Reflections from the FFA Convention Outreach – by Art Free

There is something deeply moving about watching young people engage with the Gospel. At the FCFI booths during FFA conventions, we are always focused on our core mission—to spread the Gospel and see lives transformed. But through my experiences, I’ve come to realize there is another equally powerful outcome of this ministry: encouragement and affirmation for young believers.

As I begin to share the Wordless Gospel message with students, I often witness an immediate change in their expressions. Smiles form, eyes brighten, and something clicks. When I finish presenting, I ask if they have accepted Jesus—and many joyfully say they have.

That moment is powerful. Their reaction tells me that hearing the Gospel spoken out loud affirms their faith. It’s as if someone speaking boldly for Jesus outside of a church setting confirms what they already believe and encourages them to own it with confidence. I tell them, “You can share the Gospel just like I shared it with you—just as simply—with your friends.”

Before they go, I always ask if I can pray with them. I pray for their safety, that they enjoy the convention, and for safe travels back home. Most importantly, I ask God to bless them as they grow and develop spiritually throughout their lives.

Almost every student responds with warmth and gratitude. They often reach out to shake my hand and say, “Thank you for being here!”

In today’s world, students rarely encounter bold, public expressions of faith outside the walls of a church. And that’s one of the hidden blessings of FCFI’s presence at these conventions: we’re not only planting seeds, but we’re also watering existing faith—strengthening, affirming, and encouraging young believers in a time when they need it most.