Hundreds light candles for a local church tradition

JACKSON, Tenn.– Hundreds gathered at a local church to be a part of a holiday tradition.

Every seat was filled at Englewood Baptist Church, and every hand held a candle for Sunday’s candlelight service.

“And it’s just a really special time,” Englewood Baptist Church senior pastor Adam Dooley said.

Dooley said it is a special time to remember what the true meaning of Christmas is with a long lasting tradition.

“It’s an opportunity for our whole church together. We have three campuses, so even though we have multiple candlelight services, we get people from all of our campuses together under one roof,” Dooley said.

They came under one roof to sing, have fellowship and, as Dooley said, to be the light in the darkness.

“Jesus said that he was the light of the world, and not only that, he tells us as believers that we’re to let our light shine as we represent Him,” Dooley said.

“When the lights go down and it’s that single flame, it reminds us how light penetrates the darkness and then as that flame spreads throughout the worship center, it’s a reminder that as God’s people, we really can make a difference,” Dooley said.

Dooley said this is his first candlelight service since taking over as senior pastor in August.