Young people came out in droves Saturday for the entertainment, education and food at the eighth annual “Stomp the Yard” rally.

Dr. Bernard Bishop Ministries, in association with Deliverance Ministry of Jesus Christ, Inc. presents the event each year to provide positive life messages to youngsters through guest speakers and activities.

“When we started this event eight years ago, we were told it couldn’t happen,” Bishop said. “But I serve a God who has power and abilities to make things happen that man says cannot happen.”

Bishop said he was proud that the highly attended event has never once had a bad fight or another instance of violence.

“We try to teach that violence is not the answer,” he said.

Jonathan Stephens, the Director of Youth and Young Families, was one of the guest speakers at the event. He told the young people in attendance that sexuality is a gift from God and it is important to stay abstinent until marriage.

“The devil has perverted sexual to become something to pull us away from God,” he said. “It may seem impossible to break the chains of pornography, but the Lord Jesus Christ broke those chains for you when he died on the cross.”

All of the speakers and events featured a Christian message, and several musical acts performed Christian songs. Among those performers was Felicia Bishop, who sang “That’s Why My Heart is Filled with Praise.”

“The only satisfaction in life can come from the transforming blood of Jesus Christ,” Stephens said.

During the opening ceremony, Atmore city council member and state Senate candidate Susan Smith, representing the city of Atmore, told the Bishops that their “Stomp the Yard” event was a great thing for the community.

Other activities throughout the day included basketball and tennis tournaments, and a youth Bible trivia contest.