Special thanks to Tricia Rosson for this post

Assembling the float

It was so exciting to enter River of Life’s first float in the Hot Springs Christmas parade! We wanted the float to represent our church, so we designed the blessings of God “love, joy, peace” flowing through living waters from the throne of God. We actually had flowing water coming down the float. With the lights and the music on it was a powerful image. Then to top it off, my son Logan was inspired to start the “free hugs ministry” that incorporated into the overall theme by showing love and compassion through hugs to everyone along the parade route.

I was a little apprehensive about how the hugs would be received but as soon as we started that apprehension quickly faded! The look on people’s faces when we asked them if they would like a hug were priceless. People were cautious at first then would say, “I would love a hug!” The most awesome thing was that it was not about us and the beautiful float but about the people along the streets. We estimate that we gave away 1400 hugs that night. Amazing!

Free Hugs!

It is great how something so simple can make such an impact. By just being there, and giving away hugs, conversations were started that we believe are going to lead to people giving their lives to Jesus! Be looking for more from the “free hugs ministry” of River of Life.