Lifest Sponsor Out, Fans Still In

An annual sponsor of the Lifest Christian music festival in Oshkosh, Wis., has reportedly pulled out to protest the organizers’ choice of keynote speaker but that hasn’t affected the festival’s plans.

The July 7-11 event at Sunnyview Expo Center features Jim Wallis of Sojourners magazine, a member of the White House Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships.

That choice reportedly led to radio station Q90 FM pulling its annual sponsorship because of Wallis’ alleged viewpoint regarding government involvement in religious organizations, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

However, Lifest President Bob Lenz decided against canceling Wallis’ speech after considering both sides, saying ticket sales haven’t been affected by the local controversy, the Sentinel said.

Superchick, Skillet, NeedToBreathe, Newsboys, Family Force 5, Sanctus Real and Kutless are among about 70 music and comedy acts that will perform at six stages at the venue.