Franklin Graham, son of evangelist Billy Graham, is coming to Greater Binghamton. The NYPENN Franklin Graham Festival will be held at the SUNY Binghamton Events Center from June 8 to June 10.

 Two hundred eighty-seven area churches from various denominations have banned together to prepare for the event, volunteer at the festival and carry on additional ministry. Hundreds of local church members attend meetings and participate in classes conducted by Franklin Graham Festival organizers. 

 "It's a lot for a community of this size," said Art Bailey, director of the NYPENN Franklin Graham Festival, remarking on the number of people that are "hands-on and taking part." He believes that widespread interest in the festival is a "direct result of people here (locally) having prayed." 

 At the initial planning meetings, festival organizers mentioned that a group of area pastors had met together for 16 years and prayed fervently for a revival-type of event like this to take place. In addition to the "number, sincerity and regularity of prayer, the most striking thing is the heart with which they pray," Bailey noted.

 Not only are churches focused on the event, but Bailey has noticed how much the community at large knows about the festival. "I spoke with city council and state officials and they are aware of the level at which this is happening and recognize the potential of what is here" among the churches united for this event, he said. 

 Franklin Graham will be speaking on Friday, June 8, at 7:00 pm, Saturday, June 9 at 7:00 pm and Sunday, June 10 at 4:00 pm. Special guest artists performing during the evening sessions will be Point of Grace, Tree63, Third Day and Building 429.

 Kidzfest, a special children's event, featuring Bibleman and a children's choir will be held on Saturday, June 9 at 10:00 am.

 Admission to all events is free to the public. For those who need rides, free 
transportation will be available through local volunteers at an Apalachin pickup point. Reservations must be made ahead of time. It's recommended that participants arrive at the festival two hours before the festival begins, as seating is limited and is on a first come, first served basis. 

 For transportation contact John Hogan by May 31 at 349-9545 or e-mail him at apalachinride@ stny.rr.com. 

 For more detailed information about the NYPENN Franklin Graham Festival go to www.grahamfestival. org/binghamton.