While in New Orleans, the NOLA Team became guest bloggers for The Lutheran's Jesus Justice Jazz blog. In addition, there was an article in the September issue of The Lutheran describing the event and sharing the views of some of the youth that participated, including a member of our team, Ashley Seenauth.

Click here to see the article on all of NOLA, "Shaped by 'Jesus, Justice, Jazz' "

Click here to see the article, "What you said".

Back Home...

We have all arrived back home again. I think many of us are resting from our trip still (and Janeane is celebrating a birthday today! Happy Birthday Janeane!!).


Here are some highlights from our trip that we haven't gotten to post about yet:

Saturday evening we were greeted by the Mayor of New Orleans, C. Ray Nagin. After this, Bishop Hansen read another letter from President Barack Obama. Here is a video from another participant:



While in the Interaction Center, we got a few chances as group shots. Here is one of our goofy ones from outside the Thrivent Builds trailer:

And while in New Orleans, we were welcomed by many people in many ways. Some locals would stop us on the street walking and others would say something quick as they passed by. There were signs throughout the city welcoming us and this billboard as we exited the airport (photo from gatheringpics.elca.org):

I am sure you want to learn more about our trip -- We'll be sharing more videos, pictures, and stories during Our Saviour Lutheran Church's worship services:

Sunday, August 16th (8:30am, 10:00am, and 11:30am)
Wednesday, August 19th (8:00pm).

NOLA trip ends

Dear Church

Today was the end of the youth gathering we just had a final morning
service that was like a regular Sunday worship except for the
different bands and the the concert-like feel. I think it could have
been more exciting -- like the opening one was. Overall this trips was
good it had its ups and downs but i had a good time meeting new people
from all across the world and the country. But I missed home and i
cant wait to get back. I still miss you Shawn and family.

Love Janeane

Closing Worship

Presiding Bishop Mark Hansen presided this morning for worship with
communion. He spoke to us about what will happen when we come home,
how we have changed New Orleans and let New Orleans change us. This
afternoon we will be seeing a little more of the city that has
welcomed us before returning to the hotel with plenty of time to
prepare and rest for our trip home in the morning.

Spoken To

Once again today we were woken up to the great upbeat service of
agape. Though Agape isn't a real pastor, today he spoke from the heart
and made me believe he was a pastor. Though we have so much fun at
Agape services don't be misinformed; the Word of God is still passed
right on through. Today's sermon was on finding your way and turning
to God when all else fails and learning to forgive. Agape sermon
consisted of telling us on about his childhood in which his mother
divorced his father and taking him. Though Agape hated his father for
never being there and was so tired of carrying this hatred that he got
to his knees and prayed. In doing so he was able to call his father
and forgive him. In talking about this experience he was able to put
it in such a way that almost put me in tears. Me -- cheerful Mark who
is blest with both parents yet somehow I found my eyes watery. Even in
writing this blog I still get water to my eyes. How could this
ordinary HIP HOP rapper preach about something completely opposite
from my life and yet I felt more close to this simple man's life then
I've ever felt to someone else. Though I have the utmost respect for
pastors and appreciate all they go through to become pastors, I think
Agape would give them a run for their money.

I started this blog to talk about my day and yet somehow I ended back
at this non pastors sermon and actually its been on my mind all day.

I know I should go back to my day but I hate people that post long
things so... Bye

--Mark

Visiting the City

Today we did several activities. We went to two morning worships this
morning, one at 7:30am and then 9:00am. The 7:30 worship was hip hop
worship with Agape while the other was calm and more traditional.
After that, the group split in two. My group decided to go visit a
cathedral and the city a little more. We also rode in trolleys for the
first time, gettig to look at NOLA homes. After the entire group met
up at the convention center and we went to learning centers. One of m
favorite learning centers was Jesus in movies. We saw how people
portray Jesus and how it might be different from our own views. After
he interaction centr we went to evening worship at the superdome.
Tommorrow is the last day and I enjoyed my time spent here in NOLA.

Here's the Finish Line!

As we wind closer and closer to the end of the gathering tomorrow
morning, I've started to think about home. For the past week, I felt
like I've been completely submerged in a seperate place. And while it
is good that I've been able to solely focus on being here while here,
it can also be a bad thing. Several times today, we were told about the
importance of bringing back the lessons, wisdom and experience that
we've learned home where we can spread the good news of Christ. When
I do eventually get home on Monday, that's when it's all going to
settle in -- but for now, I'm going to enjoy my final hours here.
There's a dance awaiting me 27 floors down. Peace.

