WILMINGTON -- People from around North Carolina joined together Sunday at the annual sunrise beach service at Wrightsville Beach.

Wrightsville Beach Baptist Church was just one of four churches preaching a message of hope and inspiration. Folks were on the strand at 6 a.m. and bundled up for the chilly morning.

One woman from Duplin County said for her family, it’s all about togetherness and celebrating Jesus Christ.

“Easter is so important because God died for our sins. Then He got up to let us know that we could live because He lives. And He lives within us,” said Judy Carroll.

More than 1,500 people attended this year's sunrise Easter service.