In July, nearly 2,000 people gathered at Indiana Wesleyan University for Momentum Youth Conference. This was the first year since 2019 that Momentum held a full-scale, in-person conference on a college campus. Last summer Momentum hosted shorter on the road conferences in four cities: Lititz, Pa.; Akron, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; and Goshen, Ind. This year’s conference was held July 19–24 in Marion, Ind.
Each morning students had the opportunity to attend a power track of their choosing on topics that interested them. They engaged in discussions on things like biblical creation makes good sense, engaging with God, men don’t cry and other lies we believe, sports and ministry, holiness in my sexuality, and becoming a ministry professional.
Following the morning power tracks, everyone gathered for the main morning session. Sessions kicked off with games led from the stage, announcements, and ministry highlights. A time of worship — at times an intimate moment with Jesus and other times a crazy dance party — was led by Jordan Howerton and the Collective band.
Each session had a different main speaker. Pastors, author, ministry leaders, and business professionals shared their heart while helping students see their need to be Rewired for Jesus, the theme for the week.
A wide array of afternoon options were available. Students formed teams and competed in dodgeball, volleyball, and basketball tournaments. Outdoor activities such as water balloon roulette, food messtival obstacle course, and water kickball helped students beat the heat and stay cool. Open play activities included Hantis, cornhole, gaga, Spikeball, board games, disc golf, and racquetball. There were several art options for those wanting a more calm afternoon such as canvas painting, string art, and t-shirt tie dying.
Many groups utilized the free afternoon for off-campus ministry. Some groups served at local organizations in Marion like the YMCA, a cultural arts center, a community food pantry, and a senior citizen center. Other groups ventured into nearby town like Wabash, Muncie, and Winona Lake.
Following the evening main session, youth groups gathered for a time of fellowship and reflecting on the day. These small group discussions allowed students to share what God was teaching them throughout the week and connect with other students and leaders from their own church who could walk with them on their journey upon returning home.
Throughout the week, over 200 students accepted Christ for the first time. Several hundred others made decisions to reengage their heart with Jesus or commit to pursuing a specific calling on their life.
See a highlight video from the week here and see photos from the week here.
Next year’s youth conference will be July 18–23 at Indiana Wesleyan University. Find more information about Momentum on their website here.
