Tune up your soul in the heart of the Whites

A wide array of nationally known bands and small local groups is scheduled. All the performers are self-proclaimed Christians who use their music for worship, but don't expect to hear church hymns. These songs sound like the top hits on the radio.

The artists, including Relient K, Rebecca St. James, and John Reuben, represent a variety of music genres including rap, rock, and R&B. The performers are considered "Christian rock" because they sing about religious joys, struggles, and biblical stories, and many open or close sets with prayer.

The musical celebration is now in its seventh year at Loon. The event was developed and organized by New Sound International, an event management company that plans concerts for Christian bands throughout the United States.

"We want to bring together Christians from all walks of life," said Dan Russell, cofounder of New Sound International.

Each year, the festival starts with a candlelight ceremony. Last year after the sun set, approximately 10,000 concertgoers were given candles. The flame was passed from person to person until the mountainside glowed with tiny flickering lights and the band Audio Adrenaline took the stage. The performance electrified the reverent crowd and kicked off the four-day extravaganza. This year, popular Christian singer Steven Curtis Chapman is scheduled to start the candlelight concert.

Three large stages offer a variety of musical acts starting at noon and continuing through the evening. The most popular acts take the stage each night from 9-11. Third Day, Jars of Clay, and the Newsboys are among the nationally known bands that are expected.

Smaller stages and cafe-style venues are set up across the mountain, including a majestic mountaintop stage accessible by ski lift where rows of wooden benches are set in a clearing with a breathtaking view of the mountains. For the last few years, Holy Fire has mesmerized the audience against that backdrop.

In addition to music, there is a lecture series for adults called Soul University offering workshops, group discussion, and even religiously inspired dance classes. A youth conference offers structured daily programs and events with religious themes for junior high and high school students.