WINONA, Miss. (WTVA) - The Winona Baptist Church held an outdoor Thanksgiving Day service for community members to worship on the day of thanks. 

Winona Baptist Church pastor, Mark Williamson explained his purpose for today's sermon.

“Today we wanted to really bring the meaning out to Thanksgiving because the second part of that word, Thanksgiving, is giving," said Williamson. "We want to give back to the community, let the community worship with us outside.”

The church set up seats socially distanced for people to use, as well as used provided several speakers so people in their cars could enjoy the preaching. 

Kynyardea Seals does not normally attend Winona Baptist but made the switch so she could go to an in-person service.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday," explained Seals. "If service is out here in the parking lot, I want to be a part to give my God His praise.”

Seals said the in-person service gave a sense of community.

It's that supportive community feel that Reverend Williamson wants by providing a Thanksgiving service. 

“We want to send a message that we are here for the community. We’re not just a church here, but we’re here for the community.”

Winona Baptist has held outdoor services since April and will continue to do so until it is safe to return inside according to Reverend Williamson.