A Special Sunrise Resurrection Sunday
A slow stream of headlights wound its way up the mist-covered hill overlooking Durbanville in the pre-dawn dark. It was an early start for those who came to celebrate the Resurrection together—members of ESCC and Community Family Church gathered at 360 Bloemendal on Sunday, 20 April, for a joint sunrise service.
A welcoming team from CFC had set up a tea and coffee station to help keep people warm in the chilly morning air. ESCC Children’s Church also had hot chocolate and muffins ready to warm little hands and fill hungry tummies.
Worship music drifted across the grassy slope where families, friends, and visitors found a spot to settle. As the mist thinned and the sky lightened to soft greys and blues, Chris Mengel shared a heartfelt message—one that stirred hearts and pointed minds to the empty tomb and the hope it holds.
After the service, conversations and laughter rose as people tucked into pre-packed breakfast picnics, connecting with friends and making new ones. And then, as if on cue, a rainbow stretched across the misty sky—heaven’s own reminder of God’s faithfulness and promises.
Matthew 28:1-7
Jesus Has Risen
28 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
