Thousands of young and faithful meet in Atlanta, D.C. for Passion 2018

Thousands of young people attended the faith-based Passion 2018 Conferences in Atlanta and D.C. Credit: Brooke Bennett

Thousands of young people attended the faith-based Passion 2018 Conferences in Atlanta and D.C. Credit: Brooke Bennett

More than two decades ago, Louie and Shelley Giglio started a Bible study in Texas as a way to reach college students interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Christianity and God.

That movement has exploded into the Passion conference, which brings together thousands of the young and faithful.

Passion 2018 will be held at two sites in metro Atlanta -  at Philips Arena and the Infinite Energy Center -and The Anthem in Washington, D.C. through Wednesday.

Passion 2018 is a gathering of 18- to 25-year-olds and their church and campus leaders.

An estimated 32,000 people will attend the conferences.

Related:

Atlanta faith leaders work to bridge the generational divide.

This is the second time in the Passion conference history that events have been held at three different locations and the first time ever in Washington. D.C.

Speakers include John Piper, Louie Giglio and Priscilla Shirer.

Tens of thousands of young people are meeting in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. for Passion 2018. CREDIT: Nicole Elianna

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There will also be performances by Crowder, KB and Andy Mineo.

Passion 2018 is  a Christian-based gathering of young adults typically ranging in age from 18 to 25. This is the 21st year for the conference.

“Passion is more than a conference,” said Pastor Louie Giglio in a statement.  The Giglios lead Passion City Church, which has two locations in metro Atlanta. “Passion exists to see a generation leverage their lives for what matters most. For us, that’s the fame of Jesus and the privilege we have to amplify His name in everything we do.”

All three venues are sold out, but those interested in following the conference can register for an online experience.

Students will arrive to serve as well as worship. In the past few years, attendees have given some $8 million to fight modern-day slavery through “The END IT Movement,” assisting in awareness, prevention, rescue and restoration. While ending modern-day slavery is still a focus of Passion 2018, students will also have other opportunities to impact the lives of others locally and around the world.

In addition, Passion attendees will donate  thousands of backpacks of supplies for children in Houston who lost everything during the flooding of Hurricane Harvey.