STORIES FROM THE GATHERING

On Sunday, August 25, the high school youth and adults who attended the ELCA Youth Gathering this summer hosted a “Taste of New Orleans” brunch for the congregation to share stories and say thank you for all the prayers and support they received. There were various types of delicious New Orleans cuisine served that the group enjoyed during our time there, including jambalaya, bread pudding and beignets to name a few. The kids who could, some of our group had show choir rehearsals, shared their pictures, stories and takeaways from the experience.

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​Here are some highlights of those stories:

What inspired you?
“I loved how all the different groups interacted walking/standing in line. Felt like everyone was connected.”
“I was inspired by watching the kids get to know each other better, work together, and have fellowship with each other.”

What was your biggest takeaway?
“My biggest takeaway from the trip is that no matter what your story is, God loves you and has a purpose for you.”
“With all the difference and complications in the world - God prevails.”

Where did you see God?
“I saw God many times. I saw Him working through the lives of the 16,000 youth, and I also felt Him working through my own life, especially when I needed strength throughout this trip. I also felt God tell me to stand up for what I believe in.”

We weren’t able to share a video recap with the group, so I will share that here if you want to know more about what this group heard and experienced. What you should know is that we came back changed, and this group is excited to be church together. 

To include other high school students in the excitement and community that was built over the summer, grades 9-12 will be gathering on the second Sunday of the month in the multi-purpose room following 10:00 am worship for High School Hangout- Food + Faith + Friends. Our first hangout is Sunday, September 8, at 11:00 am. I look forward to a fruitful conversation about what this group might learn and do together in the coming months. We ask for your prayers as we continue to listen and discern where the Holy Spirit is leading us in this ministry with youth.

Peace, 
Ellen Rothweiler, Minister for Learning