This year we were proud to host with Premier Christian Events the first ever Illuminate! Illuminate is an entire Disney vacation combined with great Christian speakers and music artists. Just like all Premier Christian Events, the focus of the event was Christ; however, guests of Illuminate also were able to spend some up close and personal time with Mickey and Minnie! The event was another great platform to share with old and new friend what World Hope is doing around the world. It was a truly magical experience.
The week opened up on Sunday with a show by Jamie Grace and Mandisa, that brought the house down. These ladies sure do know how to praise the Lord. Each night our resident emcee, Bone Hampton, brought the jokes and kept the show moving. Monday and Tuesday were “Disney Days,” but there was no shortage of Illuminate exclusive events. Each morning there were worship sessions with some of Orlando’s great worship leaders and break out sessions from speakers such as Jon Acuff, John Nix, and Rachel Cruz. Wednesday night brought the concert series back and the bands Royal Tailor and Building 429 put on a phenomenal performance. Everyone from eight to eighty enjoyed the show. After a week in the parks with family, it was wonderful to gather again on Friday for worship led by Sidewalk Prophets and Casting Crowns. This show was like the fireworks at the end of a great day, a highlight for many.
World Hope was not only proud to host the event but also honored to get to share with guests three different nights on stage. Dr. Dave Janney, World Hope President, joined the bands on stage each night, sharing the vision of Hope with Illuminate guests. It was wonderful to share the progress made on Hope Academy Senior School in Kenya, as many Premier guests were on that first “Boat that built the school.” The best part for us was connecting with guests before and after shows. Hearing from people who love missions and love what we are doing, is a highlight. There is still much work to do in Kenya and guests of Premier Events really want to be involved. Illuminate was a special joy for World Hope and a week we won’t soon forget.
