For one night, stress and doubt were traded in for the hope of a new tomorrow.
Multiple community organizations and churches from the area were represented Saturday evening for the Night of Worship held at Covered Bridge Park in downtown Elizabethton.
First unveiled at the Bristol Farmers’ Market months ago, the event is geared to helping those in need while promoting community organization, churches and a sense of togetherness for the area.
As the night went on, hundreds gathered at the park to share their stories and learn more about how to get involved.
“I’d say we’ve already had 500 people show up,” Trampass Hodge, one of the organizer’s for the event, told the Elizabethton Star during the first hour of Night of Worship. “I expect us to get more people coming in as the evening goes on.”
Whether it be for financial assistance or addressing needs of children, different organizations took part during the Carter County Advisory Board’s inaugural try at offering a resource fair. Over 10 churches also participated in the evening’s festivities.
“We didn’t bring the organizations here for any other reason besides lifting them up,” Hodge said. “There are so many different groups that do so much for the community. We’re also blessed to have the support of various churches to make this into a nondenominational event to praise God and be kind to one another.”
Attendees had the opportunity also to hear testimonies from individuals that overcome hard times. One the key reasons for the event, Hodge explained, is to raise awareness of problems going on the in the community.
“Sometimes we lose sight on some of the problems going on,” he said. “You hear some of these testimonies, and you can help but have your heart burden. We just want to offer a helping hand.”
Along with fellowship, free food and refreshments were provided along with music from different Christian performing artists, including Aaron Hagy & Company, Bambi Carter, Tausha Coleman and Curtis Preudhomme.
And the mission provided from the Night of Worship isn’t stopping anytime soon, according to Hodge.
“We’ve already sent memos out to other cities,” he said. “We’re continually looking for organizations to highlight. Our since day one was to make this into an annual event in Elizabethton. We’re excited about coming back here soon and making this an even bigger event for the public.”
Other opportunities are on the horizon, and Hodge encourages groups to join. To learn more about upcoming events associated with Night of Worship, visit the Night of Worship – NOW Facebook page online.