Bannister's Article in the Echo

"Ignite the Flame" Explodes With People on Blair Lawn
(Bannister did not choose this title)

At the beginning of every school year the campus is filled with events meant to promote various clubs, houses, and issues. This year, Alpha Omega, one of three Christian groups on campus, wanted to do something a little different than they have done in the past. Rather than a typical “meet & greet” they chose to host an event called “Ignite the Flame” which was meant to bring students and community members together for food, games, music, and a gospel message delivered by a local pastor. They even chose to use a survey in hope of becoming more familiar with the spiritual makeup of the student body.

The event seemed to be a smash hit all around. Natalie Cavett, sophomore, said, “I was really impressed with how many people showed up.” Justin Barnes, former president of Alpha Omega and senior at Olivet College, echoed Natalie’s assessment when he said, “I was excited to see just how much God has worked on the campus at Olivet College over the past year.” According to Barnes, the club, which has gone from 6 members to around 60 over the past year, will benefit greatly from events such as this. Given the level of involvement and cooperation from local churches and ministries, which donated an overwhelming amount of food and support, his optimism does not seem to be without merit.

The event also featured music from Oneyecry, a band which will be opening for Kids in the Way and recently took first place in Midland’s “Battle of the Bands.” Collin Willbrandt, guitarist for Oneyecry, was very impressed with the event. He thought it was a great opportunity to share Christ with students on campus as well as becoming familiar with various community ministries. “It (Ignite the Flame) was fun and was a lot more laid back than other shows,” he said, “and we got to do worship and we really like to do that because that is what we are called to do.”

Greg Jarratt, sophomore and President of the Olivet College Fellowship of Christian Athletes, summed up the event by saying, “(It was) all about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and openly sharing your faith with students on Campus.” Justin Smelter, senior and current president of Alpha Omega, agrees with Jarratt’s comments. “It was definitely to share Christ,” he said, “we are all about loving people, we are a community.”