SPENCER – Explore history and enjoy music while taking in a variety of Christmas décor Friday during the 6th annual Candlelight Tour of Churches.
The free event kicks off at 6 p.m. at Central United Methodist and wraps up with refreshments at First Baptist around 8:30 p.m.
“It’s really fantastic,” said Beth Nance, a member of the Spencer Hometown Holidays Committee, which sponsors the tour in conjunction with the Spencer Council of Churches. “I’m pretty sure we are the only town in the state of North Carolina that does a candlelight church tour at Christmas.”
The self-guided tour allows people a chance to see six historic churches. Members at each church will put on a short program with performances ranging from hand bell music to liturgical dance.
Organizer Alice Suber said pastors from each church will greet visitors and provide information about the history of their church.
Nance said the historic aspect draws many people to the community for the tour.
“We’ve had people come from Concord, Lexington and Troutman,” she said. “They just don’t make churches like they used to.”
The churches on the tour are all part of the Spencer Council of Churches.
“We have collectively joined forces in order to help and support the Spencer community and bring the good news of Jesus to others,” Suber said. “Since we consist of five different denominations, there is plenty of diversity within our group.
“Allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us, our diversities have melted together and become a huge asset.”
The Candlelight Tour of Churches is an example of how the churches have created a unique tradition by working together.
“Each church brings its own uniqueness; nobody is in competition. “Everyone seems to thoroughly enjoy it.”
“It’s a really nice event that leaves people feeling calm.”