Essen Venue Overflows with God’s Love

by Staff Writer   |     |   ,
“Are you lost tonight? Come to Christ,” Franklin Graham asked Saturday night at the Festival of Hope in Essen, Germany. Through a German interpreter, he told them Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, the life, and that no one can get to God except through Him (John 14:6).
Churches brought 2,500 people on buses to the Festival from as far away as Hamburg—nearly five hours north of Essen.
Volunteers warmly welcomed people as they arrived at the event.
Dennis Agajanian opened up the night with a energetic guitar solo, lifting up the Name of Jesus and pointing people to Him through music.
Before the event, volunteer counselors prepared to meet and pray with individuals responding to the Gospel invitation later that night. Those who made decisions for Christ received a packet containing a Bible and discipleship resources to help them grow in their faith.
Rev. Ulrich Parzany, a respected pastor in this region, shared at the beginning of the night that following God is not about traditions and programs, but it’s about a relationship with our Creator. “Open your heart,” he urged. “Jesus is knocking.”
A listening ear from a prayer counselor can mean a lot for someone who is searching for answers.
Thirty years after his father, Billy Graham, came to Essen to share about the eternal salvation that is found in Jesus Christ, Franklin Graham was burdened to preach the same Gospel message to the German people of this generation.
Veronika Lohmer and Band invited the crowd to worship God as she sang “King of My Heart.” Hundreds asked Jesus Christ to be the King of their heart on Saturday evening in Essen.
Trained volunteers prayed with and supported those who were filled with emotion as they made decisions to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.
Wrapping up the powerful night, Michael Tait of the Newsboys led the crowd in thanking and worshipping the Lord for the great things He had done.
Over 550 people responded to the Gospel message. This young woman filled out a card with her information to be connected with a church that can help her grow in her faith.
The Grugahalle arena was packed to full capacity—with others finding a seat in the overflow area.
Have you told anyone lately about the hope Jesus Christ offers? You can share the four steps to peace with God with someone today.