I am always amazed at the number of exhibits at the
Interactive Learning Center during the ELCA National Youth Gathering. 2018 was
no different. Youth have so many things to choose from for activities.
If you enjoy music there was karioke, performance, and
music writing areas. Sports people could do high ropes, dodgeball, bumper cars,
as well as areas for basketball, soccer, and other sports. Arts and crafts
people have numerous opportunities for creativity. Advocacy and issues around
justice concerns abound. Lutheran colleges are represented. There are
relaxation zones and prayer corners. There is, literally, something for
everyone.
And all the while church groups are trying to attach
items to backpacks and items of clothing. Usually they are clothes pins with
decorations and the name of the church. Others do key chains, flat Jesus, or
pens with church names. Trinity-Crookston kids gave out compimentary sunflower
seeds, a donation from our local Synopta plant!
This diversity also plays through in our Mass Gatherings
in the evenings. The speakers come from a plethora of cultural and life
experiences. One dance number included volunteers and used the entire arena
floor in their production. Our emcees are made up of young people with diverse
backgrounds. Musicians include a stage band, solo performers, a charismatic DJ,
and we ended the Thursday evening gathering with a large brass and percussion
band. The youth are loving all these aspects.
In many ways, the Gathering reflects the world in which
our youth live. Issues are complex and often difficult to process. Everyone has something to contribute to the betterment of the whole. But the
message remains the same. JESUS CHANGES EVERYTHING! Thanks be to God.
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