Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke in Houston for public event

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- An internationally known Evangelist who claims to have raised a man from the dead is bringing his message to Houston. Reinhard Bonnke spoke at BBVA Compass stadium Friday and is planning a second event Saturday.

Despite the rain hundreds of people stood in line outside Friday to be a part of the much-anticipated gospel crusade weekend. People from as far as Wisconsin and Kansas flew to the Bayou City to hear the pastor speak. More than 15,000 attendees are expected to see him.

The German-born pastor is a superstar in Africa. Many believe he is a healing Evangelist. In one YouTube video from 2008, a man who said had been blind for 25 years could see after Bonnke worshiped over him. Frances Perz came hoping for her own miracle.

"I've had seven strokes," Perz said.

University of Houston sociologist Dr. Luis Salinas says some miracles are all mental.

"The power of the mind is just absolutely incredible," Salinas said. "Do I believe in miracles? Yes I do. But I'm not sure other human beings can control those miracles."

While many may focus on the reported miracles, Bonnke and his team say their focus is winning souls to Christ.

"You have already heard ... Houston will be saved. America will be saved.

The pastor, who resides in Africa, is on tour in the U.S. Houston is just one of four cities is visiting, and many are glad he picked the Bayou City.

"Houston needs good news. The gospel means good news. I'm very excited about the opportunity we'll have this weekend. Planning to be here both nights," one Houston resident said.

More than 400 churches across the Houston area from all denominations have been promoting this event for months now.

Tickets are free. The second event begins at 7pm Saturday.