Society

“Christian” Rock Concerts Used to Bring Youth to Churches

Youth ministers from traditional churches in the world are increasingly planning “Christian” music festivals and rock concerts to encourage youth to become more religious. Other youth events such as violent multiplayer video game parties, “skateboarding for the Lord” or “Fear Factor” ministries are also used to attract teens to become more religious.

In Canal Fulton, Ohio, one such concert is called Alive. More than twenty-thousand youth attend this annual event. According to the event’s website, the concert’s purpose is to “bring individuals together from various churches, denominations and backgrounds to enjoy four days of music, worship, teaching, camping, swimming, and recreational fun.”

Across the United States, millions attend these music festivals, which are used to increase the youth attendance of religious events. Youth ministers know that teens of various religions, not only professing Christians, are also interested in these events.

Many church youth group organizers are concerned that the only purpose for these concerts is to make a profit. But due to the numbers of youth attracted to Christian concerts, it makes it appear that they are becoming more religious.

At the majority of these concerts, alcohol is banned because the environment is intended for “worship” and not partying. Those who host such events are striving for a more controlled atmosphere.

Among teens, aged 13 to 17, about 80% consider themselves religious. For example, one teen from Indiana quoted by CNN said she considered herself a Christian, but was also involved in the “hardcore scene,” including heavy-rock music, tattoos and piercings, calling into question what defines a Christian lifestyle.