The Pleasant Grove Hawk Stadium became a place of testimony and encouragement for local students Wednesday night during the annual Fields of Faith event.
A group of youth pastors and students from several surrounding high schools participated in the event which was also held nationwide. Athletic fields provide a neutral rally point for the community to come together, organizers
said.
Texas High School student Kendall Reed, who was one of the first speakers, shared his story with the large
crowd.
Reed said the loss of his friend Leonard Parks was hard and made him question God's plan.
Parks, a Texas High Senior and athlete, died in his sleep Sept. 2.
"It was hard. I needed spiritual and physical help after that," Reed said.
He said a friend who reminded him of the Bibical Job who lost so much but never doubted God's plan.
"I could relate that to my situation and it made me think God had better things in store," he said.
Texas High School student Allie Graves also spoke about the struggles she faced as a child before she was adopted when she was in the first grade.
"I lived in horror and I know what it feels like to feel hopeless. But I've never been
defined by my circumstances. I'm not a victim. I'm an overcomer," she said.
Other students gave their testimony over a large video screen.
The event was completely student lead and free to the public. Live entertainment was provided before the speakers began their testimony.
Matthew and Michelle Cox also handed out Bibles, bookmarks, and bracelets in memory of their daughter Chloe Cox who passed away earlier this year.
About 20 area schools were represented at Fields of Faith.