A derivative of illuminate, illumine is a word that means to shed light upon something. But there's also a figurative interpretation of the word that suggests that the light will reveal truth and foster a deeper understanding.

Catalyst Christian School's upcoming program called "Illumine" is a first-time community outreach event, not a fundraiser.

"It's been on the top of our minds for about four years," said Ashlee Zimmerman, Catalyst Christian School's marketing director. "We wanted to host an event that takes what's inside these four walls and introduces it to the community. It's not a fundraiser; our heart for 'Illumine' is that it is something bigger and that it can be an amazing event. We are hoping to showcase the school in general."

Formerly Lancaster Area Mennonite School, Catalyst Christian School's Illumine event will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Foundry 48, 100 W. Millport Road, Lititz. Interested individuals can register to attend by going to http://www.catalystchristianschool.org by Tuesday, Oct. 6.

"It's about faith and inspiration," said Zimmerman. "It's a way for everyone to come together for a night. We want it to be an event where people want to come out and enjoy each other's company.

"We want to open our doors to the community," added Zimmerman, "and we want people to feel the same warmth and friendly atmosphere we have here. Christ is at the center of all that we do."

The evening of Illumine will begin with hors d'oeuvres and feature dinner, but the highlight of the ticketed event will be an inspirational talk titled "Live Bright. Love Boldly." from best-selling author and the founder of the human rights nonprofit Love Does, Bob Goff. There will also be time for worship, singing, mingling and conversation.

"We want it to feel whimsically elegant," said Zimmerman, "which is centered on the fact that Bob loves balloons and bubbles. We want you to feel at home and comfortable, but we want you to feel inspired by a renewed purpose of what God has called you to do."

More than 350 supporters, community members and church representatives are expected to attend Illumine. The event is being sponsored by three local businesses.

"I love this school," said Zimmerman, a resident of Manheim. "I want everyone to understand what we are - a place where everyone relates to everyone else. I think our community is a little bit confused sometimes. When we changed our name and changed our building, I think some people thought we were bought out. Next year will be our 50th year, and something that's been around that long is cool."

Last year, that half-century-old community anchor located at 1050 E. Newport Road, Lititz, became Catalyst Christian School. This year, the school's enrollment of 348 students in preschool through 12th grade is higher than at any point in Lancaster Area Mennonite School's history.

The private, religion-based school is staffed by 60 employees, about 40 of whom are teachers. The school's motto is "Igniting Faith. Forming Leaders. Launching Lives."

"Our role in the community is to come alongside parents to help them raise children," said Zimmerman. "We are helping students to be formed, in every way. It's not just about the academics; it's also about their hearts. When we're sending them out, we're sending them out to be catalysts for the Lord."