posted May 2, 2002
The "Fillin Finley" National Day of Prayer event did not fill every seat in Finley Stadium, but it drew an estimated 20,000 people for prayer, special music and messages, fireworks and free hot dogs, Cokes and Moon Pies.
Officials said the crowd marked the largest National Day of Prayer event ever.
A 70 percent chance of rain had been predicted, and the rain held off during the first part of the program. However, rain did start in the middle of the program and the skies darkened, causing a number of people to exit.
The program was halted for about an hour when there was lightning in the area. But it resumed about 8:45 p.m. and fireworks were set to go off at 9:15 p.m.
The parking lots surrounding the stadium filled up long before the program began, and many walked long distances to the event that also featured a large choir directed by Glenn Draper as well as the popular Christian group "NewSong."
Special speakers included Sgt. Jeffrey Grahn, a New York City policeman, and Bishop Joseph Garlington, senior pastor of the Covenant Church of Pittsburgh.
A large stage was set up on the field, and many in the crowd chose to sit on the grass on the field for a closer view.
The event was coordinated by the Chattanooga Resource Foundation.
Honorary co-chairman were Rep. Zach Wamp, publisher Lee Anderson and Police Chief Jimmie Dotson.
A number of Christian groups had booths set up around the stadium.
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