I have been to 4 different CHIC experiences in my life. Each one has had a unique and different impact on me and the people around me. One thing is for sure, I will not forget any of them. Overall I think one of the best reasons for students to attend CHIC is the perspective they get from being with over 5,000 other students who want to follow Jesus with their lives. Many students know other Christians in their neighborhoods, schools, through sports teams and clubs, but there is still a disconnect between their faith and real life. At CHIC, there is something different about worshipping together with other students and getting a taste of what Heaven could be like that really opens people’s minds and hearts.
CHIC helps students see that there really is a larger body of Christ outside their own little world. It gives many the chance to see that it is actually possible for a student to choose to follow Jesus over following the crowd. If nothing else, it gives many students the opportunity to connect with God in a way they have not yet done so. In fact, CHIC is such powerful experience for all involved, they have even added a group of people whose job is to talk with and pray with all the adults who are encountering Jesus in ways they were not expecting.
The truth is there are a lot of options during summer time. Sports or band camp, a summer job, internships, SAT and ACT studying- all have value. I wonder how many have looked back on those opportunities and found them life-changing? How many have left those experiences with a profound sense of a life-sustaining relationship with their Creator? A moment and connection with God they will never forget?
I suppose the question is what has the most value to you as a parent? All I know is that every student that I have ever gone with (90+) will never forget this experience. Of all the things we do from year to year in our student ministries, this is at the top of my "must do" list. I hope you take advantage of this opportunity for your student