--Ashley

After an amazing start to our day with the hip-hop worship service, we headed to the convention center for another worship service which was very traditional.

After the service we had a break and so I ask if we can go to the Aquarium - it was awesome.

We had lunch in the food court and then we headed back to the convention center for our learning experiences. We focused on "peace like a river", and "dying inside" - the global impact of HIV/AIDS". We had a pretty relaxing day which we needed.

After the convention center, we grabbed a fast dinner and headed to the superdome for our final evening service. It was great, we had wonderful guest speakers who were very talented and inspirational. I really enjoyed it. I don't want the gathering to end but I also can't wait to get home.

Power Struggle

Today started off with us going to Agape's hip hop worship in the morning, which I enjoyed. We then went to another service immediately after - a very traditional one. I found it boring and dry, and when compared to all the other options that we had before us, it felt like a waste of time. Because we weren't allowed to go back to the hotel, we walked the streets of New Orleans, hot and sweaty, until some of us decided to go to the aquarium, which was fun.

We then went to our learning sessions, where we went to a workshop about the AIDS crisis in Africa. One of the activities they had us do was write a letter to the people of Africa about the epidemic. I was apalled at the poor quality of most of the letters - an abundance of misspelled words, poorly constructed sentences, and incredibly insensitive statements... It seemed that many of the people writing them were either ignorant or just plain stupid.

Evening worship wasn't really anything too special I thought, except for an amazing violinist named Amanda Shaw.

Almost to the end

Dear Church,

Today we went to 2 sevices this morning. The first was a very interesting hip hop service that was very exciting, the second was a  
traditional service which was a little boring compared to our sevices back home. After, we had a few hours before we had to go to the next  activity so we went site seeing. We got to see some cool sites. After, we went to our learning activity. We went to a meditation one which was very peaceful. Then we went to and HIV one that was good but people who wrote letters were realy ignorant and just made no sense but others were very well thought. Then we went to night service which was the same as the other services at the super dome. Overall today was a pretty relaxed day. P.S. I still miss u Shawn and family. 

--Janeane

African pen pal

Kadin wrote a letter to the people of Africa sympathizing with the AIDS crises.

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Servant Life Day

Today we woke up at 5:00 AM in order to be on time for the bus to do our servant life projects. It was a 45 minutes bus ride, so we got to catch up on a little bit of sleep on our way.

As we arrived in the Covington area we were greeted by the city Mayor. Our project was to clear sidewalks which was covered with wild vines and bushes and dirt. My job included cutting trees, pulling out weeds and vines, raking leaves and shoveling dirt that covered the sidewalk. We worked from around 8:30AM to 1:30PM but had half hour lunch break and other water breaks when we needed.

I was really excited to do community service work, helping the people and making a difference.

We ended the day at the superdome with an amazing service which included inspiring speakers that told their stories of hardships and not being able to fit in. We also got to see the band "Skillet" performed for the first time. The crowds went crazy, it was totally amazing!

Service Work

Walking to the super dome at 6:00 in the morning and brushing my teeth
on the streets of New Orleans; These are the obstacles that you face
when you wake up late.

Yesterday was our service day and boy was it fun. We met new friends
and cleaned up some of the worst streets of Louisiana. Separated, we
couldn't have possible tackled the challenge but together we blew
threw it. Like a machine working in perfect sync everybody was doing
their part. There were people that picked up the trash and people that
cut the vines and bushes and other people doing other numerous things.

Though this might seem like hard work, the hardest part of my day
yesterday was waking up.

--Mark

ServantLife!

We stayed busy clearing the sidewalks of Covington, LA.

Day 6: Servant Day

This was my favorite day of the week. Today we did our servant day
activity. It was tiring at first but after lunch I was set and ready
to work. The task performed today by our group was to clean sidewalks
covered with trees, large plants and hard soil. In the sun, it was
pretty difficult and every half hour we'd take water-breaks. At first
my job was garbage duty. A few of us had to clean any teashthat we
found. The second job I had was to rake leaves, remove soil, cut roots
and a few more things. We went around doing this from 8 am to 1:30 pm.

