Western churches are
preparing for the Ignite rally in the Asheville Civic Center April 30-May 2,
culminating several years of regional youth rallies.
Ignite rallies started in
2006 out of concern for the spiritual health of youth in Maggie Valley,
according to organizer Ricky Mason, pastor of Maggie Valley’s First Baptist
Church.
A special event at the
Stompin’ Ground Dance Hall elicited “phenomenal response” Mason said, with
average attendance of 1,500 and with 300 professions of faith recorded.
Since the initial meeting,
14 other Ignite events have been held at Lake Junaluska, Western Carolina
University, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, Andrews, Brevard, Mars Hill College,
Spruce Pine, Asheville and Marion. More than 2,000 youth and adults have made
professions of faith.
This movement is building
toward the largest event so far with an area wide Ignite three-night rally to
take place April 30-May 2 at the Asheville Civic Center. More than 7,000 youth
and adults are expected each evening as churches from all over bring their
church families and unsaved friends.
Mason said the planning
committee has set a goal of 2,000 professions of faith. The event is
interdenominational and is free.
Evangelist Clayton King, who
has preached the Ignite events, will be the primary speaker, with Carlton
Cartee providing music leadership.