Ohio fair features 'strongman sermon'

The religious presence at the Ohio State Fair includes Sunday church services and an "illustrated sermon through feats of strength." The Rev. Craig Eilerman, who led the Catholic service at the fair Sunday, said Catholic and Protestant services were offered, in part, to make sure the approximately 280 members of the All-Ohio State Fair Band and Youth Choir could fulfill their religious obligations while spending a full two weeks at the fair, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch reported Tuesday. However, the fair also offers some less-traditional religious attractions, including Omega Force Strength Team strongman Randy Richey's "illustrated sermon through feats of strength." The strongman said his feats, including lifting a 316-pound cross, dragging a 600-pound chain and picking up the rear end of a car, have convinced 29 people to accept Jesus Christ as their savior. "A lot of times we say [it's a] show, but really, it's a crusade," he said.