Worship today was also great hearing Spencer West and Michel
Chikwanine. Both of their stories were touching. Both stories involved
a bad thing in life turning into a good thing.

Skillet performed at the dome. I really like there music and I am
going to put some of their music on my iPod. Tommorrow is the last
full day and I look forward to it.

One more thing. I haven't become as brown as I thought I would.

Showing where we're from

Our Day of Service

We finally got a little dirty today as we traveled to the town of
Covington. There we cleared up sidewalks that were completely
overtaken with overgrowth. Armed with clippers and saws we attacked
the the bushes and vines with full force. If you've ever seen how
poorly I've cleaned my room, you'd never believe how much of a good
job I did. But don't tell my mom. The work was fun and worthwhile, but
not as much as I expected. As we worked through the day, we recieved
many thanks from the townspeople who genuinly appreciated our efforts
and time.

Don't stop believing...

A little impromptu kareoke while waiting...

The climax of the trip

Hey Church,

We had so much fun doing our servant life project. Some people painted
things but we cleaned the side walk. We cut bushes and picked up
trash. I felt a great feeling of satisfaction like I made a
difference. After we finished it you could see the sidewalk and the
natural beauty. I had a lot of fun and p.s. I still miss you Shawn and
family.

Love Janeane.

>

Celebrating God's Unconditonal Love.

Yesterday we started the day with a hip hop worship service, it was amazing to see a different way of worshipping God. I really LOVED it.

After woship we headed to the convention center. It was our day to learn about the environment- our purpose for being here in New Orleans. We watched a 30 minute video about environmental issues facing New Orleans after the devastated Katrina.We were then guided to the interaction center where there are many fun things to do - I got a free foot massage. It felt really good because we've been walking a lot since we arrived.

The evening service at the superdome was awesome as it was on Wednesday. The service was about God's Unconditional Love for everyone.

Off to ServantLife!

With only a slight rough start, we got to the Superdome by 6:30am and
got on our bus. We are traveling 45 minutes to our project site.
Currently we are going over the 24 mile bridge -- we can't see any
land on the horizon, only water on all sides.

Our work here has been on the news. We are the largest convention to come to New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina. City officials said that the work we will be doing in three days of the gathering would have otherwise taken 3 years to complete. Check out a local article here:
http://www.wwltv.com/local/stories/wwl072209cbcity.68f400a1.html

Day 3 without Febreze. Still had a Good Day.

Kanye West singing at church?
That's what it felt like this morning in worship.

It wasn't actually Kanye West. It was Agape, a hip hop worship leader
leading Church in a completely different way. From the crazy beats to
his gospel rays (which actually made sense). He put God's word into a
hip version and was able to still keep the basic aspect of Church.

Another interesting thing today was that I almost got adopted. At the
convention, a South Dakota church played basketball with me and
treated me like a fellow South Dakotin. I even got invited to lunch.
Even though I didn't go, it was still cool.

Today was good!!

--Mark

Hoping for a better day !!!

The best part of each day since I arrived here in New Orleans is the services and activities - which is basically the purpose and reason I ever wanted to be here.

Yesterday started off well but ended unexpectedly disappointing and discouraging but nevertheless I thank God.

We've been up quite early today and I am hoping for a better day.

As we walked the street this morning to the bus half the group were way ahead of the other half.

The funnies thing was Mark brushing his teeth on the street because he work up late.

The next thing - Jeneane trip and fell but thank God she is fine.
We just arrived at the site and our way to do the best part of the trip - community service!

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Day 5: All You Gotta Do To Change The World Is Love

Today was a day full of activities such as hip hop worship with Agape
and visiting the Interaction Center, but the best part if the day was
worship. During worship the message was love. We can use love to
create change. One of my favorite speakers was Viola Vaughn. She had a
very inspirational speech. She devoted her life to education and is
now the executive director of 10,000 Girls, an education and
employment program for village girls in Senegal. Viola said how her
love for education and helping people made her who she is today. A
band called Group1Crew ended today's worship with great music that I
plan to listen to again in the future. Worship was beautiful and I
look forward to tommorrow because it's servant life. Everyone should
be getting brown and pink tommorrow.

