Teenagers around the Valley gathered together for worship and prayer in local and nationally sponsored youth events. Local youth ministers organized a Momentous and Power Rally held at Buchanan High on Sept. 20 from 7- 8:30 P.M.

At the Momentous and Power Rally over a thousand teenagers jammed into the Buchanan gym. The upbeat Christian rock music and open microphone prayer provided encouragement and celebration for all who united, not unlike an energetic concert.

?It was so amazing to see so many kids worshiping and praying all in one room,? Rose Walker, ?06, said. ?The worship music and video production was so well done; I could really feel God?s presence in that place.?

North West high school youth group along with North Side and Fresno Eve Free churches spearheaded the rally. The worship leader from North West was in charge of the band, lighting, video production and promotion.

?Something happens when the people of God come together and pray,? Jon Richardson, North West high school youth pastor, said. ?I believe this rally was a great opportunity for the youth of Christ to connect with other Christians and to take a stand of faith that is sometimes not easy to do.?

Campus leadership organized its own See You at the Pole (SYATP) event that was held on Sept. 21 at 7 A.M. Students came together for a time of prayer and fellowship, joining others from around the country.

?This was a chance for the student body to become more unified,? Ericlee Gilmore, math teacher, said. ?If the students truly care about the campus and their friends and believe that prayer really does make a difference they would go.?

Many students held an optimistic attitude about the event and chose to attend despite an early start.

?It was exciting to be able to pray for our school and nation,? Kristin Amerine, ?07, said. ?Although it was early I didn?t want to miss out on such an important time of fellowship.?

Not only does Fresno Christian participate in the SYATP, nation-wide event, but other public high schools through out the Valley did so as well.

?See You at the Pole is a way to support my fellow students, Brittney Huxley,? Buchanan High School student, said. ?It is important especially going to a public school to be encouraged by other Christians.?

Both teachers and students were invited to bind together as a school and individuals.

?How often are we able to gather together as a school and pray for our friends and our leaders?? Tara Albrechtson, ?06, said. ?I think that this event drew us closer to God and helped us form better relationships because we see how much alike we really are.?

For more information contact [email protected] or go online at www.syatp.com.