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Reflame: Darkness Ends Where Christ Begins
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12 Catalyst is a weekend where Black college students gather to encounter Jesus, grow in faith, and respond to His call. In 2025, we’re coming back to the fire with a theme that speaks directly to this moment: Reflame. We know what it’s like to feel stagnant, discouraged, or disillusioned by what’s been passed down as “faith.” But Jesus still says, “Come, follow me.” He is the Light in our darkness—the same God, offering new light. This year, we’re returning to Him: not to cultural Christianity, but to real discipleship. To transformation. To the fire that only He can spark. This is more than renewal. It’s revival. The darkness ends here. Christ begins now. Let’s Reflame. |
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Main Speaker
Pastor Ayo Omopariola Originally from Nigeria, Pastor Omopariola grew up in Wichita, Kansas and Fort Worth, Texas before settling in Houston in 2008. He came to faith in Christ during his college years at the University of Houston, when the gospel became real and personal to him. Now, he serves as the lead pastor of The West Church, where he leads the mission to transform the Alief community with God’s love by making disciples of Jesus Christ. In addition to preaching and shepherding, he embraces his role as the “chief encourager” of the church. Known as a place for rich, Christ-centered relationships, The West Church reflects his heart for community and connection. He shares life with his wife and best friend, Amaechi, and their three children—Ezra, Simeon, and Eden. Fun fact: he's an undefeated cup stacking champion. And yes, the family is happily pet-free.
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Emcee
Michelle Smith Michelle Snith is the Area Director for InterVarsity in Central Texas. Over 20 years on staff, she’s led both BCM and multi-ethnic student ministry in Florida and Texas, helped shape regional and national conferences, and served behind the scenes at Urbana. Michelle loves creating spaces where God’s Word feels real and relatable. As a mixed-race Black woman, she’s passionate about bridging differences and building community. She’s a licensed minister, certified life coach, and lover of all things fun and beautiful. Michelle lives in Bastrop, TX with her husband and their adorable dog.
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Worship Leader
Pastor Chantel Varnado Pastor Chantel Varnado is a Spirit-led leader, wife, mother, and mentor devoted to raising up voices of purpose, identity, and spiritual authority. Called to ministry at 12, she has served for over two decades and was commissioned as a prophetic voice in 2021. Alongside her husband, she pastors RE//FORM PLACE in Chicago and also leads as a certified life coach, author, entrepreneur, and board member for various Kingdom and community initiatives. As Founder & CEO of Kingdom United Collective, she champions authentic worship, intercultural unity, and prophetic sound, while boldly confronting injustice and calling the Church into true Kingdom expression. She also serves as Lead Ambassador for The Guard: God’s Global Battalion, mobilizing prayer and prophetic warriors worldwide. A gifted preacher, singer, and songwriter, Pastor Chantel creates spaces for all cultures to encounter God, heal, and rise into their divine calling. With a deep passion for women and emerging leaders, she is committed to equipping a generation of spiritually grounded, emotionally whole, and culturally aware Kingdom influencers.
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