Hundreds of people gather in downtown Altoona each Sunday night in June for Saturate Altoona, a worship service uniting the community and as many as 36 Blair County churches and organizations. Mirror photo by Arden McKendree

Every Sunday night in June, Heritage Plaza in downtown Altoona comes alive as large crowds gather for a worship service uniting as many as 36 Blair County churches and organizations for a community-based celebration of Christian faith.

With a focus on unity, Saturate Altoona is designed to break down barriers between Christian denominations, according to Pastor Tim McGarvey of Altoona Alliance Church.

“You hear out there all the time that churches can’t work together, but we really want the community to know that we are stronger together,” McGarvey said. “We would like them to know that it’s not about religion. It’s about a relationship.”

The weekly event begins at 5:30 p.m., with the opening of booths set up by vendors, churches and Christian organizations. People have a chance to learn about available services while munching on free food such as hot dogs, nachos and cotton candy, a favorite among the kids.

They can also stop at a prayer tent with their requests.

“We’ve had people praying for family members that they’re distanced from, physical healing, all types of things,” said Penny, a volunteer in the tent who didn’t provide her last name while describing what it means to be able to provide prayer.

“It’s such a privilege to do that for them,” she said. “They’re so grateful to know that the Lord cares for them so much.”

About 6:30 p.m., people congregate in front of the park’s stage for the hourlong service with live worship music. Lyrics are displayed to ensure that everyone has the chance to sing. And dancing is welcome.

The service also includes guided prayers and guest speakers offering their insight into strengthening Christian faith.

C.J. Fussell, a youth pastor who works with Refuge Youth Network, was guest speaker during the June 14 service. He focused on preparing the next generation for their relationship with Jesus. When asked what he hopes the youth gained from his guidance and the experience of attending Saturate Altoona, Fussell emphasized the importance of recognizing that God has a place in their lives, even when they are young.

“A lot of times, teenagers look at their lives and think: ‘No, not right now. Maybe later.’ But God has something for them right now to impact their world, to change their world for him,” Fussell said.

This year’s last Saturate Altoona service, on Sunday,

June 28, will feature speakers Richard Cox, Chris Weidley, Mark Frailey and Mike Davis. It also includes a baptism service for anyone upon request.

Those interested should advise the team in the prayer tent so preparations can be made.

As Saturate Altoona wraps up for its sixth year, McGarvey named three purposes the event is accomplishing. He said it lets people know that somebody cares about them, it provides people with the chance to make prayer requests and it offers a way to spread the Christian faith.

“We want to give people repeated opportunities to hear the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ and have opportunities to receive it,” McGarvey added. “I guess our tagline would be: ‘No sheep without a shepherd.'”