²Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. ⁴Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4

Rock The Cross News

Traversing Night of Joy Unscathed

By Martha J Fry

Walt Disney World will stage its 26th annual "Night of Joy" on September 5 and 6. For the first time, this year's festivities will be held at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

If you're reading this site, you're probably already a fan of Christian rock music. But even die-hard headbangers can get frustrated when throngs of teenagers and unfamiliar surroundings create havoc and confusion - and you miss the one act you were intent on seeing.

Fear not, we've got the tips you need to make this truly a Night of Joy.

COME PREPARED: Expect the forecast to be hot and humid - afterall, it is Florida and it is September. It's still Hurricane Season, so some rain may drop in as well. Wear cool, comfortable clothing and consider investing in a rain poncho. (The park sells hooded ponchos for those who fail to heed our warning.) Flip-flops and "wheelies" (wheeled athletic shoes) may be in vogue, but they may not be the best choice for this event. There is a lot of walking involved and, if it does rain, walkways can become slippery. Choose comfortable walking shoes, preferably with closed toes and heels.

DEVISE A PLAN: Artist show schedules are at the park entrance, along with park maps. Familiarize yourself with the location of the three music venues and the paths to get you there. If you have a must-see favorite, plan on arriving at the stage at least a half-hour before the scheduled performance.

HAVE SOME FUN: Rides are open, but not all are open until 12:30 a.m. Check schedules when you enter the park. Also, Fastpass machines may not be operating during Night of Joy, so anticipate long waits at the most popular attractions. Disney does offer "child swap." One parent stays with a child while the other rides; they then "swap" child duties so each can ride without having to wait in another long line.

PLAY BY THE RULES: Disney World is experienced at handling large crowds. Security and hospitality personnel flood the areas around music venues to keep traffic moving. Follow their instructions and everyone avoids delays. Moshing and body surfing are prohibited for the safety of all guests. Park staff may remove you, without refund, if you are engaging in behavior that is dangerous to yourself or others.

Remember - the idea is to participate in vertical praise, not focus on the horizontal. Views can be obstructed when thousands of excited worshippers converge on one spot. If it doesn't look like you're supposed to stand on it, don't stand on it.

BE AN EARLY BIRD: "Night of Joy" often sells out. If you want to go, get tickets in advance. Late-comers should call first to make sure tickets are still available.

THE DETAILS:

WHO: 16 contemporary Christian artists, including tobyMac, BarlowGirl, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, RED, and Rebecca St. James

WHEN: 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Sept. 5-6

WHERE: Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios (Formerly MGM Studios)

ADMISSION: $44.95 in advance for one night or $49.95 at the gate; $75.95 for two nights in advance

Group rates are available for 10 or more, call for more details or visit www.nightofjoy.com

MORE INFORMATION: 1-407-934-7639; disneyworld.com/nightofjoy

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