Would you like to volunteer at the Gathering and help our young people grow in faith and encounter Christ? Serving the youth of this church is a vocational calling that requires careful discernment.
There are several ways to volunteer. Responsibilities and commitments vary by category, but every volunteer must agree to a volunteer code of conduct and submit to a background check run by the ELCA.
Serving as a volunteer requires no application fee, but applicants who are offered a volunteer role will be asked to pay a $50 processing fee to ensure their attendance and cover the cost of a background check. If this fee prohibits you from serving, reach out to the Gathering office.
Key Dates
June 17, 2026 Volunteer applications open (Gathering Volunteer Corps and local)
Aug. 19, 2026 Gathering Volunteer Corps applications close
Oct. 30, 2026 Gathering Volunteer Corps applicants notified
Dec. 1, 2026 Servant Companion applications open
Jan. 15, 2027 Servant Companion applications close
Gathering Volunteer Corps (GVC)
The Gathering Volunteer Corps serve in multiple capacities throughout the Gathering. Duties might include ushering and assisting during Mass Gatherings, helping with programming, staffing the info booth or moving equipment in a Gathering venue. GVCs serve wherever Gathering planning teams have identified a need for additional help.
GVCs must be at least one year past their high school graduation at the time of the Gathering and commit to being in Minneapolis for one week (likely beginning a few days prior to the Gathering).
The Gathering will provide GVCs with:
- Per diem or catered meals while serving on-site in Minneapolis.
- Shared housing accommodations.
- Up to $200 for travel assistance.
Local Volunteers
Local volunteers support the ministry of the Gathering in a wide variety of roles. Scheduling for local volunteers often happens later in the cycle and requires some flexibility. If you live in or around Minneapolis and want to be involved in the Gathering but can’t commit to a full week of volunteering, sign up to be a local volunteer!
Local volunteers must be past high school at the time of the Gathering.
The Gathering will provide local volunteers with:
- Per diem or catered meals while serving on-site in Minneapolis.
- Access to Mass Gathering events on their day(s) of service.
Servant Companions
Servant Companions accompany congregational groups during SERVE at the ELCA Youth Gathering (June 28, 2027), guiding participants in service, reflection and engagement with communities in the Twin Cities. They may also continue into the Young Adult Gathering for faith formation, leadership development and community-building.
Servant Companions should:
- Be one year beyond high school graduation, and between the ages of 18-35.
- Be comfortable leading small groups and building relationships.
- Be adaptable and willing to share their faith journey.
- Commit to monthly Zoom trainings (starting Spring 2027).
- Be available June 26–29, or through July 2 if staying for the Young Adult Gathering.
Preference is given to young adults, though all may apply.
The Gathering provides:
- Up to $250 travel assistance.
- Meals during service and events.
- Shared housing.
- Discounted Young Adult Gathering registration ($275).
- Training and leadership support.
Young Adult Gathering Volunteers
More information will follow on volunteering for the Young Adult Gathering. If you have questions, email young.adults@elca.org.
