Speakers from the youth organization Circuit Riders gathered on Jan. 22 at 7:00 p.m. inside the Acalanes Performing Arts Center to spread the message of Jesus Christ to the new generation through songs and games. The event was open to families and students from high schools across the Bay Area. "I'd say the best way to put the mission is that we're just trying to spread the good news of the gospel, and show that Jesus died for us. He was resurrected, and he cares about us," senior Alex Vasicek said. The Acalanes Faith Club has a sizable following within the school. "I would say it's part of my life, to be honest. Everything I do, I do it with faith. So I would say it's just part of who I am. I think that's it," senior Dominicky Santiago said. Faith Club members point out the importance of welcoming anyone to participate in their events. "You can see it growing; just how many people are exposed to [the club]. I also see it in regular classes. I'll hear some kids saying, 'Hey, are you going to Faith Club?'," senior Jonah Rivera said. The main goal for the club, however, is not the number of attendees. The group hosts events like this to spread awareness about their cause and why it is important to them. "It's mainly to just get the gospel [out there], and have as many students here as possible. I also think it's a space for already existing people of faith to have community at a secular school," senior Johnathan Roth said. Throughout the night, many people came together to talk about their experiences and understanding of faith and religion. "Faith to me, is having a belief in something I can not see somewhere. Something I can go to when I'm lost, alone, sad, anxious, depressed, or any sort of emotion. ... I [often] want to go to something higher than me, and that's my faith; I believe in Jesus," parent volunteer Marni Rivera said. Many students enjoyed the event and found a broader religious community at the event. "It's kind of like a family outside of the church and outside of my school friends," Santiago said. |