A Welcome Change

Today we woke up early to go to see Agape's Hip Hop morning worship
service. I can honestly say this was the first of the worship services
that I genuinely enjoyed. Although it's easy to see David Scherer is a
very religious guy, he's not super serious and grim when he speaks.
He's very funny and entertaining, and he gets his message across
without being too preachy. In fact, that was one of the things I liked
most about him -- he didn't really preach. He simply spoke to you. And
being lucky enough to talk with him a bit afterward, he's just what
you would expect -- very cool, very friendly, very down-to-earth, very
genuine. That was easily the best part of the day for me.

--Kadin

The trip is coming to it's high point

Dear Church 
I'm having a great time here. Thanks for helping us to get here, and to experience this event. We had a hip hop morning service that was very energetic. We also went to the interaction center were we discussed our service life projects and played games and other fun activites. So thanks Church and I miss you Shawn. 

Love Janeane

Hello Minnesota!

Today was our day to spend time in the interaction center, a huge place full of many different activities, booths and stations (think mega church carnival) that sought to help us learn a bit about our purpose here while throwing in a bit of fun.When we first visited the interaction center yesterday, we were overwhelmed by all the things we could do. I did everything from racing go-karts with Kadin to learning about different Lutheran colleges and organizations.

While I was thoroughly entertained throughout the day, my highlight would most definitely be enjoying all of the people that I got to meet or "visit," as they say in Minnesota (There are herds of them here and I love love love their accents!). Barely anyone was hesitant to smile and ask where we were from. As the Gathering continues to become more "personal," I have been developing a better understanding of the people who make up the congregations of the ELCA beyond our synod, one of the reasons that I chose to attend the Gathering.

Each gathering, people choose to bring in small gifts to give to random strangers or new acquaintances. So far I've received tons of wristbands, buttons, candy, a clothespin and a bookmark. These gifts, called "swaps," are often exchanged in return for something else, but if you have nothing, a simple smile will do. The little action of giving to random strangers is a beautiful one, reflective of the unifying spirit of the gathering.

Thursday Evening Worship in the Superdome

We're here and ready for our second night of worship with 37,000 other people.

Don't forget to join us with the live webcast at www.elca.org/gathering and check back later for some reflections on our day!

Hip Hop Worship !!!

So ... this morning at 7:30 AM we were all ready for the hip Hop Worship at the Grand Ballroom, Sheraton New Orleans. It was a unique and dynamic form of Lutheran worship led by hip-hop worship leader David Scherer (Agape). David is just full of energy, excitement and passion for what he does...

All of us had a great time !!!

Jesus Justice Jazz at the Superdome - last night's worship !!

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The youth thought of Pastor Bob when they saw this:

Building a House

Mark built a house at the Thrivent Builds area. We took a tour an learned about how Thrivent pairs with Habitat for Hummanity to provide housing for people in need. We walked through a trailer museum that showed us the potential living situation of someone in need as well as what could be done for them. We learned ways to be able to help people by getting involved when we return home.

Painting Patchwork Peace Panels

These canvases are going to be made into tents for people in need of shelter in Darfur.

Guitar Hero

There was a Guitar Hero booth set up. Kadin got a chance to play (as
did Maria). Kadin drew a small crowd as he played. He was awesome!

The Trip Continues

Dear Church,

I had a cool day. We ended MYLE and I really didn't want it to end. I really loved learning about the different races. After we ended MYLE we went to the convention center where thy had games and other fun and interesting activities. It was very interesting to hear how we could help buy affordable houses for people who were homeless or living in bad conditions. After the convention center we went to the youth gathering opening worship and it was really huge. I had a lot of fun with the music and songs. Finally we went to a fun dance party that was very funny.

In the middle of the party, I got a message from Shawn (Mark's brother and my cousin) telling me to tell everyone we miss him and all of our family and to blog about just how much we miss them. So, we miss you Shawn.

Love, Janeane

The Gathering Begins

MYLE has finally come to a close today with what I thought was the best sermon of the week by Karris Golden. She asked us to consider what the soundtrack of our lives would sound like and made a good point in saying that when we do self-evaluate ourselves, we tend to self-censor because we are afraid of what others may think. But at the end of the day, the things that should define us most and the little ones that changed and challenge the way we live life. Her sermon pushed me to think more about my personal soundtrack, and how different it would sound with the retrospect that comes with old age.

Our trip has turned in a new direction as the actual gathering began with opening worship, which was absolutely MAGICAL. I've heard previous youths speak about how great it was but you just don't know or understand it's greatness until you're here for yourself and you can feel what it's like to be with so many young people, gathered and unified by religion. The music was beautiful, the speakers were beautiful, the pyrotechnics were beautiful but more of that could hold my attention as much as the 38,000 people in such a large space, we were a large force.

