The opening ceremony of the 2013 International Christian Retail Show (ICRS) featured a big announcement from the Christian products industry's favorite talking vegetables, a challenge from a top author and an announcement of the Ministry in Action offering.

CBA President Curtis Riskey served as emcee, announcing that the previous night's offering for the Lutheran nonprofit Humanitri, active in St. Louis assisting the incarcerated, homeless, single mothers and impoverished, was more than $6,288. Sam's Club is also donating all supplies for show attendees to pack 100 bags for Humanitri.

Steve Arterburn, best-selling author, creator of Women of Faith and host of "New Life Live" radio show, issued a challenge for believers to see their circumstances from God's perspective.

"Rather than judge God based on our circumstances, we need to see things from God's perspective," he said. "The closer you get to God, the smaller the obstacles appear."

Arterburn also issued a caution to not treat a person's deep wounds superficially, such as advising a person in pain to "just read your Bible more" or "have more faith."

He also urged Christians to not shame anyone for going through a trial or for getting help in a trial.

Additionally VeggieTales celebrated 20 years creating animated children's programming by distributing birthday party hats and horns.

The launch of a new VeggieTales TV show in partnership with Netflix was also announced. Characters Larry and Bob were on hand to help celebrate.

CBA's board chairman, George Thomsen, cut the ribbon to open the exhibit floor for the 2013 show.

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