Written by: Gillian Fraser
Article source: JOY! Magazine
Impact Radio’s Zinhle Twala recently interviewed Chidima Craig and Brett Younker from Passion Music, offering an inspiring glimpse into what South Africans can expect from the Passion 2025 tour. With worship gatherings scheduled for January 31st in Tshwane and February 1st in Cape Town, the event promises to be a powerful time of unity and worship.
A return to Loftus Versfeld
Reflecting on his last visit to South Africa, Brett Younker recalls an unforgettable moment at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in 2016. “Right before we played, there was a rain shower that many said was a sign of blessing. It cleared away, and we had a powerful night worshipping Jesus and proclaiming the Gospel,” he shared. Now, nearly a decade later, Brett is excited to witness how the Passion Movement continues to evolve in the region. “It’s amazing to see how God is building His Kingdom all over the world, and it’s an honour to be part of that in South Africa.”
Unshakeable hope
Known for their globally resonant songs, Passion Music aims to deliver a clear and uplifting message during the tour: “Jesus is King,” Brett stated. “In a world that feels shaky, people are searching for hope. Our hope in Jesus never fades or fails. That’s the message we want to bring – a message of unshakeable hope in Jesus.”
Inspired by worship
Passion’s latest album, Call of Heaven, embodies this mission. Chidima Craig described a defining moment during its creation at the Passion Conference in Atlanta. “At Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with 55 000 young people gathered, we sang ‘Agnus Dei’ during the final session. For 20 minutes, it felt like heaven touched earth. That spontaneous worship moment captured the essence of what we hope to bring – authentic worship that connects us deeply to God.”
Worship that transcends cultures
South Africa’s cultural diversity adds a unique dimension to the worship experience. “Music is a universal language that transcends cultures,” Chidima noted. “Our songs aren’t just for Americans or our church – they’re for the world. The message that Jesus is Lord unifies us, no matter our background, and we hope to celebrate that unity in South Africa.”
Uniting churches through music
The Passion Movement, led by Pastor Louie Giglio, is known for fostering unity across churches and communities. Brett emphasised the role of music in this mission, “Music transcends denominations and styles, allowing us to worship together as one body in Christ.”
Special guests inspire
Joining Passion Music for the 2025 tour are Tim and Demi-Leigh Tebow, whose connection to South Africa adds a special touch. “Tim and Demi-Leigh are close friends of Passion and have been part of many events. Their testimonies of what Jesus has done in their lives will inspire many,” Chidima shared. Combined with powerful preaching from Louie Giglio, the event is set to be a transformative experience.
Shaped by Passion
Reflecting on their personal faith journeys, Brett and Chidima both expressed gratitude for being part of the Passion Movement. “It’s humbling to know that God doesn’t need us but chooses to use us,” Chidima said. “It’s a reminder that we’re part of His bigger story.” For Brett, returning to South Africa is more than a professional milestone. “It’s not just about what God will do in your nation, but also about how He’ll transform us through this experience. Seeing God’s work in South Africa will inspire and challenge us, and we’re excited to be part of what He’s building globally.”
Event Details:
Pretoria: Loftus Versfeld Stadium
Date: 31 January 2025
Time: 19:00
- Cape Town: DHL Stadium
Date: 01 February 2025
Time: 19:00
Passion South Africa 2025 is an all-ages event. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit iTickets South Africa or the website: www.passionsouthafrica.com
This article is featured in the January issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: https://joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-january-issue-2025/
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Date published: 09/01/2025
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