Virginia church reaches out to … Darth Vader?

Darth Vader waves as he walks by the West Broad Church of Christ in Richmond, Va., during the annual Dominion Christmas Parade. (Photo via www.wbchurchofchrist.org)

As the annual Dominion Christmas Parade passed by the West Broad Church of Christ in Richmond, Va., the church opened its doors “to provide warmth, restrooms, hot cocoa and cool hospitality to spectators,” church members reported.
“Seventy-nine folks passed through in under two hours,” according to the congregation’s website, “and we were privileged to enjoy pleasant conversations and bright, appreciative smiles.
“A parade, people, goodwill and holiday cheer — is that a winning combination, or what?”

James L. Nesmith

Check out the church’s photo gallery of parade participants. You’ll notice that the parade had an entire Imperial legion from the “Star Wars” movies, including Stormtroopers, Biker Scouts, Boba Fett and Darth Vader himself.
(No word on whether or not the Dark Lord of the Sith came in for hot cocoa.)
The West Broad church’s website details the history of the congregation. The church was established in 1999 as a domestic mission of the Collegeside Church of Christ in Cookeville, Tenn. It is the only Church of Christ in downtown Richmond.
The church started with six attendees — James and Seline Nesmith and their four children. The church has baptized about 100 people and now has an attendance of 124. James Nesmith continues to serve as the congregation’s minister.

• Feedback
  I was pleasantly surprised to see this article in the Chronicle. We did not submit it, and I actually learned of it through a Facebook post. We certainly do thank the Christian Chronicle for the great work it does in informing the brotherhood of church matters, and thanks so much for this special “shout out” regarding our efforts for Jesus in downtown Richmond! Take care, and God bless.
  James Nesmith
  West Broad Church of Christ

  James Nesmith

  December, 7 2010

  So glad that the West Broad Church of Christ is getting that kind of good press. Keep up the good work. Mark Smith

  Mark Smith

  December, 8 2010

  James, happy to hear of your love of your neighbors for Christ!

  Bruce

  December, 11 2010

  Thanks for the article. It is good to see small churches growing and to learn what they are doing to accomplish this.

  Wes Dawson

  December, 11 2010