God Lights Our Way: GLOW Night

GLOW stands for God Lights Our Way. This theme reminds us that even in dark times, God is with us. His light helps us find our way when we feel lost, scared, or confused. The Bible says that Jesus is the light of the world. When we follow Him, we do not walk in darkness. A GLOW night gives us a fun and meaningful way to remember that truth.

Glow-in-the-dark games are exciting and full of energy. They bring smiles, laughter, and friendship. But they also help us think about light and darkness. When something shines in the dark, it grabs our attention. It stands out. In the same way, our faith should shine in the world around us. People should see our joy, our kindness, and our love.

This youth night uses light as a symbol. Each game and activity will help young people understand what it means to be a light. When we live with faith, we reflect the love of Jesus. We don’t hide it. We let it shine for others to see. Just like a glow stick, we are made to shine.

GLOW nights are also a chance to bring youth together. They build community and connection. When teens spend time together in faith and fun, they grow in trust. They feel seen and accepted. That kind of friendship helps their faith grow stronger. It also reminds them that they are not alone on their journey.

This night will be full of fun games, bright colors, and glowing objects. But more than that, it will be full of light—the light that comes from God. By the end of the night, we hope every young person leaves with joy in their heart and a simple message in their mind: God lights our way.

• Setup
• Games
• Reflection
• Take Home Challenge
• Printable Copy

The GLOW theme fits well with many Bible stories and lessons. One strong example is when Jesus says, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). He tells us that when we follow Him, we do not walk in darkness. This helps us understand that faith helps us see clearly. Jesus shows us the right way to live, even when life feels confusing or scary.

In the Book of Genesis, God’s first words are, “Let there be light.” Light was the first gift of creation. This shows how important light is to God’s plan. Light brings order. It brings life. It shows that God wants good things for us, not fear or chaos. The glow activities help remind us that God’s light is still shining in our lives today.

The story of the Transfiguration also connects. When Jesus is on the mountain with Peter, James, and John, His face shines like the sun. His clothes become bright. This glow shows His glory and reminds the disciples that He is truly the Son of God. We may not shine like that, but we are called to reflect His light in our own way.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “Faith is certain. It is more certain than all human knowledge because it is founded on the very word of God who cannot lie. To be sure, revealed truths can seem obscure to human reason and experience, but ‘the certainty that the divine light gives is greater than that which the light of natural reason gives’” (CCC 157). This reminds us that God’s light is strong and trustworthy. Even when we don’t fully understand, we can believe because God is true.

When we use GLOW night as part of catechesis, we remind youth that they are part of God’s story. They are not just watching from the outside. They are called to live as children of the light. This helps them understand that their faith is not only in church, but in all parts of life. Every time they choose love, they walk in the light of Christ.

To make your GLOW night exciting, start by setting up a bright and fun space. Use blacklights to make white and neon colors shine. Hang up glow-in-the-dark decorations. Add neon signs or paper cutouts that say things like “Shine” or “Let Your Light Glow.” Give everyone glow sticks or necklaces as they arrive. Keep the main lights off or low. This helps the glow stand out and makes everything look more fun.

Pick a space that is safe and easy to move around in. Clear away chairs and tables to make room for games. Use tape to mark safe zones or borders for activities. Check the room for any sharp corners or tripping hazards. Make sure everything is easy to see under the glow lights. A safe space helps everyone feel relaxed and ready to have fun.

Music is a big part of creating the right feel. Choose upbeat Christian songs that are full of joy and hope. Play them during check-in, games, and snack time. Keep the volume high enough to bring energy, but low enough for people to talk. The music should lift spirits and keep things moving. A good playlist helps make the night feel alive.

Snacks can be simple but fun. Try snacks that match the theme—like glowing jello, neon cupcakes, or snacks in bright wrappers. You can even give each person a glow cup or plate. Just make sure everything is easy to eat and doesn’t make a mess. Have water and allergy-safe options available. A snack break gives everyone a chance to recharge and chat.

Make the space feel welcoming from the start. Greet each person by name. Smile, laugh, and encourage others to join in. Use decorations and music to make it feel special. Remind everyone that this is a place where they belong. They are here to have fun, but also to be reminded that they are loved by God. Keep the night joyful and full of light from beginning to end.

Shining Even When It’s Dark

It’s fun to run around with glow sticks and bright colors, but that light also reminds us of something real. Life can feel dark sometimes. Maybe we feel alone. Maybe we’re worried. Maybe we just feel like we’re walking in circles and can’t see what’s ahead. But Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” That means we are never walking in the dark by ourselves.

Light helps us see. It helps us feel safe. When we stay close to Jesus, He lights our path. He shows us where to step next. That doesn’t mean every day is easy. But it does mean we never have to figure it all out alone.

Sometimes the world wants us to blend in. To hide our light. But Jesus calls us to stand out. Not in a loud or showy way, but by loving others, speaking truth, and doing what’s right—even when it’s hard. That’s what it means to shine.

