Ken Johnson
Montgomery County’s newest youth organization, Unite C’ville, will have its fourth major event of the year from 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Southmont High School’s auditorium. All Montgomery County students in sixth through 12th grades are welcome to attend the free concert and to hear Ken Johnson, Indianapolis Colts chaplain, speak.
Unite C’ville was organized in March. Several local youth pastors decided to form the group to help promote unity within the county church youth groups.
Tyler Smith, youth pastor at New Hope Christian Church, and Isaac Hughes, youth pastor at First Assembly, co-founded the group. The men then invited other youth group leaders to join together and the idea has quickly caught on. Early signs from the organization’s three other events has been encouraging. Unite C’ville previously hosted a concert, a comedian and an outdoor event with several food trucks.
“We have been having success bringing youth together,” Smith said. “We have had more than 15 youth groups and 300 students participate so far. We are hoping for our largest crowd yet for Sunday’s concert.”
Smith said Louisville-based The Ryan Post Band will perform Sunday. They have played throughout the country and are based out of one of the country’s largest churches, Southeast Christian Church.
Johnson has been a chaplain for the Indianapolis Colts for more than 20 years. He has become well known for giving inspirational and encouraging speakers. Former Colts Coach Tony Dungy speaks highly of Johnson for what he has done for Indianapolis’ professional football team.
“Ken has tremendous ability to effectively communicate life changing leadership principles to adults and young people alike,” Dungy said. “He has had a profound impact on the coaches, players and staff both personally and professionally.”
Smith said there are many issues in the world today that have caused division among people. Unite C’ville organizers feel it is important for the students in the community come together for events to learn about the power of unity.
Students who already have “Unite C’ville” T-shirts will wear them at school Friday to help promote the event.
Smith said Unite C’ville’s four events have been in various locations throughout the county. He hopes the 800-seat auditorium will be full Sunday.
Follow Unite C’ville on all social media platforms (@unitecville) to stay updated on upcoming events. For more information, send messages to these accounts.
