As the world prepares for the annual Collegiate Day of Prayer, Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, is hosting a special week of spiritual events to help students unplug from distractions and deepen their connection with God. This global movement, rooted in a 19th-century tradition, has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years as campuses across the globe report a renewed hunger for spiritual revival.
Unplugging from Devices, Reconnecting with the Divine
Beginning on February 20th, Liberty is encouraging students to participate in a monthlong "Digital Rest" initiative, which challenges them to unplug from social media, entertainment, and online shopping. The goal is to create space for prayer, reflection, and deeper relationship with Christ.
"In the last two years, there's been so much research that demonstrates the real effects of prolonged social media usage on mental health," said Vice President of Spiritual Development Joshua Rutledge. "If you want to combat that with the truth of the Gospel, then you'd better figure out how to get through that wall."
Preparing for the Global Day of Prayer
This week of spiritual renewal at Liberty is part of the university's preparations for the upcoming Collegiate Day of Prayer on February 26th. This global event, which has been observed for over 200 years, will unite believers worldwide in prayer for college campuses and the next generation of leaders.
"College campuses are more than centers of academic learning - they're pivotal arenas where worldviews are shaped, leaders are formed, and the future of society takes shape," explained Ashley Eure of Finishing the Task. "What happens there impacts not only individuals, but communities and nations."
A Spiritual Awakening on Campuses
The renewed focus on prayer and spiritual disciplines at Liberty reflects a broader trend of spiritual awakening sweeping college campuses around the world. CBN News reports that students are increasingly hungry for deeper connection with God, leading to powerful encounters and life-changing transformations.
What this really means is that the next generation of leaders, innovators, and world-changers are positioning themselves to receive a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit. As Liberty and other institutions facilitate this spiritual renewal, the implications could be profound - not just for individual students, but for the future trajectory of our society as a whole.