Suitcases, rolling bags, and eager retailers filled the lobby of the Georgia World Congress Center Monday morning for the opening ceremonies of the 65^th annual International Christian Retail Show. Duck Dynasty father and son duo Phil and Alan Robertson spoke before the annual ribbon cutting to open the exhibit floor.

Alan, known as the “beardless brother” of the Duck Commander empire, is a pastor and spoke from the heart to encourage retailers to stick with their mission to spread the gospel.

“There is no elitism in Christianity,” Alan said. “We are all sons and daughters of God. You are either a follower of Christ or you are not.”

Robertson said that the forces of evil have made great inroads into colleges, media, entertainment, and politics and that it is time to take those four pillars of society back through our Christian products and the personal demonstration of our faith.

“Keep doing what you are doing,” Robertson urged. “Because what you are doing is so important.”

Phil Robertson delivered a brief prayer that George Washington once gave before CBA Board Chairman Sue Smith cut the red ribbon, officially opening the sales floor.

CBA President Curtis Riskey also informed the crowd that $3013 and two pallets of food had been collected during the Sunday offering and Change a Life Festival for Atlanta nonprofit Buckhead Christian Ministry, which aids the local working poor.

ICRS continues through Wednesday in Atlanta.

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