A glow stick doesn’t shine until it’s snapped and shaken. That might remind us of how God uses even our struggles to help us grow. When life feels shaken up, we can still glow with His love. We can be a light to others even when we feel weak ourselves.

The fun and laughter from tonight are good. God wants us to enjoy community and joy. But don’t forget what the glow means. When you go back home or to school, you can still carry that light with you. Let it guide you. Let it show others who you follow.

You are made to shine. Not because of your talents or how perfect you are. You shine because God is with you. His light fills you. And when you choose love, kindness, and truth, His light shines through you to the world.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for being our light. Help us shine in the darkness. When we feel afraid or alone, remind us that you are near. Show us how to follow you and help others see your light through us. Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. When have you felt like you were walking in darkness?
2. What helps you feel close to Jesus when life is hard?
3. How can you let your light shine in your school or home?
4. Who has been a light to you when you needed it?

Let the Glow Keep Going

After a night full of glow games and laughter, you might wonder what comes next. The fun doesn’t have to stop when you leave. You can take the message with you. One easy way is to keep a glow stick by your bed. When you see it, remember that God’s light is always with you. Even in the dark, He stays close. That little glow can remind you to pray, to hope, and to keep going when things feel hard.

You can also write a short prayer and keep it in your backpack or locker. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just a few words asking Jesus to help you shine. When your day feels heavy, stop and read it. Let it bring peace to your heart. Let it remind you that faith is part of everyday life—not just church or youth group.

Another way to shine is through kindness. Do one kind thing each day. Help a friend. Say something nice. Invite someone to sit with you. Small acts matter. They light up the world in quiet ways. You don’t need to be loud or perfect. You just need to care. Let your actions speak for your faith.

You can also stay connected with others from your group. Send a message or check in with a friend during the week. Encourage each other to keep the glow going. Remind each other of what the night meant. You are not alone. You are part of something bigger—a group that wants to live with faith and light.

Let your light shine at home, at school, and anywhere you go. The world needs people who carry hope, joy, and love. Every time you choose to forgive, speak truth, or show love, your light shines. Even when no one else sees it, God sees it. He smiles when you glow. Keep shining. Keep going. You are made for this.

Walking in His Light

Looking for a bright and meaningful image to go with your GLOW (God Lights Our Way) youth event? This artwork is now available for download to use in your bulletin, newsletter, or event flyer. It captures the theme of walking with faith and letting God’s light guide each step. Add a splash of color and inspiration to your next gathering.

Perfect for Catholic youth ministry and catechesis events. Download the image today and help spread the message that we are never alone—God lights our way.

Paid subscribers may download a large copy this digital artwork (without watermarks) free of charge by clicking here. You must be logged in as a paid subscriber to access the file.

Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.

If you would like this image to be made available as a specific product (card, poster, mug, etc.) or as an extra high resolution image for personal use just post a comment about what you want and we will create a link to our online store for you.

What age group is GLOW Night for?

GLOW Night works well for middle school and high school youth. Younger children can also enjoy it with extra supervision. You can adjust the games to fit your group.

Do the games need to be played in the dark?

The room should be dim or dark so that the glow materials stand out. Use blacklights and glow sticks to help things glow. Make sure the area is still safe and easy to move around in.

What supplies do I need?

You will need blacklights, glow sticks, glow tape or paint, balloons, and other glowing materials. You will also need music, snacks, and a space to play the games. Some groups also use glow-in-the-dark chalk and paper.

Is there a prayer or reflection during the night?

Yes. After the games, gather everyone for a short reflection. Talk about how Jesus is the light of the world. Share Scripture and give youth time to think and pray.

Can this be used for catechism or youth group nights?

Yes. GLOW Night can be part of faith formation. It helps teach about God’s light, faith, and how to live with hope. You can use it along with Scripture, the Catechism, and short talks or discussions.

Do I need a large group to do this?

No. A small group can enjoy this too. Just adjust the games to fit your space and the number of people. The goal is to have fun and grow in faith.

GLOW nights matter because they bring faith and fun together in a simple way. Young people get to laugh, play, and learn about Jesus at the same time. These nights create memories that stay with them. They also remind teens that faith is part of real life—not something that only happens in church.

In a world that can feel dark or confusing, GLOW nights offer something bright. They show that God is still working, still loving, and still lighting our way. Youth need to see that joy and faith can go together. These nights help make that clear.

Hosting a GLOW night takes effort, but it’s worth it. It gives teens a safe and joyful space to grow. It reminds them that they are not alone. Each time you host one, you plant seeds of faith. And the light spreads from there.

Keep the glow going. Keep planning nights that shine with love, faith, and fun. You never know how much light one small event might bring into someone’s life.

Ready to plan your own GLOW night? Use the ideas here to get started. Keep things simple, fun, and centered on Jesus. Whether your group is large or small, the light of Christ can shine through.

After your event, come back and share what worked well in the comment section. Did your teens enjoy a certain game? Did someone say something that stuck with you? Let others know how your night went. Your story might inspire someone else to host a night that shines.