Dozens of young people danced onto the field to kick off the second night of the Festival with a half-hour flash mob. Their energy reverberated throughout the audience.
For the second and final night of the Festival de Esperança (Festival of Hope), Franklin Graham preached about the value of a soul—that each person is worth infinitely more than anything of material value.
The two-day Festival was held at Arena Castelão, where World Cup games have been played. But Saturday, the crowd was celebrating salvation rather than a team. After months of preparation, it was the moment the city had been waiting for.
At Franklin's invitation, people got out of their seats and descended the bleachers to come forward, making a public commitment to Christ.
A Brazilian choir made up of hundreds of singers led the stadium in worship, waving white flags as they sang.
Dennis Agajanian's guitar skills fascinated the audience.
Dancers practiced for several weeks to get down the flash mob routine. They held green and yellow flags to represent their country.
Many people who responded to the invitation came forward in groups and as family, with many bringing their children along.
Seeing people invite Jesus Christ into their lives is a moving experience. Thrilled to see their fellow Brazilians make the most important decision of their lives, many in the crowd used their phones to take pictures and record video.
Among a crowd, but taking a quiet moment between her and God.
Deciding to turn your life around with God's help can be an emotional experience.
This weekend was Franklin Graham's first time preaching in Fortaleza, but God used him to make an impression on the people, to speak boldly about their need for a Savior.
The audience couldn't wait to hear Michael W. Smith, and he was eager to hear them. He turned the mic around to pick up the thousands of voices singing around the arena.
People who come forward at Festivals are never alone. Trained counselors are available to answer their questions, make sure they understand the Gospel and follow up with people after the event.
Walking a young man through what it means to have Christ in your life.
More than 45,000 people came to hear a message from Franklin Graham, and afterwards, hundreds of them were up front to respond to that message.
This counselor sat down with two boys to talk about Jesus Christ.
Michael W. Smith closed out the event with popular songs that many in the audience knew by heart.
One of life's greatest joys: seeing children begin a relationship with Christ.
