The Rev. James Meeks conducts final service at Salem Baptist Church: ‘A bittersweet day’

The Rev. James Meeks, left, hands the torch to incoming Pastor Charlie Dates on Sunday at Salem Baptist Church of Chicago. Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and Ald. Anthony Beale were among the dignitaries on hand. (Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times)

The Rev. James Meeks passed the torch to his successor Sunday at Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, which he founded nearly four decades ago.

“I’m almost afraid to pass you this because I know the burden,” Meeks told incoming Pastor Charlie Dates, handing him a torch made of glass. “All I can tell you, Charlie, is that God’s word will hold you.”