Don't Stop Believin'

What an exciting past three days at the NYG! Phil and I apologize that we didn't update the blog, but honestly, sleep came first, and that was still limited!
The past 3 days have been a whirlwind of events, concerts, mass gatherings, and general exploring of the city.

SATURDAY
Saturday was our first Mass Gathering, and for the kids who were first timers at a NYG, finally got a glimpse at just how many green backpacks there are wondering the streets of New Orleans. I think when some of them first heard that we're here with 25,000 youth and chaperons, they didn't comprehend what that number meant, after the first mass event they began to realize just how big this gathering is!

SUNDAY-LISTEN
Our first full day at the gathering started off with Bible study, then consisted of exploring the convention hall, and checking out a couple speakers. Tops ranged from 'No Strings Attached: Is God a Puppet Master or a Master of Poetry' (Rev. Bill Younker) to 'Questions You Can't Ask Your Mama' (Craig Gross) As a group, we ended the day at the convention center by going to a concert of a gathering favorite...Lost and Found!

MONDAY-LIVE
Monday started with a bright and early 9am Bible study. After that we went to the past of the have.ll that talked about ways to show your faith through the way you live. They also had arts and crafts, like pine cone buddies(they probably got the pine cones from the UP, I haven't seen many Pine trees down here...), watch for pictures, as the creations included Bert from Sesame Street, a penguin, a skier, and Pastor Hulke.

TUESDAY-LOOK
Today started off with another early Bible study, then a break for breakfast, the back to the convention center where the fun and craziness began, in the LOOK portion there was a couple halls just filled with different fun activities to do. Among the favorites were laser tag, huge trampoline, inflatable obstacle course, and Rock Band!

Tonight was in my opinion the climax of the gathering, the mass worship event. What an amazing experience to worship and take communion with 25,000 other Lutherans, how often do you get to do that? The worship service included a dance troupe, band, and choir all made up of high school students, and some of the were absolutely incredible!
It's hard to believe that the gathering is pretty much over and tomorrow morning it's time to pack and load up the bus again. After one final mass event we'll be on the road again!

Speaking of packing...I'd better get going!
~Jacki