For nearly 60 years, the Hampton Roads community has gathered alongside its military brethren to greet the Easter sun as it rises over the Chesapeake Bay.

In the spirit of shared fellowship, that custom continues at 6:30 a.m. on April 4 at Continental Park, on Fort Monroe.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to see the sun rise … and the Son rise!” said Fort Monroe Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Juan Crockett.

“This is one of the most awe-inspiring traditions we observe here at Fort Monroe. God is present. God seeks us and loves us. It’s hard not to feel encouraged and enthusiastic when you’re surrounded by His love and the love of this vibrant community. All are welcome,” Crockett said.

This year’s featured speaker is U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains, (Maj. Gen.) Douglas L. Carver, who will address the theme, “Because He Lives.”

A native of Rome, Ga., Carver has served as chief of chaplains since 2007. He holds a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, a Masters of Divinity from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the Army War College in Carlisle, Penn. An ordained Southern Baptist minister, he has pastored churches in Kentucky, Colorado and Virginia.

He received his commission as a field artillery officer in 1973. After serving on active duty for six years, he resigned to enter the ministry. He was commissioned an Army chaplain upon his return in 1984.

The Sunrise Service will also feature performances by the Chapel Center’s Easter Sunrise Festival Choir and the TRADOC Band’s brass ensemble.

Band Executive Officer and Associate Conductor, Lt. Richard Winkels, said band members look forward to the Easter Sunrise event each year.

“It’s always a pleasure for the TRADOC Band to support the Fort Monroe community.

“The setting, the view and the community involvement all combine to make this an event to remember.”

Continental Park is located at the corner of Fenwick and Ingalls Roads. The event is free and open to the public. Visitors are reminded that to access Fort Monroe, they must present proof of valid vehicle registration and insurance. Guests ages 18 and older also must present a valid form of government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license.

In the event of inclement weather, the service will be moved to the Post Theater, located in Building 42 on Tidball Road. For more information, call the Fort Monroe Religious Support Office at 788-2611.

Anyone requiring special accommodations should contact the Fort Monroe Equal Opportunity Office at 788-3500.