WALNUT COVE, N.C. -- A small Stokes County Christian Church based out of a historic home said it planned to celebrate Hanukkah this year, like every year.
- Parishioners say they celebrate Hanukkah because Jesus celebrated
- New members say they're excited to learn about the holiday
- Leaders say the church works to be respectful of the Jewish faith
"Jesus celebrated Hanukkah, and we know that he was Jewish, so why wouldn't we want to celebrate this and follow after what our Messiah did?" Chelsea Evans, daughter of the pastor at Times Refreshing Ministry said.
She said Hanukkah is a special time of year.
"This is a time of miracles. It's a time of hope. It's a time of light. People are looking for hope," Evans said.
One new member of the church said she is excited to celebrate Hanukkah for the first time.
"Christians don't typically celebrate Hanukkah. For that reason, I don't have a lot of knowledge about Hanukkah, so to me it's an opportunity to learn about something else," Valerie Dixon said.
Dixon said it is all about love and understanding.
Evans said the church works to be respectful of the Jewish faith. She said the church enjoys the fellowship of Hanukkah.
"We don't want to take anything away from the Jews. We don't have to celebrate Hanukkah, but we get to. I think people are more open to that," she said.