August 10, 2026
East Texas Baptist University will welcome Grammy Award-winning worship leader Chris Tomlin and New York Times bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson for Ignite: Lighting the Way with Song and Truth on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in ETBU’s Rogers Spiritual Life Center.
Designed as an evening of worship, biblical teaching, and encouragement, Ignite will bring together one of Christian music's most influential voices with one of today's leading Christian authors and communicators for a night centered on faith, hope, and the truth of God's Word.
Chris Tomlin has become one of the most recognized names in Christian music, with 21 No. 1 singles, 31 Top 10 hits, more than 12 million albums sold, and over 8 billion global career streams. His accolades include a Grammy Award, three Billboard Music Awards, 30 Dove Awards—including Song of the Year for "Holy Forever"—and recognition as both a BMI and ASCAP Songwriter of the Year. As one of the most successful Christian touring artists in the world, Tomlin has filled iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Hollywood Bowl, and Nashville's Bridgestone Arena. Through worship and ministry, he continues to encourage believers around the world while also serving families through the nonprofit organization For Others, which he co-founded with his wife, Lauren.
Joining Tomlin is Dr. Mark Batterson, Lead Visionary of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., and New York Times bestselling author of more than two dozen books. Batterson's newest release, Not My Circus, addresses the challenges Christians face in a rapidly changing culture, encouraging believers to stand firm in biblical truth. Drawing from Romans 12:2, Batterson challenges audiences to reject cultural conformity and embrace lives transformed by Christ.
“East Texas Baptist University is committed to creating opportunities where our campus and community can gather, worship, and grow together in faith,” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said. “Ignite: Lighting the Way with Song and Truth is an invitation for people of all ages to experience an unforgettable night of worship and encouragement. We are grateful to share this event with the East Texas community.”
The event is open to the public. General admission tickets are $20 and may be purchased online at ETBU.edu/Ignite.
For more information about Ignite: Lighting the Way with Song and Truth, visit ETBU.edu/Ignite.