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ELCA Blogs

ELCA Youth Gathering Blog

Why Synod Day?

– Ed Kay I never fully appreciated the size and scope of the ELCA Youth Gathering until I sat on the floor of the bare New Orleans Convention Center, counting out thin pieces of cardboard that would be used for...

Meeting Hope at the Gathering

– Ally McDonough The Youth Gathering was a wonderful, faith-filled experience that left me with more memories and friends than I will ever get in a lifetime. In the summer of 2015, I went to the Gathering in Detroit. Before...

The Gathering as a Turning Point

– Don Romsa As someone involved in Lutheran Campus Ministry, I was asked, “Why a Youth Gathering?”  My answer? I’ve seen firsthand that the Gathering builds community, deepens faith, inspires service, and even transforms lives. During my thirty years of working...

The Gathering Spark

– Zoe Clark Hi, I’m Zoe and I’m 19 years old. I had the opportunity to go to two Gatherings and I am so excited to share a little bit about how the Gathering changed young adult life. In New...

Hurricane Harvey: How You Can Help

The number one question heard after a major event like Hurricane Harvey: “How can I help?” As followers of Jesus, we are called love our neighbor and to serve those in need. First, thank you. On the Gulf Coast, your...

The Desire to Serve

– Michael Stadie When I have been at the ELCA Youth Gatherings, I like to look into the eyes of the participants. They usually tell me about their connection to Lutheran Disaster Response. I see excitement in their eyes, from...