Faith, unity and miracles: Mansfield Speedway to host Festival of Hope

MANSFIELD — Mansfield will roar with hope this summer.

The Festival of Hope aims to breathe new life into the city by spotlighting stories of perseverance and faith, according to Jess Wilging, of Fusion Lex and executive director of Godsfield.

“Being a recovered addict myself, I see the number one thing that makes people stop short in overcoming their mountains is losing hope,” Wilging said. “If hope stays lit, people accomplish the miraculous.”

Festival of Hope Business Gala

The Festival of Hope Business Owner Gala will take place at the Blueberry Patch, April 28 at 6 p.m.
It allows for businesses to participate, RSVPs are available online.

“We want our community to be lit up with hope.”

The Festival of Hope will take place at the Mansfield Speedway, 400 Crall Rd. E., Aug. 22 at 5 p.m.

Doors opened through faith

The event sprang to life through what organizers describe as divine guidance.

A steering committee made up of several churches has been diligently working on creating a space and atmosphere for a mass community gathering since October. Wilging said, unfortunately, the committee experienced closed door after closed door.

Halfway through the March of Prayer, she said Matt Tifft, owner of Mansfield Speedway, contacted a steering committee member stating God woke him up and told him to host the Festival of Hope this summer.

That same day, Markus McFolling, a graduate of Willard Teen Challenge and ministry leader, confirmed he would be the keynote speaker.

McFolling already had plans to speak in Willard on Aug. 28 and 29, when he heard about the efforts going on in Mansfield, he cleared his schedule to join the Festival of Hope, Wilging said.

“God opened the doors for this to fall together,” she added. “It became effortless once I released it over to God.”

The Mansfield Speedway can host anywhere from 500 to 42,000 people, but organizers plan for 12,000 attendees, leaving room to grow even bigger.

Community voices take center stage

The festival will highlight testimonies of triumph from people in the community. Anyone who wants to share a short, interview-style video (30-90 seconds) about overcoming addiction or hardships can email hellogodsfield@gmail.com.

promotional image for festival of hope — Festival of Hope set for Aug. 22 at Mansfield Speedway. (Image provided by Jessica Wilging)

“It is good and pleasant for brothers and sisters to dwell together in unity,” said Renea Collins of Kingdom Grace Fellowship. “No matter the background, ethnicity or gender, everyone goes through times of needing encouragement, the Festival of Hope will demonstrate unity and offer the hope that comes from knowing Jesus.”

Godsfield and the steering committee will recruit volunteers for roles like security, parking, greeters, canvasing and follow-up care.

“Follow-up is crucial,” Wilging said. “We want practical support and connections after the event. We will help network people to the appropriate ministries and services so they can be supported.

“There will be specific ways for people to volunteer and give as details unfold. A tailored volunteer Google form will start circulating with that information.”

Jay Hill of Paradise Church said the festival symbolizes unity.

“By organizing this event, we believe the festival will be a symbol of the hope that God is stirring up and moving through our community. He is restoring us, and we turn back to Him.”