Franklin Graham talked about his wife, children and grandchildren before preaching the Gospel on Friday—which was also his 41st wedding anniversary.
An Icelandic choir called the Reykjavik Gospel Company even had event staff swaying and tapping their toes in the aisles of the arena. The crowd gave them a warm Southern welcome with a standing ovation.
Worship was plentiful at the Bartow Arena on Friday night.
Powerful worship.
Many young people attended the event. Saturday's Festival will be geared toward students, with performances by Newsboys, Lacey, Flame and others.
“God loves you and tonight God will forgive you of all your sins," Franklin Graham told those who walked forward during the invitation to accept Christ.
Churches saw the Festival of Hope with Franklin Graham as a way to unite races and denominations at a time when tensions are growing across the nation.
Kirk Franklin had lots of fun with the crowd, giving them a big cheese while performing the song "I Smile."
Singing right on key from the audience as Kirk Franklin performed on stage.
Nearly 5,000 people attended the first night of the Greater Birmingham Festival of Hope with Franklin Graham.
“I’ve always loved this state,” guitarist Dennis Agajanian said. “You even have a song written about you.” Agajanian’s rendition of “Sweet Home Alabama” had nearly every person on their feet, singing along.
The Tommy Coomes Band has traveled around the world with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, always performing just before Franklin Graham takes the stage.
Franklin Graham spoke about hopelessness in America and how people can be blind to the truth. The message touched many listening. Here, a counselor explains more about the hope of Christ.
A counselor offered to hold this little guy while his mom (far right) filled out the information form given at each Festival to connect attendees with a local church.
Hundreds of churches and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds attended the event.
Two women pray together after Franklin Graham gives the invitation to accept Christ. “Why Jesus Christ? Because He was the only one who took your sins. … He took Franklin Graham’s sins. … My sins were nailed to that cross," he said.
A counselor takes a moment to give God glory.
Enjoying the view after Franklin Graham's message.
Amena Brown has hosted several Franklin Graham events. She also took the stage to perform a spoken word piece.
