By Stephanie Jordan, Heaven’s Metal Magazine –<\/p>\n\n\n\n
August 9, 2025, was just a normal day for most of Ohio, but Circleville was prepping for a non-stop, all day music festival that would be memory making for me for sure! Ben Schlichter, the founder of Mission: Youth Ohio and Immersion Fest, told me that memories are what he hopes to create for all who attend. Well, Ben, you did it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Three stages full of incredible acts, a merch section that was inviting and a party itself with a video game tournament, an escape room, and delicious food trucks with plenty of shade were keeping everyone fully entertained. I asked Ben what prompted him to launch this festival, and he said that he had experienced one similarly when he was younger in the early 2000s. He made wonderful memories there, but as time went on and the festival closed, he realized his children weren\u2019t going to have the same kinds of experiences. This prompted him to start the journey into investigating and creating one himself. Emerge Mission: Youth Ohio\u2019s Immersion Fest 2025. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The lineup for each stage was jam packed with talent in the Christian music scene. The Cypher Circle stage hosted acts Rizzy Rob, Trustie, Justin Wallace, DrayDay, and headliners 1K Phew. Showing that Christian hip hop has glory to shout loud and encouragement to break out of unhealthy lifestyles without losing who you are seems to be the resounding message. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Main Stage started out the day with Hello Luna and Safekept. Mudhouse, Trulah, and Stephen Stanley were sharing the word in all styles of music. My personal favs, Matt and Kristan, are a husband and wife duo. They have such a powerful story to share of redemption and grace. Social Club Misfits brought so much fun energy as the headliners and closers of the evening. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Throwdown Stage was aptly named, and the line up I looked forward to the most. Contexts kicked off the day and Dreaded Dale, Voluntary Mortification, and Cleansing of the Temple kept the energy hyped. Heal the Hurt never disappoints with Trevor\u2019s endless energy and passion, but what a treat it was to hear their song Stained Glass <\/em>being performed with Tommy Green of HolyName. Then Tommy brought the Easter egg, you know that little surprise that no one expects but hopes for, when he did Fall on Your Knees<\/a><\/em><\/strong> acapella. It was a holy moment. I couldn\u2019t even film it because I knew it was holy, and onto my knees I went before my Holy God. In a moment of dust, black clothed metalheads and Holy Spirit, there was beauty, submission, passion, and grace. Memory making, indeed, for everyone in that present moment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n