TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Hundreds gathered outside the historic Florida Capitol building this morning to join Reverend Franklin Graham in a prayer for America.
Rev. Graham, the son of Evangelist Billy Graham, is currently on a national tour called "Decision America". He's stopping in all 50 states with the purpose of encouraging Christians to pray for the country and to register to vote in this year's elections.
Tallahassee is the Reverend's second stop on the tour after kicking things off in Iowa.
Some people drove several hours early Tuesday to make sure they were a part of the event. Reverend Graham said his appearance was not political - despite speaking on the first day of the Florida legislative session. He said he trusts neither the republican nor democratic parties to lead the country -- in terms of Biblical principles.
People joined hands and prayed silently for the country, its leaders, and the elections this year. Jordyn Kruzel, a Christian from Sarasota, says he is thankful Rev. Graham came to Florida.
"He's so involved with what he does, coming down to Florida," said Kruzel. "It's a huge place to speak. I strongly agree with what he wants to say and how he wants to help other people and preach about his messages. It's wonderful."
While much of the crowd was there to support Rev. Graham, a few were there with a different message. A group called Tallahassee Atheists brought signs to the prayer rally.
Austin Aycock, the group's leader, says Christians approached them respectfully while they demonstrated, but argues that the Reverend's position on certain issues are discriminatory.
"While this is a small number compared to the massive numbers of the Franklin Graham rally, I do think it's important and good to plant a little seed of opposition," explained Aycock.
The rally lasted for about an hour. Rev. Graham says his father Billy, who's now 97-years old, sent his prayers and support as well.
Rev. Graham called the turnout in Tallahassee "tremendous" but said it also shows the "level of frustration" people have about the direction the country is going.
He is already on his way to the next stop of his tour in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
