Bre Richey
Staff Writer
bre.richey@hawks.shorter.edu
On Jan. 2-4, Passion 2016 inspired students from all walks of life. The conference was founded in 1997 and their mission is to “unite students in worship and prayer for spiritual awakening in the generation.”
The global event attracted the attention of over 40,000 students from over 15,000 universities. Students traveled by plane, car, or train to praise and worship the Lord.
The conference was held in three locations featuring two in Georgia and one in Texas. For those who were unable to attend the event physically, they had the option of tuning in via live stream.
Many students were able to attend Passion 2016. The event consisted of high school seniors and college students ranging from ages 19-25. Sophomore nursing major Peyton Barthel explains about the power of faith she experienced during the weekend.
“My favorite part of Passion was being able to meet a variety of young Christians from all over the world and connect so easily with them on the common ground of faith i Jesus Christ,” said Barthel.
Thousands of people were fulfilled with the presence of God during the experience. The diversity of spokespeople kept everyone in the audience engage in the words of praise. Live bands and Christian rappers traveled between the three locations to perform and entertain the patrons of Passion.
Freshman early childhood development major Maddie Hunt describes her time well spent at Passion.
“It was incredible how without intending to, the speakers from all locations were able to intertwine their lessons; it was like a sign from God that He was present and we all felt so connected,” Hunt said.
Not only was Passion an opportunity to connect with other Christians, but a way to raise money for social justice causes. Passion paired with the END IT movement, a cause that promotes and end to human trafficking. Donations were also accepted to raise funds for an at-risk hospital for women and children in Syria.
Community groups were formed to five students the opportunity to discuss how God has shaped their lives. These groups fave people the chance to see how prevalent and wide-spread Christianity is.
Sophomore sports management major Ben McCleskey was given the change to experience God’s presence.
“Passion was phenomenal. It was such a unique experience having it in three locations at once,” said McCleskey. “Jesus truly changed so many lives through Passion and I couldn’t recommend going any more.”
Students were able to contribute $785,000 in donations. Each donation demonstrates how this generation is willing to give to a cause that they are passionate about.
Passion 2017 will be held at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga on Jan 2-4.
For more information on Passion and the Conference, visit their website at: 268generation.com/passiontours/
