(March 24, 2015)

Centenary partners with UMC for Easter Sunrise Service

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College of Louisiana and the local district of the United Methodist Church are partnering this spring to offer a special Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 5, at 6 a.m. in the Hargrove Memorial Band Shell at Centenary. The program, principally designed by Centenary Choir's founding director, Dr. A.C. "Cheesy" Voran, will incorporate stirring Holy Week anthems, dramatic readings, and a moving performance of the Passion and Resurrection stories.

"The service has a long tradition dating back to the 1950s, principally held at Hodges Gardens. We are proud to begin the tradition anew here on campus, in our hometown," said Centenary Choir Director and Director of Music Ministries at First United Methodist Church of Shreveport Dr. David Hobson. "Truthfully, it's one of the most meaningful events we offer, embraced by both singer and congregant alike. My students particularly are very attached to the music of the service, which of course augments and reflects on the central story of the Christian faith."

Service participants will include the Centenary College Choir and alumni; local church choir members; and College staff, faculty, and friends; all under the direction of Hobson.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for people of faith in the community to come together and celebrate Easter," said United Methodist District Superintendant Reverend Ken Irby. "The service begins in near darkness and concludes with the joyous strains of hallelujahs greeting the light of this holy day."

Guests are encouraged to arrive early for parking purposes. In case of rain, the service will be held in Brown Chapel. For more information or to participate in the choir, please contact the Centenary Hurley School of Music Office at 318.869.5235 or the United Methodist District Office at 318.869.5729.