After a full week of setup and activities we are finally down to our last day of preparation for the festival! God has (as always) been so good to us! We are STOKED to see all that the Lord will do in this community through the churches, media and of course, Andrew! So far it has been simply amazing to watch Him work in this coastal community.  Andrew has been a pro — knocking out interviews, meetings with the local team and even going above and beyond and last night even sported a pie in the face at a youth event… all in the name of Jesus. 

Yesterday we held a press conference for Andrew which was the first “official” activity onsite. Thankfully, ABC, CBS & Fox all had videographers present which ran stories at 12, 5 & 6 regarding the festival. Shortly after that wrapped, we raced off to do a TV taping for a local show called RiverTalk with Jack Murphy.
On the way up both Andrew and Jim Keen (Festival Director) fielded interview questions from the Sun Times for two different articles (talk about maximizing time!) Check out the results here and here.

By the time we wrapped the RiverTalk shoot and returned to the site, the stage had been raised sporting Andrews’ brand new stage header. It looks sharp and I think honors the Lord with excellence! Another local reporter came out and took some shots of the setup efforts. Everything is coming together thanks in part by your support and prayers - keep them coming!

In the evening Andrew and our emcee Lindz West were at Carolina Forrest Community Church to share with 650 kindergarten to 5th grade kids and their parents.  CFCC runs the program Nick At Night each Wednesday night in June and it is truly a sight to behold.  Andrew and Lindz joined several teams for wild and messy games on the field.  Andrew was both slimed and potatoed before being rinsed off with a fire hose.  It was a great night and a lot of fun.

The whole teams’ spirits are high and the 99º+ heat wave of last week has ebbed to a tolerable hot. Forecast calls for sunshine in the upper 80’s for the weekend which would be absolutely perfect! Volunteers and team members from around the country have finally landed despite cancelled flights, long layovers and lost luggage. Be praying for the team as we finalize all the things that need to be accomplished before the gates open tomorrow. Also pray for Andrew for strength and favor with this community and that we have a lasting impact locally and beyond! In 2002 some 20+ states were represented on decision cards! Also, our athletes start early in the morning too… cover them with prayers for safety and effectiveness! Thanks for your support & check back for more updates! Eric and Doug should have some new photos going up soon. Be blessed! — Holly

Posted in BeachFest, Andrew Palau News