You may have seen this big Banner at many of the big matches on T.V. and wondered what it is, who would bring this to a game and why?
The man who brings the banner to the matches is called “John” by the supporters. His real name is Frank Hogan, and he lives in Limerick.
Frank was born in Borrisokane, Co. Tipperary. When he was just a few months old the family moved to Limerick. As a youngster Frank played hurling with the school teams, and at an early age developed a great love for Gaelic games. His love for our national games often brought him to Thurles, the birthplace of the G. A. A., where he witnessed many memorable encounters in Semple Stadium.
The first time he displayed the John 3: 7 Banner Frank was at a hurling match in Croke Park, Dublin.
For over twenty years he has carried the Banner on trains, buses, and in cars as he travelled the length and breadth of Ireland to hurling and football matches. He is recognised and respected in Gaelic grounds all over the country.
Many people have wondered why Frank displays the John 3:7 Banner.
He does it because of a life-changing event he experienced some years ago.
Frank’s parents had six children. Like his three brothers and two sisters, Frank was baptised and confirmed. The family attended church regularly. But one day Frank was confronted with the fact that because of his sin he was separated from God. He discovered that church membership or sacraments could not reconcile him to God and save his soul.
Then on 28 September 1976 he discovered that the Lord Jesus Christ had died on the cross as his substitute, and by doing this had paid the penalty for his sins. At 11 p.m., in the front room of his home, Frank repented of his sins and asked the Lord to forgive him. He put his faith (trust) in Christ, believing that Jesus had purchased a Pardon for his sins through His sufferings and death on the cross. This Pardon was put to Frank’s account when, on that memorable evening, he invited Christ into his life as Saviour and Lord.
Frank was Born Again, and received the assurance of eternal life, and now experiences the life-transforming Grace of God in his life day by day.
God did something wonderful for Frank, and this is what motivates him to display the John 3:7 Banner. He wants men and women to experience the forgiveness and grace of God that has meant so much to him.
What is John 3:7? It is a verse from the Bible!
It reads, “Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again”.
The Bible is God’s Word and is therefore the highest authority on earth. We must listen to what God says and obey Him always. God is saying that just as you began to live physically on the day that you were born, you must be born anew spiritually in order to have a relationship with Him. Without this you are separated from God forever.
God wants to have a living and eternal relationship with you. That is why He has given these clear instructions: “You must be born again”.
