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Franklin Graham, son of Rev. Billy Graham and first vice-chairman of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, preached a series of sermons.
Despite standing room only on opening night in both the 8,000-seat hockey arena and the 2,000-seat overflow arena equipped with a closed-circuit giant screen television, many responded to the invitation to follow Christ.
Organizers began working on Central Ontario Festival '96 more than a year-and-a-half ago under the direction of local executive chair and former Kitchener Conservative MP John Reimer, a member of Kitchener MB Church. "What we have seen here this week with more than 1,120 decisions to follow Christ will have a lasting effect on central Ontario for years to come," said Reimer.
Local dignitaries and celebrities attended the Festival, including the mayor of Kitchener, Richard Christy. "I stand before you as a father, husband, mayor of this great city and a university professor and at one point of my life had to come to terms with the words of Jesus: `Come and I will give you eternal life.' I encourage each of you to do the same this week."
Canadian football star Mike "Pinball" Clemons of the Toronto Argonauts, formerly with the Kansas City Chiefs, addressed the audience on youth night encouraging young people to become a "star" for Christ.
The festival was opened each evening with musical performances by Christian contemporary and country artists, including: Ricky Skaggs, Paul Overstreet, Dennis Agajanian, Crystal Lewis and the Maranatha! Praise Band.
Other festival activities included two children's rallies Oct. 5 and two youth rallies, Oct. 5 and 7 for students, complete with a free "pizza blast" and concert performances by music talents Al Denson and Nouveaux. A special senior adult service was held at noon Oct. 8. Graham also addressed about 250 university students and faculty at Hagey Hall on the University of Waterloo campus.
BGEA release
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