Over 700 students on the Appalachian State University (ASU) campus made public commitments to live for Christ on October 13, following a worship rally held in Boone. The event, part of a growing movement on college campuses, saw approximately 100 students publicly baptized in plastic-lined truck beds directly after the gathering.
The rally took place at the Holmes Convocation Center on the ASU campus. Speakers at the event included Tonya Prewett, who founded the ministry organization UniteUs, and Jennie Allen. Immediately following their presentations, around 100 students publicly professed their faith through baptism in the improvised facilities on site.
This worship event was organized and led by UniteUs, a ministry organization that conducted its first worship rally in September 2023 at Auburn University. The gathering at ASU is part of an evangelistic movement that has steadily gained momentum across various college campuses, characterized by the proclamation of the Gospel, lively praise and worship music, and numerous salvations and baptisms. UniteUs states its team works closely with local churches to help disciple new Christians from their events, aiming to support them in becoming faithful followers of Christ.
Franklin Graham commented on social media regarding the event in his hometown of Boone. He noted that on October 13, 700 students decided to follow Jesus Christ after hearing the Gospel, and about 100 were baptized. Graham expressed gratitude for each participant and called for prayers for their growth in faith and to be strengthened in the Lord.
Students who attended the worship rally shared their experiences on social media, reflecting the impact of the event. One student described it as "nothing more beautiful than watching people publicly declare their faith through baptism." Other students reported it as a "life changing night" and "an amazing opportunity to gather together to worship our Heavenly Father." One student was heard expressing enthusiasm, asking if such an event could be held every night. These sentiments highlighted a significant spiritual experience for many attendees.
The Gospel-driven movement that UniteUs participates in originated three years ago on college campuses in the southeast, aiming to rally young adults through worship and a call to repentance. Since its inception, UniteUs events have expanded beyond the traditional "Bible-belt" region of the South. The ministry organization has conducted rallies at institutions such as Ohio State University, Purdue University, Georgetown University, Pepperdine University, and the University of Miami, with hundreds of students committing their lives to Christ at these various locations.
UniteUs has scheduled upcoming worship events as part of its ongoing outreach. The ministry's next rallies are planned for the University of South Alabama on October 27 and Belmont University in Nashville on November 10.
