Hundreds gathered at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater Saturday joining others around the country, and in some other nations around the world, in a March for Jesus event.

The march gathered Valley Christians in the venue's first major summer event this year.

In Youngstown, there was enthusiasm as Christians held signs saying Jesus is Faithful and a Healer, and the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Adult and Teen Challenge of Ohio Valley says faith-based rehabilitation is providing hope and help for people struggling with addictions.

Dominic Pulice of Adult and Teen Challenge of Ohio Valley said, "We need Christ more than ever now." He also talked about the importance of faith-based rehabilitation and counseling to break the bonds of addiction.

Hundreds of people enjoyed praise bands, and prayer some brought their kids.

"It's important to show our kids there is one creator and his name is Jesus Christ. We need to bring up our kids knowing this," said Brian Parish.

A man of prayer Youngstown Police Chief Carl Davis received applause after leading the group in a prayer.

Monsignor Robert Siffirin, Vicar General of the Youngstown Diocese said, "Truly the Lord wants us to be one so we might give better witness of his love to the world and our readiness to use the gifts he gives us for peace, harmony, and the love of God."

Siffirin explained this Sunday the Pentecost, which is 50 days after Easter celebrates that first Pentecost, the birthday of the church we call it, when the gifts of the holy spirit were poured forth upon us and all the people could in their own language the proclamation of the good news, and to be touched by the joy and enthusiasm of the Apostles as they gave witness of the risen Christ.

Monsignor Siffirin also talked about signs the Lord is watching over us as we come out of this pandemic.

"I've seen so many people willing to give of themselves for others during these days of the pandemic and to see the burden being lifted and the joy returning to peoples hearts, so they can visit with family and friends to be there to give comfort to the sick to be present when those that are dying when they couldn't in these many months in the pandemic. Truly it's a time to be back together to support each other to give our love and worship to our Almighty God," said Monsignor Siffirin.

His message to people who don't know the Lord is, "He knows you. He loves you, and he wants you to know his love more and more each day," emphasized Monsignor Siffirin.