Why on earth would you get up pre-dawn on a Sunday and stand outside in the elements, when the high for the day is only predicted to be a chill 40 degrees?

Because it’s Easter sunrise service, one of the most mystical and touching Christian worship services of the year.

Six Davis Square-area churches are coming together to tell the news that death is vanquished, that new life is coming, to tell the old, old story that Jesus is risen from the dead, and so are we. We’ll sing favorite hymns to guitar, hear inspiring words from student minister Joe Zarro, pray for ourselves, our world, and those we love, be blessed with holy water, and reminded of new beginnings. And watch the sun rise in the East.

The service begins at 6am. Follow the luminaria up the hill to the peak, near the powderhouse. Dress warmly, and casually. Bring kids (they’ll be up anyhow!), bring neighbors and friends. All are welcome.

A free pancake breakfast follows at Community Baptist Church, 31 College Ave. This is also the rain location for the sunrise service.

The churches that welcome you include, but are not limited to:

First Church Somerville UCC

Unity Church of God

Clarendon Hill Presbyterian

Cambridge Welcoming Ministries

Community Baptist

Church of the Nazarene

Notes:

• Translations into sign language or non-English languages will not be available.
• Child care is not available, but children are welcome.