his April at the Ignite Conference in Oswego, Illinois, just outside Chicago, our high school students from the church experienced a profound weekend dedicated to spiritual growth and discipleship. Unlike other trips which often focus on outreach and evangelism, the Ignite Conference uniquely centers on deepening the faith of those who already have a relationship with Jesus Christ. It's a special time for these young believers to take their faith seriously and seek to grow deeper in their spiritual maturity.
The conference offers an extraordinary range of activities tailored to their spiritual needs, featuring over 40 breakout groups on various topics—from understanding scripture better to exploring contemporary issues through a Christian lens. This array of options allows every student to find something that speaks directly to their heart and their personal journey with God.
The most impactful moments for me were seeing our students engage in worship. It was beautiful to witness them in prayer, singing, or in quiet reflection, truly connecting with God. These are the moments that remind us of the power of faith in action. Alongside the formal sessions, the casual conversations about faith and growth that happened during meals or in the hotel late at night were just as enriching.
Driving to Illinois with our group, enjoying fellowship, and exploring Chicago together also highlighted the trip. We even visited the world’s largest Starbucks, adding a bit of fun to our profound journey. Reflecting on this experience, I feel blessed to witness the spiritual development of our students, seeing firsthand how these moments profoundly shape their lives.
Joseph Furno
Student Ministries Pastor
