The

back-to-school blast will feature Christian contemporary

music and entertainment, free food, live bands, special

guest speakers, and performances from several Christian

musicians and comedians. Admission is free.

"The

purpose of `Joyfest' is to offer the youth of South metro

Atlanta a high quality event providing `positive' music

and lyrics, upbeat speakers on dealing with

relationships, conflict and anger in an appealing concert

atmosphere," a spokesperson said. "The recent

school and community violence, especially so close to

home, has everyone asking what should and can be done to

help prevent future incidents. Many people, groups and

experts have offered possible solutions. All seem to

agree, our teens need to feel acceptance, love, a sense

of purpose and hope for the future."

Among the

performers will be `Audience of One,' Joel Goddard,

`Linger', Philip Johnson, the music and comedy of Philip

Hare, and special guest `dj pop icon.'

The event

will conclude with a candlelight commitment service.

Jodeco

Baptist Church is at 1290 Jodeco Rd., across from Pates

Creek Elementary School, in Stockbridge. For more

information or directions, call the church at

770-474-3420, direct e-mail to [email protected], or

visit the church's website at www.angelfire.com/ga/jodecobaptistchurch .

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