Aquire the Fire

Aquire the Fire (or ATF) is a scheme to dupe teens and their parents out of money by hosting stadium events across the country. It's touted as part G-rated Woodstock (complete with third rate Christian rock bands), and part educational empowerment seminar for youth. Tickets range from $50-$100. However, they are held over 3 days in major cities, so each group attending has to make arrangements for transportation, food, and lodging, sending the cost per attendee over $150. The events are packed with countless merchandise booths selling accessories for the modern Christian teen, $7 bracelets, $13 dollar WWJD necklaces, and $25 hoodies featuring the ATF logo. Not to mention high priced study bibles and super expensive teaching modules for youth leaders. The events themselves are designed to whip teens up into a frenzy with loud music, pyrotechnics, and light displays. The youth are told that there is a war going on for their minds, that media and culture are trying to get them hooked on drugs and sex. Then leader Ron Luce challenges them to be spiritual warriors and stand up against corporate indoctrination, while his minions rake in money from concessions, tickets, merchandise, and donations all from the pockets of teens. Mission trips and leadership camps, both offered by Ron Luce, for a price. Mission trips are thousands of dollars, with the teen having to raise the money. And former attendees of the Honor Academy, describe a cult like level of control and indoctrination.