We are....

Closing Worship NOLA 2012

35,000 sharing communion. You can't even begin to explain it. But this morning was an awesome way to celebrate the last 4 days. 4 days where we learned to be disciples, and peacemakers. We learned the importance of justice in our world. We learned to LOVE LIKE JESUS. We leave spirit filled wanting to be the change in the world that we want to see.........

We leave tired! Ha ha. But FLY leaves challenged to "be the change!"

Last night at the dome!!!!

Our last day of the gathering was our justice day. Our focus was service projects through the New Orleans area. We worked with ARC and sorted recycled beads from their parade to be resold to raise monies for ARC. At first we wondered why this was a project. We learned about what ARC does and the rich history of New Orleans parades and beads, and how their recycling was important. It all made sense. And with our Minnesota work ethic, we sorted 5000+ pounds in about 4 hours!!!

The evening was a wild night! Song! Dance! Speakers! All faith-filled and Spirit led. Highlighting the finale was a concert by SWITCHFOOT!!!! AMAZING!

I want everyone to know again how blessed we are to have the youth that we have! Their energy, thoughtfulness, excitement and faith were contagious. We were so proud of them! Many Spirit filled moments!!!! Many faith journeys had life changing experiences! God is good!!!!!

We want our lives to make a difference on this world because Jesus calls us to this.

Recap of Day #3 of the gathering

Yesterday was a full day! All of the gathering is divided into three colors and your day's theme is based on what color you are. Our day was PEACEMAKING. We started with morning worship that was high energy. From this we moved down to an interactive center to learn about the many different ways we can bring peace in our community and world. 8 football fields long filled with so much!.....Not to mention mini golf, bumper cars, zip lines, basketball courts, dodgeball, four square, and tinkle town. (you will need to ask about this! Ha ha).

The afternoon was filled with some free time and RAIN! The groups relaxed, explored, tried amazing foods, and many played in the rain! :) it really was fun! Honest!

The evening brought us back to the dome! Amazing Speakers on peace, hope, and empowering the youth to be the change in this world. In their friendships, schools, towns, and beyond. A saxophone solo of "Jesus Loves Me" was a definite God moment for all! Rachel Kurtz closed the evening with her amazing voice and a mass cast production.

#3 night at the dome

We had to sit higher tonight. But the view is amazing!

Flood "watch"...... Are you sure!???

4 inches in one hour! We still had fun! Check it out!

FLY gives $400+ to help ELCA World Hunger 100 wells challenge. Google it! :)