Thousands of Students Start Year in Unusual Way

More than 20,000 students from around the nation are gathering in Atlanta over the weekend to start their new year with focus on intense worship and praise of Jesus Christ.

It's the Passion 2015 Conference and is known exactly for its name. The goal of the event is to draw this generation of young adults to a real or deeper relationship with Christ that impacts them and the world.

The event's promotional video demonstrates the high energy of the conference with a passion focusing on Christ. At one point in the video it says, "...Passion is a movement where we say yes to Jesus... Passion is a movement - a Jesus movement."

It is hosted by well known pastor Reverend Louie Giglio. Worship leaders include Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, David Crowder and Christy Nockels. Other Christian artists are performing as well.

Students are asked to bring items to the conference that will help Atlanta's homeless. The conference is known for encouraging students to show their love for Christ in real ways by getting involved in making a difference for Him in their world.

A second Passion conference will be held in Atlanta next weekend and a third later in the month in Houston.