Hundreds of people rose up to the challenge. The homeless were fed, nursing home residents visited, and lives were changed. Over 2,000 Christians shined the glorious light of Christ all over Broward County, as Calvary hosted “Love Out Louder Day.”

There were over 30 outreaches to choose from, under the categories of: bondage, sorrow, poverty, and suffering. From hosting a block party for Golden Acres to sewing purses for victims of human trafficking, there was something for everyone to do. Some of the biggest achievements of the day were: 1,150,000 Haiti bound meals were packed, Calvary Chapel Sandalfoot started their ministry, and over 30 cars were washed in Jesus’ name.

Titled, “Deeper,” the conference’s theme was based on Psalm 1:3: “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Those involved in the Skate Conference hoped to encourage the athletes to go deeper into the Word themselves and help create disciples of Christ. Among the speakers who shared their testimonies, was skateboarding legend Christian Hosoi. Hosoi is not only a skater, but also an assistant pastor with a goal to encourage students with their walk with Christ.

It was clear that God’s presence was there, as many hearts were radically changed. “A young girl working as an escort prayed for salvation in Christ and today left her boyfriend and is beginning a new life with Christ with the help of our church body,” said Toni Frallicciardi, Ramp 48’s overseer. “The Lord orchestrated the perfect timing as a Rastafarian skater shared his view on God. Two skaters with a similar background began sharing the truth of God’s Word just as a Jamaican missionary walked up and challenged him to seek Christ. He left with questions rattling around his head and many seeds planted.”

Toni shared many God stories but one stood out above the others. ”A sixteen year old son of one of our volunteers shared with me that he grew up in the church but was agnostic. We had an amazing talk and I challenged him to begin trying to prove the Bible wrong. Many poured into him and he will begin volunteering alongside the guys at the park and they will pour into him with the truth of Christ. I cannot wait to have more conversations with him,” she said.

Throughout the Skate Conference, there were a variety of events. On Thursday, there was a premiere of a Foolishness Skate Video first previewed at Cinema Paradiso in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, as well as an art show. Friday night, the reputable event Midnight Madness took place at Island Water Sports in Deerfield Beach. Saturday, at Ramp 48 there was a “best trick contest” with a prize of $1000.

The 2009 Skate Conference was created to bring the gospel into the skateboarding culture. Prayers were constantly sent up heavenward throughout the entire event, which resulted in an incredible success.