Exploring my True Heritage

Today was a very important day -- today I was made by my group members, an honorary Guyanese person. I was educated in the plethora of Guyanese ways of speech and in return, I taught my group members some commonly-used white people phrases. Then after the Gathering's opening worship, we went to a dance, where I showed them the basics of white people dancing. It was an incredible exchange of culture -- I feel truly multi-ethnic.

I must say I was glad to see the end of MYLE. I wasn't getting anything out of it, and I'm eager to get to the service day. Doing volunteer work is the whole reason I wanted to come back to New Orleans.

-- Kadin

Group Shot!

We're in front of a window over looking the Mississippi River in our
hotel. A beautiful view.

Day 4: Jesus, Justice, Jazz

Closing MYLE with the theme of soundtracks of life made me think about my soundtracks of life. One that comes to mind is my sister's laugh. I think her laugh is weird and quick and loud -- I sometimes make fun of her.

After we ate tasty fried cripsy (yes cripsy not crispy) chicken at popeyes and had some fun at the convention center where there was tons to do such as sports, games and music.

My favortie part of the day was Youth Gathering opening worship. The feeling to be there was amazing and being there listening to speaches and songs made me feel something special.

I look forward to tommorrow's activities and worship.

I tried to Incorporate febreze into the title but couldn't think of it.

37,000 youth, 2 parents a piece that comes out to approximately 74,000 Lutherans give or take. I was flabergastered (heard a girl on the elevator use that and thought it was cool). A whole SUPERDOME! Not just a dome, but a SUPERDOME filled with youth. I never knew there was that many youth but now I know.

Today we met someone who should be on a comedy central special, but the Lutheran version -- Karris Golden was hilarious and deep. Once again, I was flabergastered (cool even a second time). The message she was sending was about how your life story isn't what you pick and want to show people, but all the embarassing things as well.

---Mark

Interaction Center

This bicycle was set up to use our peddling power and convert it to electricity for lightbulbs and a blender. We were able to experience just how much energy it took to make things work -- things we take for granted.

Tattoos

Check out our new tattoos from the interaction center...

Being apart of the solution !!!

Today was yet another exciting day - our morning worship service was absolutely wonderful. It was filled with music, dance, preaching and even baptism by the ELCA Bishop!

We then visited the convention center where there were many many fun activities which we all participated in and enjoyed.

At the convention center there is the interaction center - a huge place when one can jump off a thirty-foot tower harnessed to a zip line to even get tattoos ... Hmmm - we all did ... The interaction center is designed for all to develop an awareness and passion for serving in the manner of Christ.

As the evening came - we took the streets with hundreds of others to the SUPERDOME.

Only a few years ago the site of the Superdome was the site of what was the largest toxic waste zone in the world and the site of the worst natural disaster to hit the U.S.

Our first Youth Gathering worship service was this evening in the Superdome - a gathering of more than 38,000 people. It was filled w rockin' music, videos and inspiring speakers that touched my heart - the service was just AMAZINGLY beautiful.

Inspiring speakers were:

--Liz McCartney - co-founder of St. Bernard Project - which started just after Katrina and serve to quickly rebuild homes and re-settle people into the neighborhoods of St. Bernard Parish.

--Marc Kielburger and his brother who are young social advocates and leaders of the organization - Free the Children!

We are looking forward to more excitement !!!

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See the actual worship services for yourself...

You can see the worship services live by visiting the Gathering Website. You can also see a schedule of services here.

Tonight's worship featured lots of fun and surprises. There was a House Band, Rebirth Revival Band, and Agape leading our music. We listened to Liz McCartney and Marc Kielburger and his brother each speak about their experiences with justice and change in the world. But there were more surprises in store -- there was pyrotechnics and the presiding Bishop of the ELCA Mark Hansen joined worship by driving in a bathtub (really -- he greated us and led us in prayer with a bath robe over his shirt and shorts and flip flops).

Check back for more stories from the youth and pictures.

Don't forget to leave your comments! (click on the link to the
comments below)

"God's work. Our hands. "

After a long and exhausted day yesterday and a night of little sleep, I realized that I am 'multi-ethnic' :) I am 'mix up' - black, indian and portuguese !! WOW

Yesterday evening a few of us felt like we did not belong in some of the caucuses held by MYLE. For me I did not encounter such feelings, although I was asked about mine. I understand the feeling of 'not belonging' but I realized that it is not such a big deal.

