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"An Acquire Taste?" A review of ATF From Der Chang 
“Let your voice be heard,” was the theme of 2008 Acquire the Fire event. The two day Christian event/concert took place at the famous Target Center stadium in downtown Minneapolis on February 15 and 16th. ATF is a unique event targeting adolescence packed with well known speakers on topics that are relevant, skits performed by people their age, and music by some of today’s most popular Christian artists. Since 1991, Ron Luce, founder of ATF, has passionately continued to host such events as a means to raise a generation of young people to seek after God and challenge them physically, mentally and spiritually.
This was my first year at ATF, as well as my youth group, and we were eager to be a part of it. The almost packed stadium was comprised mainly of teenagers along with some parents and youth leaders. Something worth applauding ATF for was the different types of learning styles they’ve incorporated into the event. The environment and stage itself is sufficient for visual learners. Auditory learners can enjoy the live concert and testimonies from the speakers. Through PowerPoint, diagrams, and note taking, tactile learner’s needs are met. And not to fear, those who are kinesthetic learners are encouraged by Ron’s message to use whatever media is available to them (art, video, myspace, music) to voice out their faith, just as the theme boldly proclaims. For the music lovers, like me, two talented bands, Unhindered and Stellar Kart, were featured at this event. Unhindered, a well established five member band from Atlanta, Georgia lead the crowd in more contemporary music. I took in the surrounding from time to time. There were three large screens on stage which provided lyrics and visual images of the band and audience. The stage lighting of course added to the concert atmosphere and excitement. Unhindered’s performance seemed flawless. Each transition from one song to the next was well organized. A variety of fast and slow tempo songs were picked for different motives. “Salvation is Here,” allowed the band to energize the crowd and “No Other Name,” invited them into an intimate worship, which they responded well too. Young people throughout the stadium were engaged in a meaningful worship with their hands lifted, eyes closed, and singing passionately. The overall sound was pleasant to the ears and skillfully crafted with beautiful harmonies. During a few songs, Ben, the lead guitarist and vocalist shared their purpose as a band, ministry, and how touring with ATF has influenced them.
Popular for their pop/punk rock style, Stellar Kart, a group of guys in their mid twenties from Phoenix, Arizona also delivered an impressive adrenaline pumping show. As experienced artists, they definitely know how to interact with the crowd, since a large majority was jumping and on their feet the entire time. Each band member’s talent was showcased and although loud, the instruments blended well together. I looked towards the front stage and desperately wish I was part of the mosh pit. That was the most exciting place to be at any concert. My favorite part throughout Stellar Kart’s performance was when they sung their hit single, “Me and Jesus.” The lyric, “someone loves you even when you don’t think so, don’t you know, you got me and Jesus,” spoke words of encouragement and hope to those feeling burned out, unloved, and alone. Looking around the stadium, it seemed like everyone knew the song.
With much praise for this event, there are a couple downfalls as well. While Ron’s message was motivational and insightful, it was too lengthy for a teenager’s attention span. I noticed numerous people moving about unable to remain still. In addition, the flow of the event seemed lagging at some points. The concerts were spectacular however; my only disappointment was how short Stellar Kart’s performance was. They only appeared once and sung about 5 songs while Unhindered was featured on both days.
Amidst the few shortfalls, ATF still held up to its expectation, hence the reason why it’s still around! Although geared towards Christian teens, no matter your age, you may be surprised to gain new insights and experience worship in a different way. As I walked out of the Target Center, I left feeling empowered by the message of Ron to unashamedly declare my faith in such a way that would speak loudly to the media, internet, and my peers. This just may very well become an acquire taste for years to come.

This is a great message that will indeed encourage you in your faith. May you be blessed.
Max Lucado tells us how to Face Our Giants.
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