.

White says the church typically holds a sunrise service on Easter, but this year they wanted to change things up a bit.

"It's Easter morning, and we want to celebrate first thing," White said. "We're a downtown church, and so we want to be a part of downtown and what better place than Guthrie Green where there's been so much life here lately."

White's message to his congregation was that Easter is a time to celebrate new life, new beginnings.

The Dwyers say there's no better way to do that than as the sun rises, surrounded by friends.

"Jesus was resurrected on Easter and so new life begins as the new day begins here today," 17-year-old Amber Dwyer said. "I think that's really cool."

White says the turnout for the morning service went beyond what was expected and the church would like to make it an annual tradition.