Fifteen youth from Rejoice Lutheran Church in Clearwater recently attended the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Junior High Youth Gathering in Willmar.
Sponsored by the Synod Youth Organization, the theme of this year’s gathering was “You are the Light,” based on the Bible verse Matthew 5:14 which says in part, “You are the light of the world.”
The two-day gathering was geared towards young people, and included mass gatherings, worship, singing, spiritual growth, relationship building and just having fun. Evening activities included dancing, games, henna tattoos, swimming and service projects. Over 600 sixth through ninth graders attended this year’s event.
Rachel Kurtz was the weekend’s musician and keynote speaker. Based out of Minneapolis, Kurtz is a gospel-activist and successful singer/songwriter who shared personal testimonies of both tragedy and triumph with the youth.
“It [the gathering] was a fun way to make friendships with other churches,” said attendee Bethany Timm. “I liked building relationships with everyone.”
“I really liked when Rachel [Kurtz] sang,” said Grace Miller. “It was a very spiritual moment for everyone there.”
Faith Miller talked about the story Kurtz shared about her sister’s home burning down and how God had provided for the family afterward.
Part of the gathering involved youth board leaders sharing their faith stories, which the group from Rejoice found influential.
“It meant a lot to hear from people who had actually been through those experiences,” said Jessica Timm. “It was easier to relate because they were around our age.”
Charity Timm added, “You didn’t feel like you were being lectured to.”
The gathering was a fun and meaningful event for the Rejoice youth, and they encouraged everyone who has the chance to attend an event like it to do so.
“I feel like it’s a good experience,” said Charity Timm. “Even if it doesn’t seem like your thing you make connections socially and with God.”
“You get closer to God and your friends,” said Jessica Timm. “And be with people who believe like you do.”
