CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WV News) — After a year cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the three-day Jesus Fest festival will return to downtown Clarksburg.
“Ever since our first meetings in January to plan this year’s event, we never thought about canceling again this year,” Board President Michael Gallo said. “We always knew God would make a way for this to happen.”
Activities at the free festival will begin with an opening prayer at 6 p.m. Aug. 13. All music, testimony and other activities will be held at Jackson Square.
August 13 is also expected to include music from The Shine Effect, a four-person rock/worship band from Jacksboro, Tennessee, that has performed at the 2018 and 2019 events as well, and Disciple, a Christian metal and rock band formed by Tennessee friends in 1992. The Shine Effect is slated to perform at 7:30 p.m. and Disciple at 9 p.m., respectively.
The Shine Effect is celebrating 10 years of music ministry and is made up of Josh and Christa Roberts, as well as Josh’s brother Ben and wife Maria.
“We love this city,” Christa Roberts said before their 2019 performance. “About 70 percent of what we do are with Celebrate Recovery groups, so we’ve gotten to meet a lot of different people in the city. It feels like a family reunion when we come back here.”
Celebrate Recovery and North Appalachian Teen Challenge leaders, including those from Clarksburg Baptist Church, will lead testimony before Seventh Day Slumber performs at 9:15 p.m.
Local bands, including those from Buckhannon and Elkins, are also slated to perform during the weekend. Gallo said board members continue reaching out to local bands.
Five musical groups and three speakers are scheduled so far to enlighten the audience Aug. 14 before board members bless local and state dignitaries and founding board members at 6 p.m. Founding board members Sissy Hibb and Ret. Pastor Bob Wilson will be honored during that ceremony.
All dignitaries are invited to participate as well.
Many of the musicians are reoccurring acts, according to Gallo. Gallo was especially appreciative that artists have been understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic and possible restrictions due to the rise of COVID-19 cases with the Delta variant.
“All of the money we put up front would be refunded if the governor or president ceases everything again,” Gallo said. He receives continuous updates from Harrison-Clarksburg Health Department leaders.
A community service at 11 a.m. kicks off Sunday’s speakers, activities and entertainment.
Free children’s activities will be available each afternoon.
Frank Jarman and B.K. Vanhorn organized the first Jesus Fest in 2005.
Gallo was also appreciative for the support from the Harrison County and City of Clarksburg elected officials and Clarksburg’s public works and parks and recreation departments in preparation for the event.
Offerings will be accepted each day and through the rest of the year in hopes of raising funds for future entertainment.
