Journal-Courier
By Jessica McKinnon
White Hall – Over 100 people gathers at Whiteside Park here Monday night to receive a gospel message with special spin.
Former Harlem Globetrotter Seth Franco, 26, visited the small community as part of a national tour aimed at spreading the age-old story of human redemption. Mr. Franco joined the Globetrotters of their 2003-04 World Tour, then was forced to retire due to medical problems.
The Long Island, N.Y. native wowed the crowd of children and adults with a choreographed basketball-handling routine.
“I believe you don’t need a literal alter to come before God,” Mr. Franco said. “Wherever you go, you can humble yourself before God.”
Mr. Franco took the small wooden stage after a rousing sequence of tunes by the Jacksonville-based Christian rock band Messenger, sharing his talent and his personal testimony with the crowd.
Small children who were transfixed by his agility with the basketball sat in a grassy area in front of the stage and listened intently to his message.
Mr. Franco spoke to the crowd about his background in Christianity and why he believes personal faith in Jesus Christ is important for everyone.
“The best feeling is to go to bed at night knowing that you’ve made the right decisions in your life,” Mr. Franco said. “ I believe the best decision you can ever make in your life is to give your heart to Jesus Christ and put your faith in him.”
Mr. Franco, who had a background in motivational speaker before his stint with the Globetrotters, said that after getting married last fall, he and his wife, Sarah decided to go on the road. Their goal is encouraging children everywhere to stay focused and follow their dreams.
“We go to public schools, youth rallies, church services and community events like the one being held today,” Mr. Franco, who visited North Greens schools on Monday, said. “When we are in public schools we always honor that they don’t want us to share our faith in detail, so we share an anti-drug message.”
Mr. Franco’s message ended with an informal altar call of sorts. Dozens of children and even a few adults gathered around the stage with heads bowed in the setting sun as the basketball player prayed with them to accept Christ into their lives.
Audience member and White Hall native Juanita Henderickson said she felt Mr. Franco’s message was just what the young people needed to hear. “I think Seth’s message was marvelous,” said Mrs. Hendrickson, who’s father and husband are pastors. “Everyone needs to hear this message.
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