Selma’s third annual Night of Hope took place Wednesday night at Bloch Park.

This year’s Night of Hope drew the largest crowd yet. The bleachers at Bloch Park were filled with members of the community looking to hear an uplifting message and enjoy the safe and family-friendly atmosphere.

“In small towns in the south, sometimes there’s a lot of negative chatter,” said Bishop Chuck Jones. “I think it’s important we look past that and see that God is doing good things in Selma.”

After some praise music and an opening prayer by Jones, Dr. Christine Nelson took to the stage to deliver her message.

Nelson is a teacher, minister and an author of nine books. Nelson’s message focused on unity, doing your part and accepting your talents and abilities.

“We have more in common than we have separation,” said Nelson.

Dr. Nelson spoke of the community of Selma as a body, with each person playing a different part.

“It takes every part to have a healthy body,” she said. “If someone loses even a pinky toe then they have trouble standing upright.”

Nelson also discussed the importance of knowing your role in your community by following your passions.

“If you are an arm, be an arm; if you are eyes, be the eyes,” she said.

After Nelson’s message, Selma City Councilwoman Miah Jackson, organizer of the event, thanked all of the sponsors who made the event possible.

After Jackson thanked all of the sponsors and everyone else who came out, Dr. Paul J. Kim delivered the closing prayer.