On 8 and 9 March LZ7 and Saintz performed two concerts in Rushden as part of their Illuminate Tour. The initiative to bring the tour to the area was started by a couple of dads from Whitefriars Church in Rushden, when they saw LZ7 at the Big Church Day Festival in 2022 and experienced the response young people had to their music.
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Over 600 young people attended across the two nights with the concerts carrying a clear gospel message. The bands are hugely popular with young people, communicating in their own language and interacting across all social media platforms.
Of the young people who attended on the first night it is believed that 75% had no known previous connection to a church or youth group but when asked by the band, more than a third indicated that they were choosing to follow Jesus.
The event was more than just about the one night though, with a focus on encouraging young people on their journey of discipleship. Attendees were encouraged to engage with an Instagram account run by Light Trust in which LZ7, Saintz and other Christian artists regularly post devotionals and testimonies. The page also has a ‘connect’ section where young people can engage with local groups equipped to disciple new believers.
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For both concerts there was also a desire to reach the whole family, with a dedicated parent’s area with a live-stream of the concert available to watch so parents could hear the concert and gospel message. Those parents will be invited to attend an Alpha course planned for later in the year.
The concerts were a huge success with the credibility of LZ7 and Saintz really helping to engage young people who might not otherwise attend a church setting. The organising group were thrilled saying “Bringing the Illuminate Tour to our part of the world has been incredibly supported by all the local churches and especially blessed by God”.
Further information on the Illuminate tour can be found here