Easter Sunrise Service Held on Torrance Beach

First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach hosts annual celebration of resurrection and renewal.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:05pm

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Hundreds of worshipers gathered on Torrance Beach in the early morning hours of Easter Sunday for a special sunrise service and meditation led by the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach. The service, titled 'Easter: the Mystery and the Promise,' celebrated the miracle and ongoing hope of the resurrection.

Why it matters

The annual Easter sunrise service on Torrance Beach is a longstanding tradition that brings the local community together to mark the holiest day in the Christian calendar. The service reflects the church's commitment to making its spiritual teachings accessible and relevant to people of all backgrounds.

The details

The service was led by First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank, who spoke about how Jesus 'broke through all our rules' with his resurrection, offering a 'new rule: the rule of love and resurrection.' Worshipers gathered on the sand to participate in the meditation and service, which included readings, prayers, and hymns.

  • The Easter sunrise service took place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The players

First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach

A local Christian congregation that has hosted the annual Easter sunrise service on Torrance Beach for many years.

Dottie Escobedo-Frank

The bishop of the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, who led the Easter sunrise service and meditation.

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What they’re saying

“We remember the miracle, the surprise, the audacity that a human/divine form could breathe, walk, and be present again.”

— Dottie Escobedo-Frank, Bishop, First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach

“Jesus broke through all our rules: the rules of religion, the rules of physics and biology, the rules of social norms. And he gave us a new rule: the rule of love and resurrection. Love that is consistent and eternal. Resurrection that is ongoing and forever hopeful. This is who we are; an Easter people who know both death and life after death.”

— Dottie Escobedo-Frank, Bishop, First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach

The takeaway

The Easter sunrise service on Torrance Beach is a cherished tradition that brings the local community together to celebrate the timeless message of resurrection, renewal, and hope that lies at the heart of the Christian faith.