Those lights south of Fincastle were not an alien invasion but a symbol of  goodwill to all out and about on the night of Feb. 6. Fincastle Baptist Church is promoting a new campaign called “Flip your light switch.” Rev. Kevin Cummings launched the campaign in services this past Sunday Feb. 3 and it is for the congregation and church to be a light to the community.

Called Skylanterns, the three foot long balloon like lanterns flew to 1,000 feet, drifting through the night sky and then disintegrated. A simple  cardboard lighted  propulsion system filled the lantern with enough hot air to rise into the sky. It was a beautiful and serene sight to see hundreds of the lanterns in the dark night.  The new campaign follows a Bible verse: “I have made you a light that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” Acts. 13:47.

Fincastle and Troutville Fire Departments  were on hand for the event and helped light the lanterns and keep a watch over the scene.

Said Cummings, “Skylanterns are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. They are made of rice paper and bamboo, so there is  no harm to the environment.” He and his wife Terry launched at least one after he held a launch countdown worthy of Mission Control!