Franklin Graham, son of the legendary Billy Graham brought his Festival of Hope to Jacksonville.

Almost all Christians, no matter the denomination know the Graham family. I remember when Billy Graham filled the Gator Bowl fifteen years ago. I heard of his son Franklin Graham bringing his tour to town and felt I needed to go.

I prayed about it and felt the compelling desire to attend. I mentioned the event to another Catholic, not as invite but more as a ‘this is what we are doing.’ When I did the reaction was that of surprise. They then went into a segue of how wrong they were and how right we were.

This did not sway my decision to attend, if anything just the opposite. As Christians if we spent less time judging one another and more time loving. Maybe just maybe the world would be a better place.

Friday nights event started off with music by the band Caves from Canada. The emcee for the weekend was spoken word poet Amena Brown. Her husband providing dj entertainment for the weekend. City Harmonic really got the party started. Franklin Graham spoke about his hope not only for America but even his hope for our own city. After hundreds of people were brought to Christ, the band Tenth Avenue North closed out the evening.

Saturday night Franklin’s talk was centered around the story of the prodigal son. A packed house witnessed hundreds more come to Christ. By standing up for God and publicly admitting there sinners

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Marywood is known to the local Catholic community as a place for retreats and retired priests. This retreat area in Switzerland, Florida is that and so much more.  Marywood Retreat Center also has opened a bed and breakfast on site. Beyond the spectacular views and serenity you will find God’s grace. Past all the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. On the banks of the St. Johns River lies a piece of heaven on earth. We stayed in the Fountain room, adorned with decorative drapes and ornate rugs. The pillow top king bed provided some much-needed tranquil sleep. The spacious room is rich in colors that feel like home. Comfortable chairs and a writing desk overlook the history below. There is a pool, tennis and basketball courts. Nature trails that weave through the campus of old trees. The bed and breakfast are nestled in the center of the retreat. Rooms each decorated with care and prayerfully attended. A small chapel overlooks the riverbank below. A dock stretches out into the sunset on the river. The weekend we stayed there was an engaged encounter and marriage retreat on site. Even with all the other people we never felt crowded or uptight. We were given full access to the retreat and all it’s offerings. We shared dinner on the back porch, taking in all the beauty. Spent time in the chapel reading scriptures together. Took a walk in the moonlight up to the church on site. Marywood has become such a peaceful getaway. I had heard of […]

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