The Return of the Burn

Reported By: Kate Mack

Photo Courtesy: georgefoxuniversity on instagram

The Burn is an event that many George Fox University (GFU) students look forward to each semester. Led by The Prayer Network and student leaders, The Burn not only intends to bring students closer to Christ but also allows students to meet each other and bond in ways attendees never thought possible. 

“The Burn has been a tradition that has been at Fox for at least a decade or more,” explained Alvin Lai, head of The Prayer Network. When Covid-19 hit, it became apparent that The Burn would have to be put on hold. The Burn was a longtime tradition that happened once a year and was planned by Spiritual Life and led by student leaders and interns. It allowed students to get involved in deep worship with Christ.  

After 2020, many of the Spiritual Life leaders who had experienced The Burn wished to bring it back to GFU. The Prayer Network then stepped in and made it possible. They decided to change The Burn from an event that only occurred in the fall semester into something that could happen in both semesters. “We wanted something that would welcome transfer students who could have had a nervous start to the new semester,” said Lai. 

According to Lai, students can lead worship, dance, pray, and even grow spiritually through artistic means like painting with watercolors during The Burn. This is an event that is meant to bring students to God, in any way they feel called or comfortable explained Emily Ong, a student leader who helps with The Burn. 

“There is a deep peace that comes with attending The Burn; it is truly a transformative experience,” described Ong. Students who have attended The Burn have stayed for the full 12 hours of the event's duration. Each semester, more and more students attend The Burn and, as Ong explained, these students have truly amazing experiences.