Lutheran youth attend gathering

from Crossroads Lutheran Church
High school youth from Crossroads Lutheran Church in Indian Land and Amazing Grace Lutheran Church in Waxhaw attended the 2012 ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Youth Gathering in New Orleans, held July 17-23.
The group of nine youth and four adult leaders wanted to participate in a mission trip experience where they felt like they could make a difference in the world.
“It is exciting to have this opportunity to go and serve the people of New Orleans,” Vicar Josh Tucker said. “There is still so much to do to help rebuild from Hurricane Katrina. Our youth have the opportunity to represent Christ to a people who so desperately need to feel his love.”
The youth began fundraising for the mission trip last summer and by June 2012 they had raised the $16,000 needed to attend.
“I feel like I am going to get so much more out of this trip because we worked so hard to raise the money; that makes us invested in the mission we share,” said youth group member Katherine Davidson.
During the trip, the youth lived out what it means to be disciples, peacemakers and advocates of justice. They also participated in various service projects to help rebuild places in the city that are still in need of repair.
“The best thing about this youth mission trip is the transformation you see in the faith lives of the youth,” Tucker said. “Their faith is deepened, their relationship with God is strengthened and they are empowered to bring their experience back home to make a difference locally.”

photo courtesy of Josh Tucker/Crossroads Lutheran Church

This group of nine youth and four leaders from Crossroads and Amazing Grace Lutheran churches attended the 2012 ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Youth Gathering in New Orleans last month. Pictured with the group are the Rev. Dr. Herman Yoos, ELCA SC synod bishop, and the Rev. Bob Beaver, ELCA SC Synod director of missions. From left are, back row: Beaver, Shaye Gulotta, Katherine Davidson, Ryan Burnett, Kelcie Baker, Yoos, Vicar Josh Tucker, Elizabeth Davidson, Tristan Gulappo, Seth Regan, Alex Borra and Doug Galuppo; front row: Wendy Davidson, Karlye Regan and Kristi Tucker.