Local Church to Host Festival of Lights on Dec. 23

By Sinita Tatum

Raider Shakedown Reporter

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The date for the fifth annual “Festival of Lights” hosted by Greater Love Kingdom Building Church has been confirmed for 6 p.m. on Dec. 23.

The “Festival of Lights” is a community fellowship program that promotes the celebration of Christmas through thousands of lights, entertainment and gift giving. It is a free event open to the public.  The Greater Love Kingdom Building Church is located at 1264 Third Ave. S. in Nashville.

“Every year, our goal is to make sure everyone leaves with a smile on their face, joy in their heart, and a gift in hand,” said “Festival of Lights” Co-Founder and Minister of Music Chris Tatum.

Tatum and his wife/co-founder, Linda, both 53, moved to Nashville from Saginaw, Mich., in 2000.  In December 2007, the Tatum’s, along with approximately 50 other volunteers from their church and community, produced the first annual “Festival of Lights” at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, located on 5800 Buena Vista Pike.

In 2011, the “Festival of Lights” was moved to the Tatum’s new church home, Greater Love Kingdom Building Church, under the leadership of Pastor Anthony Waggoner. 

Preparation for the festival begins in October of each year.  The “Festival of Lights” requires a production team of approximately 100 people to operate through its numerous rehearsals and final show, including dancers, puppeteers, choir members, stage hands, and many other volunteer positions. 

 Tatum said the audience count rises each year, and he anticipates hosting close to 250 people during this year’s festival.

“It warmed my heart to see smiles on babies’ faces, and the grown people too, when they walked into the sanctuary to see the spectacular light show!” Waggoner said. 

With more than 10,000 lights brightening the 2,500-square-foot sanctuary, preparation is no easy task.  It takes the production team more than 30 volunteer hours to sort, inspect, and hang the lights. 

Puppeteers, along with Greater Love’s Mass Choir, praise dance team, guest singers, musicians, and actors provide entertainment for the evening.

Numerous door prizes will be raffled off throughout the program.  The main prize is a Christmas dinner donated to a family in need.  All gifts are donated by church members, community, family, and friends. 

Middle Tennesseans who are looking for something positive and uplifting to do with their families during the holiday season are encouraged to visit Greater Love Kingdom Building Church for the event.

“All that you are required to do is to sit back, enjoy the show, and allow your problems and worries to escape you, if just for that moment in time,” said Mrs. Tatum.

###