You’re officially on the road to the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering! Whether you’ve led a group before or this is your first time, the key to a great experience is a solid foundation. Here are the first five steps to prepare you — and your group — for success.
1. Sign up for the gNews.
Stay in the loop for all things Gathering. The gNews is your go-to source for the latest updates, tips and reminders, straight from the Gathering team.
2. Visit the Academy.
The Academy (formerly gLearn) is your home base for training and resources — everything from budgeting and registration to travel tips and devotions. Learn from Gathering veterans who want to help you make this experience smooth and meaningful.
3. Follow the Gathering on social media.
Get inspired, connect with other leaders and stay in touch between updates. Social posts from the Gathering include deadline notifications, looks behind the scenes and stories to remind you why this experience matters. The ELCA Youth Ministry Network Facebook group is not an official platform of the Gathering or the ELCA, but many youth ministry leaders use it to disseminate information and share questions, resources and ideas.
Follow us!
Facebook: fb.com/youthgathering
Instagram: @elcagathering
TikTok: @elcagathering
4. Add key dates to your calendar.
Don’t miss a beat! From registration windows to payment deadlines, mark your calendar now so nothing sneaks up on you.
View Key Dates<add link>
5. Connect with your regional representative.
You’re not in this alone! Every region has a Gathering rep — a youth ministry professional who has walked this road before and is here to help.
They can answer questions, share best practices and connect you with other leaders in your area who are also preparing for the Gathering. Whether you’re looking for travel tips, fundraising ideas, other congregations attending or just someone who knows how to plan a trip this big, your representative is a great first stop.
Find Your Regional Rep <add link>
6. Breathe. You’ve got this.
You don’t need to have it all figured out today. The Gathering is a journey — and you’ve already taken the first step. Take a deep breath, trust the process and remember: you’re part of something bigger. Because of you, young people in your community will have a transformative faith-formation experience. Thank you!
