Ledyard - A young boy wore a faded T-shirt with an American eagle and “Isaiah 40:31” across the front.

The verse was written in lettering too small to see without bending toward him. Asked what his shirt referred to, he recited the verse:

”But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

His T-shirt was one of a creative array of Christian-themed clothing in evidence at GraceFest, an annual Christian fair and music festival in its fifth year.

Other shirts at festival read “Life Guard: Mine Walks on Water,” and “Amazing Grace” written in a style evoking the logo of the TV show “American Idol.” Under the design, it read, “I don't need an idol. I have a Savior.”

The festival was held on Ledyard's fairgrounds and sponsored by the Council for Christian Arts of New London County. It featured two stages for Christian music performances, food, booths representing local churches and religious organizations, a children's activity area and a prayer tent.

”One of the things I see is a need for fellowship amongst the churches,” said festival organizer Steve Eichelberg of Ledyard, explaining why he works to coordinate GraceFest, which included 11 music acts.

”Too often we have a congregation here and a congregation there, and they never mix,” he said.

Children got their faces painted Saturday, then competed in potato sack races or played with hula hoops. Adults stirred the soupy air using handheld fans depicting Jesus.

Organizers said GraceFest usually draws about 500 to the 10-hour event, but on Saturday a merciless, hazy heat kept crowds sparse, and those who turned out crowded into the afternoon shade. They sat on picnic tables or unfurled folding chairs to eat and enjoy the bands.

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