WILDWOOD – It’s no surprise that IGNITE has embraced the theme ‘World Changers’ for the 2018 conference which will be held September 28-30 at the Wildwoods Convention Center.
Over the past five years, IGNITE has changed the world. Over 2,000 churches have sent groups to the annual youth conference in Wildwood, over 4,000 participants have attended, and there have been over 2,000 commitments or re-commitments to Christ. In 2017 alone, 80,000 meals were packed and sent to Zambia in Southern Africa, over 40 young adults were provided community and connection through the ‘IGNITE Squad’ while GNJ launched ‘Next Generation Ministries’ to re-energize ministry with youth in New Jersey.
“A world changer recognized the Divine Spark which has been placed within them,” said Eric Drew, Director of Worship and IGNITE Leader. Based on Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world” the theme seeks to remind students that the light Jesus refers to is them.
“They don’t hide who God has called them to be; they claim their identity and God’s purpose for their lives,” said Drew. “A world changer has an impact on the world around them. Following Jesus changes the world for us and others.”
At IGNITE 2018, students from grades 6-12 from around the region will gather in Wildwood to claim their ‘Divine Spark’ within and be released to go change the world.
“I want students to know that they have that divine spark within them,” said Drew. “They’re created by God, in God’s image and can build their foundation on Christ, not what others say, think or do. When they do, they’ll find that God made them with a purpose, not to hide but to shine God’s light and love for all to see.”
In 2018, the IGNITE team dreams of 150 churches coming together for one weekend of worship, spiritual growth and fun. They’re seeking 50 churches who have never been to IGNITE to send groups and anticipate 1,000 students committing or re-committing their lives to Christ. They also seek to double the number of young adults serving on the ‘IGNITE Squad.’
“When students claim their divine spark and place their identity in Christ, the world changes for us,” said Drew. “We will live differently, and that will change the world. Sharing God’s light and love around us means that we spark peace, hope, and justice for our communities. We want IGNITE students to live into God’s call on their lives to change the world.”
To find out more about the 2018 IGNITE ‘World Changers’ Conference, view schedule, artist lineup, workshops, resources, and to register visit www.ignitenj.org