WILMORE, Ky. — Crowds filled the pews this weekend during one of the last weekends of the faith and fellowship takeover at Asbury University’s campus.
After a prayer session broke out amongst students at the historical Christian college, it struck the eyes and hearts of people around the nation and well beyond.
For nearly two weeks at Asbury University in Wilmore, people from surrounding cities, states and even from as far as Ireland have surrounded the inside and outside of Hughes Auditorium. The historic call for faith followers has gathered thousands in droves to be a part of the “nonstop” events.
Just decades after the school was founded, Asbury students brought prayer sessions, fasting and other aspects of revival to the historically Christian school.
The recent revival pouring across the city quickly spread over social media, grabbing the attention of people like Travis Niemann, a youth leader at Shepherd Community Center in Indianapolis.
Niemann, who works with high schoolers and other young adults, says the event is inspirational for the youth and that he had to see what it was like in person.
“I didn’t come with expectations. I saw what was happening, but I wanted God to move in and show me something new and show up and see the community of God coming together over something so simple,” he said.
Whether taking in the sunshine, singing, dancing, and or talking to a neighbor in one of the long lines to get inside, some shared one goal in common, which was seeking unity and or sharing their beliefs in an environment that felt safe.
Near the front of the line, Chris Bristow and his friend began the line for the public around 4 a.m. The pair traveled from Michigan to take part in the unexpected event.
“I see so many people from different nations in different backgrounds in one place because we all believe or worship the same Christ and because of that we are enjoying him together, in one place,” Bristow explained.
Several large lots around the main campus filled with cars, campers, and buses show the impact of the crowds. Asbury alumni and assistant girls’ basketball coach Kali Kells were helping maneuver traffic.
Kells says the revival experience is even shining a new light on this campus and that she hopes people feel welcomed just as they are intending.
“You feel like it’s at home because it’s just a general atmosphere of: you are safe, you are loved and we’re gonna take care of you now. We’re gonna have your back,” she explained.
The school has plans to conclude the events this coming week with specific timeframes for young adults and high schoolers and the public.