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Cypress Today
By the People, for the People
Joyous Easter Sunrise Service Held at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills
Annual tradition brings community together to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ
Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:48pm
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Hundreds of attendees gathered at the Court of Liberty in Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills on a chilly Sunday morning for the annual Easter Sunrise Service. The service featured a choral prelude, prayers, scripture readings, an uplifting sermon by Reverend Ruby Varghese, and two participatory songs led by the City of Angels Community Choir. The hour-long celebration concluded with a benediction, choral blessing, and the release of doves.
Why it matters
The Easter Sunrise Service at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills is a longstanding tradition dating back to 1924, when the first such service was held at the Glendale location. These annual events bring the local community together to celebrate the Christian holiday of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, providing a meaningful spiritual experience for attendees.
The details
The service began with a choral prelude performed by the City of Angels Community Choir, followed by prayers, scripture readings, and a sermon by Reverend Ruby Varghese titled 'Let It Rise.' Attendees were invited to participate in two joyful songs led by the choir. The service concluded with a benediction, choral blessing, and the release of doves.
- The Easter Sunrise Service took place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
- Sunrise was at 6:34 a.m. that morning.
The players
Reverend Ruby Varghese
The reverend who delivered the sermon at the Easter Sunrise Service.
Richard Medrano
The conductor who led the City of Angels Community Choir during the service.
Vicky Franco
The vice president at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills who gave welcoming and closing remarks.
City of Angels Community Choir
The choral group that performed during the Easter Sunrise Service.
Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks and Mortuaries
The organization that has hosted the annual Easter Sunrise Service at its various locations since at least 1981.
What they’re saying
“as the resurrection of Jesus assures us of the hope we have that death does not have the final say; we can live with hope that Jesus' loving presence will carry us through the joys and sorrows inherent in life”
— Nicole McClurg, clergy services and grief support director for Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks and Mortuaries
The takeaway
The Easter Sunrise Service at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills is a cherished annual tradition that brings the local community together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the hope it represents. The service's blend of music, prayer, and inspiring messages provides a meaningful spiritual experience for attendees, reinforcing the enduring significance of this Christian holiday.
