There are sports clubs, art clubs, and study clubs at school, but the Revival Club is different. It is where kids can talk about religion, make friends, and find support.
Senior Sara Ledia established the club after she realized that it can be lonely being a Christian in high school. She wanted to create a club where students would be able to find other people who share the same beliefs as them and also invite others who are interested.
Ledia said, “I wanted a place where I could combine my faith and school life. Somewhere to have friends and fellowship with other believers.” Ledia’s desire to combine her faith with school brought her to start her own club, Revival.
Revival Club meets each Thursday, as meetings usually start with a short prayer before members talk about what they have been reading in the Bible. Students share their thoughts, ask questions, and listen to what others have to say. The goal, Ledia said, is to make everyone feel welcome and respected.
Leader senior AJ Elis said the club is welcoming to everyone, no matter what they believe. Elis explained, “Even if you’re an atheist, you can come and ask questions, and we’ll answer respectfully. We don’t push anybody or judge. We just want to talk and learn from each other.” Typically, clubs only target certain students, unlike the revival club, where everyone is welcome, no matter what they believe in or who they are. Revival club is for everyone.
At the first meeting, more than 25 students were present. Ledia said it was great to see so many faces and that it made her realize how much people needed something like this. Ledia said, “It was amazing to see students from all different backgrounds come together.”
The club has become more than just a religious discussion group; it is a family. Members check in with one another, pray with one another, and lend a shoulder when a member is going through a difficult time. For Ledia, it is that community that makes the club unique. Ledia said, “It can be lonely in high school when it comes to religion. Having people who get you and are supportive makes all the difference.”
Being a part of the Revival Club has also made the leaders grow up. Ledia stated it has made her stronger in her faith and more confident talking about it with others. Elis agreed it has changed him as well, he said, “It’s made me more bold and open about what I believe, even outside of school.” Revival Club was established just last year, but has already made an indelible impression among students.
