Tens of Thousands Expected to Attend Freedom Celebration

By Kenneth Chan, Tuesday, June 29, 2004

Plans are underway for a yearly outreach that features the latest in Christian music with a special presentation of the gospel and ends each night with a spectacular fireworks display. For the past six years, Freedom Celebration has hosted various musical guests such as The Katinas, Audio Adrenaline, Crystal Lewis, The Supertones, Phil Keaggy, The Kry, Dennis Agajanian, Rebecca St. James, Salvador, Jennifer Knapp, and La Rue.

Since 1998, thousands have heard the presentation of the gospel in a culturally relevant context through speakers such as Greg Laurie, Miles Mc Pherson, Raul Ries, Mike MacIntosh and Jeff Johnson. This year's musical guests will include Kutless, Cross Movement, Rebecca St. James, and Salvador. Pastor Pancho Juarez (July 3rd) and Pastor Greg Laurie (July 4th) will be giving the Gospel message.

“In these turbulent days, America continues to battle terrorism at home and around the world,” stated Neil Matranga, Event Coordinator for Freedom Celebration. “The freedom that we enjoy as Americans is being defended by our brave military, and we are never so impacted of the cost of freedom as we are in a time of war. Since its inception, the Freedom Celebration has had the privilege of witnessing the Church come together as many members from your own congregation have brought an unsaved friend to hear the message of Jesus Christ and the price He has paid to purchase true freedom.”

In the previous six years, over 175,000 have heard the Gospel at the Freedom Celebration, and over 9,700 made their commitment to Christ, reported Matranga. Last year, approximately 30,000 attended the event, and 1,300 made their decisions for Christ.

“Freedom Celebration is also about liberation. Once again, God has given us the opportunity to unite as the body of Christ, working together to see souls of men, women, and children released from the power of sin and death!” said Matranga.

Freedom Celebration, hosted and organized by Calvary Chapel Downey, will be held July 3-4 at Cerritos College Stadium in Downey, California, and is free for the public.