Spirit Fest a celebration for all ages

by Rhonda Costa

Nevada Appeal

When the Rev. Leo Kruger had a vision to hold a faith-based public event, little did he know just how big it was going to become.

Spirit Fest 2008 is for people of all ages and all walks of life to enjoy some time outdoors taking in music, skateboarding, games and learn about faith. It will be held from 5-10 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday at Lampe Park in Gardnerville.

"I felt the Lord put this on my heart," Kruger said. "We will be there to celebrate the fruit of the spirit (of Jesus Christ)."

Featured at the event will be A Current Affair, a Christian rock band from Reedly, Calif., Boarders for Christ, pro-circuit skateboarders who preach the gospel to youth during their demonstrations and who will judge a skateboarding competition, local musicians, food, eight inflatable children's games, food and refreshments.

Those who wish to compete in the skateboarding competition must be registered in advance and sign a waiver. Call (888) 720-5777 for information.

Booths for each church participating in the event will be available, as will Big Brothers and Big Sisters, various Christian schools, in addition to security, Puppets 'n' Praise, and animals from the Sierra Safari Zoo in Reno.

"We'll have adult competitions in softball, volleyball, dodge ball and horseshoes," Kruger said. "The winner of each will then have the honor of serving a needy person or family in the community, someone who is in need of repairs to their home like painting, handiwork, things like that."

Organizers are seeking nominations for people with financial or physical restrictions who are in need of help with repairs around their home. They ask people not nominate themselves.

Anyone sending a nomination letter must include their contact information in case organizers have questions or can notify them if their nominee is selected. Letters should explain why the person is in need and what is being requested.

A prayer tent will also be available. Kruger said people specifically trained in prayer and who also understand evangelism will man the tent.

"They will help lead those to Christ who ask for help," Kruger added.

"A booth that is quite popular is the 'Will you go to heaven?' booth. I have seen people lined up for some time waiting to get in to answer the question. It's quite amazing."

Friday's event kicks off at 5 p.m. with bluegrass music and a few other local worship bands, who will also perform on Saturday. Foods available include pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, cotton candy, barbecue, sodas, water, snow cones, and Java Juice will have a booth.

"This has taken off way beyond what we expected it to," Kruger said. "We're not promoting any church, there's nothing political about it, nothing commercial. It's about wrapping our arms around each other.

"Our goal is at 8 p.m. Saturday to shut down all activities and worship the Lord together."

For information on Spirit Fest '08, call (888) 720-5777.