BLYTHEWOOD – It was a Night of Hope for more than 2,000 worshippers gathered in Doko Park last week to participate in an old fashioned outdoor revival organized by Blythewood’s VillageChurch.

Enjoying near summer-like weather, the enthusiastic crowd rose to their feet to sing along with the VillageChurch band that entertained with contemporary Christian music for 90 minutes on stage of the Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union amphitheater. For the next 90 minutes, former University of South Carolina football chaplain Adrian Despres presented a message that brought more than 200 people forward to accept Christ, and 119 acknowledged they accepted Christ for the first time in their lives. Twenty-five attendees were immersed in baptism following Despres’ message.

“Over the past year our church sensed a real need to share the source of Good News after an incredibly difficult year for so many people.  It was overwhelming to see the community response and I have no doubt we were privileged to watch the Lord move Tuesday night,” VillageChurch pastor Erik Estep said. “It’s a perfect lead in to the greatest event in human history…the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection! I’m praying all our churches will be filled with people to hear the Good News.”

After the stage presentation, many in the audience met with the church’s counselors for prayer.

“It was such an exciting thing to be a part of, a huge blessing,” VillageChurch member Amy Paolucci said following the service. “I was taken aback to see how many people responded.”

Ahead of the event, many of the VillageChurch students help prepared 10,000 bags that the church members hung on the doors of 10,000 Blythewood homes to invite them to the special revival. More than 200 church members volunteered to welcome and assist those attending.

The church is located at 574 Rimer Pond Road in Blythewood. For more information, go to blythewoodvillage.com.