Fasting marked the beginning of KCCC's first Vision Conference. Since then, it has continued to remain a vital part of Vision Conference each year. In December of 1996, KCCC held its first Vision Conference, "Vision 1997" at Pine Summit, where the "One-Day Fast" was first introduced. Most participants were unaware that they would be fasting for an entire day at the conference, especially on the first day. Thus, the "One-Day Fast" came as a complete surprise. Despite the initial response of the students, the Holy Spirit has been preparing their hearts long before the conference; they were ready for the fast. All 80 Vision Conference participants fasted with faith and obedience. As a result they were able to come before the Lord with more humble hearts. Fasting enabled them to empty themselves completely, allowing God to pour out His grace upon them in a special way.

Fasting does not come easily for students who live in the States. Not only is fasting neglected spiritual discipline, but also we often fail to complete our fasts even when they are attempted. Vision Conference is an opportunity for you to reflect upon the past year, and begin the New Year refreshed. As you approach God in complete humility through fasting, He will bless you greatly. When you are prepared to fast with the right heart in the right manner, the blessings you will receive from the Lord will be all the more greater.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline taught and practiced in both the Old and New Testament, as well as throughout church history. God commanded fasting. The prophets, Paul, and even Jesus himself modeled fasting. Israel often sought the Lord with fasting and prayer in times of national disaster or when they were seeking forgiveness, deliverance, healing, or direction. Fasting and prayer transforms individuals, churches, and nations.

When Jonah delivered God's mercy as a response to fasting and prayer is observed in the book of Esther. When Esther and the Israelites fasted, Israel was saved from annihilation, and Hama who sought to destroy Israel was executed.

The Hebrew word for fasting literally means to "humble oneself" or to "afflict the soul." It is a powerful form of intercession that is often used as a means of restoration. We invite you to fast for the first three meals of the conference and deepen your relationship with God. Let us unite in fasting and ask God to destroy the evil strongholds in our world. As you abstain from food, seek God and break the patterns established by your flesh, fasting will reduce the power of your self-will, enabling you to experience a holy brokenness and the fullness of the Spirit's power.