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Date: 8/16/2023
AGAWAM — Faith on Fire is a gathering of believers of all faiths at Sacred Heart Parish Aug. 25.
Linda Bathel, one of the Faith on Fire team organizers, said while the event is hosted at a Catholic church and attracts mostly Catholics, anyone of any faith and any age is welcome.
Faith on Fire is an evening of faith and reflection that includes speakers, song, food and, said Bathel, fun.
“The atmosphere is unlike anything else,” she said. “You can feel the Holy Spirit there — it’s so peaceful.”
The event began 11 years ago. Bathel was one of the original organizers and said historically it was hosted over two nights and her wildest hope was that they would have 500 total participants. She never dreamed it would evolve into one of the largest gatherings of believers in God in the region hosted on one night.
“We typically have about 1,000 people,” she said, adding that she feels “blessed to be part of the team when it started.”
The event is free and open to the public. Participants are welcome to bring food and water, or purchase refreshments at what Bathel said is a reasonable price.
“We encourage families to come and we want them to be able to feed a family of four for around $20,” she said, noting that the gift shop also offers cost-conscious gifts.
“We have hamburgers and hot dogs and popcorn and the fried dough is a fan favorite,” she said.
When Faith on Fire started, Bathel and the team wanted to have a place for people to gather that wasn’t a Mass.
“The vision was to have a group gathered to praise and worship God,” Bathel said. “You don’t have to be Catholic, but if you believe in God, there is something for you. You will walk away feeling better than when you got there.”
Bathel said for many participants, Faith on Fire brings them closer to God and each other. For those who do not have deep faith, it’s a way to explore their beliefs.
“Some people just sit and listen and close their eyes,” she said. “There’s a positive message for people in a time when they need hope.”
Bathel said for her, it’s very personal.
“It brings tears to my eyes — in a very happy way,” said Bathel.
Bathel called Faith on Fire “intoxicating and beautiful.”
“When you sit back and see how it’s affecting people, you feel so blessed to be part of it,” she said. “It offers a break from the everyday hustle of life. You can leave all that outside and come sit in peace surrounded by other faithful people and relax in the Spirit.”
The event draws people from throughout the region, including Agawam, West Springfield, Chicopee, Westfield, Holyoke, Southwick, Granville, Connecticut and more.
Faith on Fire is Aug. 25 starting at 6 p.m. in the field at Sacred Heart Church, 1065 Springfield St., Feeding Hills. Bathel said to bring lawn chairs and blankets. In case of inclement weather it will be hosted inside the church.
Bathel said she hopes people will join in, see what Faith on Fire is about and make connections.
“It’s never too late to go,” she said. “It’s never too late to be a part of this. There’s never a wrong time to be with others of faith.”