H7 Story: "Light the Night"
Several years ago, Brant Fitzpatrick, who attends our South Greene Campus, wanted to share Christ with his neighbors and friends. Since Oct 31 can often be known for darkness, he wanted to share the light of Jesus in his community. In 2015, Brant started their first "Light the Night," a free event for the whole family. His family began inviting friends and people in the community to come to their home for a time of games, crafts, a photo area, and other activities centered around Jesus. That first night they had 20-30 people attend.
When Linda and Brant were married in 2017, she joined in on the tradition, and they have watched it grow, with new people coming each year.
Linda shared,
When Linda and Brant were married in 2017, she joined in on the tradition, and they have watched it grow, with new people coming each year.
Linda shared,
"We offer a "Thankful Pumpkin" and ask all to write on it for what they are thankful. This year I noticed a group of teens, that I didn't recognize, come by and sign the pumpkin."
This past October 31, they had around 60 people join in on the fun. They even had people trick or treating in the area stop by for a few minutes and come back later to participate in the activities.
They often have kids and parents, not only return every year, but also ask if they will be holding the event again the following year.
They often have kids and parents, not only return every year, but also ask if they will be holding the event again the following year.
First time attender, Haven Ditto shared,
"We loved Light Up The Night with Miss Linda. She shines the light of Christ and her faith in God makes her such a kind and thoughtful person. Her enthusiastic spirit makes her so caring of others. My favorite part was the different activities and crafts. It was a joy to be there!"
Haven's little brother, Colton had this to say,
"I liked writing what I was thankful for on the pumpkin. Being there made me happy and I felt joy."
Brant and Linda have been so excited to watch their own kids get involved in the preparation and be a big part of this fun night that points people to Jesus.
At the end of the event they gather the requests left in the prayer request box and pray over them as a family.
Brant said,
At the end of the event they gather the requests left in the prayer request box and pray over them as a family.
Brant said,
"It's given us an opportunity to share the light and love of Jesus on a day that Christ is traditionally not the primary focus and I love that our children get excited about "Light the night" every year!"
Everyone is invited, so mark your calendars and stop by next year on Oct 31.
