Based on Philippians 2:1-8, the 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering will look and feel like a servant school.

At the center of the Gathering program is a deepening of our awareness of God’s call to servanthood, and a deepening of the basic Christian practices by which we live our baptismal calling to servanthood throughout life.

Programming for the Gathering will follow a gospel-centered service learning model that includes intentional preparation, action, reflection, and celebration.

Go to the Gathering Theme & Program page to learn more about this summer '09 youth ministry service opportunity. We hope you'll join us in New Orleans with thousands of other young Lutheran youth -- children of God called to serve with compassion, energy, and excitement!

SPECIAL GATHERING UPDATES
	DONATE HAIR FOR CHEMO PATIENTS The Interaction Center in New Orleans will have a donation station for hair that is 8-10 inches in length. Come to the IC with clean, washed hair and a licensed hairstylist will give you a stylish haircut and send the the hair to an organization working with cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy treatment.
	Online training for youth ministry leaders The ELCA Youth Ministry Network, in partnership with the Gathering, is inviting you to participate in an Online Training Initiative in preparation for the 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. It's free for adults bringing youth to New Orleans.
	Getting Ready materials to go out in January 2009 The Getting Ready materials and Bible studies will be sent out monthly via email beginning in late January 2009. These resources are an important part of preparing your group and leaders for their experience in New Orleans and what it means to serve in the mind and manner of Christ.
	Are you Renting or leasing a bus to get to New Orleans? Consider subcontracting your bus to the Gathering while you are in New Orleans. This could help reduce your rental costs with your bus company.

Gathering Home Timeline Talking Points (FAQs) New Orleans Links