Introducing Ignite
On the first Pentecost day, God ignited something – the flame of faith in the risen Jesus spread like wildfire in the Roman empire, and became a movement that has passed down through millennia and spread across the globe!
As part of that movement of faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit is igniting something exciting at Luther College. Since Covid lockdowns, there hasn’t been a Sunday worshiping community based at the College. But a group of committed Christian staff and students has been praying and discerning God’s will. This has led to the formation of IGNITE – a Sunday evening, student-led worship service and a developing community that is intergenerational and invitational.
The format of Ignite is simple and vibrant. Worship music led by a student band; the Word of God and a short gospel-centered message; time to personally pause, reflect and creatively respond to what God is saying; conversation in small groups, prayer, music and blessing; and then a shared meal with opportunity for continued conversation and relationships.
Ignite has begun as a monthly worship service, but the hope and prayer is that people might find their spiritual home here and that it may develop into more than just a monthly gathering, providing regular opportunities for discipleship, community and mission. Midweek discipleship opportunities for students and families, and ways to share the good news of Jesus beyond the Ignite community, may be some of the next steps. Staff and families are being invited to consider how they might contribute to what God is bringing forth. The leadership team, with Pastor Nathan Hedt acting as a consultant, are providing support, guidance, and mentoring, while young adults are involved with discerning and shaping this vision.
Ignite is a gospel-focused, Spirit-led initiative where young adult and student leadership, creativity, and passion are nurtured. The vision for Ignite is a vibrant community that provides spaces for people to explore and encounter Jesus; experience the presence of God; grow in genuine community; encourage service and mission to the world around us; and intentionally multiply leaders and disciples across generations.
The Holy Spirit has been at work, bringing joy and a sense of community to both Christians and non-Christians who have attended. You are welcome to attend Ignite, whether you’re connected to Luther College or not. People who are curious and open to exploring Jesus but not yet sure what they believe are also welcome!
How can I participate with Ignite?
The service begins at 5pm Sunday afternoon and concludes by about 5:45pm, but the meal afterwards is an important part of Ignite! We have been concluding the meal by around 6:30-6:45pm.
The next dates for Ignite are Sunday October 20th and Sunday 17th November.
The worship service is held in Building W at Luther College (diagonally opposite Jefferies Supermarket, enter the carpark through Gate 9 on Yarra Rd).
Because a catered meal is provided, we request that people book in with attendance and dietary needs, through a free Trybooking link that is provided prior to the service.
I hope God fans into flame your faith – and that Ignite may be part of that for many people.
Photos provided by Anita Foster
