Raise the Torch

Some 650 young men and women from the greater Atlanta, Georgia, area took part in a two-night dance festival themed Raise the Torch. It was a reminder for the youth to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places. The youth from 24 wards and branches performed 13 dance numbers to a cheering, packed house of 1,500 people on each night. Attendees were encouraged to do the “can-can” by bringing a can of food to help “stomp” out hunger. Nearly five barrels were filled with donations for the local food bank.

Many of the teens talk about the close bonds they forged with the youth from their own ward and also from the other units and stakes. Beehive Elizabeth Hall recently moved to Roswell, Georgia, when dance rehearsals were under way and was excited to take part. “Getting involved in the dance festival enabled me to get to know a lot more of the youth quickly,” she says. Others, like Michael Reid, 16, of the Webb Bridge Ward says he learned not only how to line dance, but he “met some great new friends.” One of the most amazing occurrences, however, was that 12- and 13-year-old boys actually danced!

Prior to the performances, the youth were able to raise their torches by taking part in service projects throughout the community. All told, the youth provided more than 4,500 hours of service. Upcoming Beehives and deacons have already started asking when the next dance festival will be held so they can participate.

Photographs courtesy of Todd Westberg