Tonight, 12,140 attended and 743 people came forward. Thousands more watched on Latvian National Television. Franklin Graham shared the Gospel in a compelling way, basing his message on the story of Zacchaeus from Luke 10. He then spoke to problems that everyone faces, especially the problem of sin. “Only Jesus Christ can solve the problems of the human heart,” he told the attentive crowd.
The evening began with another set of powerful praise and worship. Speaking of music, at the beginning of the night, we caught up with Michael W. Smith who wished Billy Graham a Happy 92nd Birthday.
Smitty also told us a little about his new album, his favorite travel memories, and how he prayed God would move in Latvia. Check out our conversation »
Nov. 6: Overflowing with Joy
Tonight, an overflow crowd of 14,100 packed Arena Riga to worship along with Michael W. Smith, John and Annie Barbour, Huntley Brown and some amazing local musicians.
The capstone of the night was a stirring message from Franklin Graham based on Mark 10: 17-22, the story of the Rich Young Ruler. More than 780 people responded by giving their lives to Christ or rededicating themselves to follow Him more closely.
One young lady named Erena committed her life to Christ because she was desperate for change. After losing custody of two of her three daughters, she did not know where else to turn. “Tonight I felt Christ come over my whole body and I feel so much peace,” she said. “I know I still have problems to overcome, but now I have hope and God’s help.”
At end of the night, Festival executive chairman Peteris Sprogis said, “Our Arena is too big for most rock bands, just right for hockey, but way too small for hope!”
Nov. 6: A Special Graduation
Latvia is the first country in Europe to launch The Greatest Journey, a children’s discipleship program that is the next step after kids receive an Operation Christmas Child shoe box gift. Today, in Riga, Latvia, Franklin Graham personally handed out diplomas and Bibles to 27 graduates. Pics and stories to come, including that of Juliana, one of the teachers who overcame alcohol, drugs and despair as a teen to now shepherd precious little ones. Learn more about this ministry here »
Nov. 5: Friday Night Recap
Almost 12,000 people filled Riga Arena Friday night in Latvia to hear the Good News of the Gospel. Close to 600 people made commitments to Jesus tonight, praise God!! Please pray for the next two services, Saturday and Sunday. We’ll bring you more stories of changed lives from this former part of the Soviet Union the next few days! Stay tuned.
Nov. 1: A Revival of Hope in Latvia
Bishop Peteris Sprogis, the executive chair of the Ceribas Festival with Franklin Graham, recently talked to Decision Magazine about the past and present challenges of the church in Latvia, and why he believes that God is doing great things in this Baltic nation of some 2.2 million people. Read the article »
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