As today passed I learned that everyone will not be that way and that's okay because God accepts each and everyone of us just as we are!

Today was amazing - absolutely amazing. The worships, meeting so many people - WOW ... Exciting !!!

I love it and look forward to MORE.

Look where else we are:

http://www.thelutheran.org/blog/JJJ09/

You can see the experiences of other youth here too. Check it out!!

Funny the Way it is

From Tuesday:

Today has not sat well with me. Our group had a rather odd moment in our "ethinic cacus." Admittedly, a lot of it had to do with miscommunication and poor vocalization but the experience unfolded into a much larger issue about our group's ethnic classification. What I have to say about the situation is this: the act of physically seperating teenagers by only 7 ethic classifications is not necessarily the right way to approach multicultural unification,
especially when I feel that I did not fit into any specific box of classification. The way I see it, race is a label created by humans whereas God has no labels for us.

The issue was pressing enough to have a few group discussions, one of them with a MYLE chaplain. There was all this talk about this kind of ethnic classification just being the way things are, but when you think about it, that's not any way to make the situation any better.

Progress is good. Accepting we have a flawed system and just living with it is not. I realize as I am writing this now how ambigious this all might seem. Just to clarify, there were issues in being eligible to vote in the "mulit-ethic" caucus as we were technically not multi-ethnic. But this is how the ELCA identifies our group rather than "other," which might have been a lacking classification but is more fitting. My question is why does all this labeling exist if we are
all equal unseparated members of one family in God's eyes?

Everything else today went swell.

Opening worship for the gathering!!

Day 3: unsolved problems

Today was an interesting day. Beginning the day with worship was fun and the learning activities are fun. My favorite thing of the day was the "I was adopted from a country other than the USA." It was an amazing experience. I learned a lot of family problems between both parents and adoptive parents. It was actually life changing. Later we ate and worshipped but ran into problems with caucuses because Guyanese was not specified. Solutions have not been made, but all is good. I look forward to tommorrow's youth gathering!!!

Hypocrisy in Acceptance?

Today was frustrating. When we went to the multi-ethnic youth caucus, we felt unwelcomed by the advisors. Going into detail would be a bit tedious at this point, because I've told the story too many times today, but suffice to say we were disapproved of how it was facilitated. Maybe it was the result of a miscommunication, but there was lots of tension today.

A post from Kadin.

Trip continues (by Janeane)

Dear church,

I had a great time for the past days until today. I felt outcastes when they tried to tell me that I don't belong with multi-ethnic caucuses. I thought it was a step back from what we have done so far and what MYLE was all about. Over all it was an unexpected bad day.

Love, Janeane

Day 3 without febreze

Once again another febreze day. We met and interacted with a lot more youth today and it gets better and better everyday!

Mark

The Beauty of Individuality

Day 3 started with a wonderful worship service as usual. It was very enlightening and gave us the extra boost we needed for the other activities that were planned for us. I attended two sessions; one about dating and violence and another about the way women are pecieved based on beyonce. ' number one single "single ladies". The leaders provided everyone with valuable information that can be use and reuse in the future. The long day was ended with a very different worship based on the Native Americans Culture. I continue to learn new things everyday and I cannot wait for tomorrow.

Making Connections

Yesterday was a long and packed day of activities. Our morning worship was about music and finding the beat. Rev. Ruben Duran preached, "God is the music... The more we listen the more we can be in tune with that and find the reason God is calling you by name."

We went through the day's activities. Ashley and I both served on panels to share more with others about our families and communities.

We've gotten a chance to make a lot of new connections while here. In the evening we got a chance to go to the Ethnic Associations Receptions. We got to know some of the people from Salam Arabic Lutheran Church in Brooklyn NY. We had a great time together and hope to see more of each other through the week and then back in New York. Ashley also got some dance lessons from a new friend that comes from central New Jersey. We also happened to meet the son of a former pastor of Our Saviour. They were in New York in the 80s and moved to Puerto Rico after their time at OSLC. More connections and more experiences today!!

Baptized in the Water!

God Creates Individuals in a Context of Diversity

Our second day (first full day of activities) started with a very excited worship service.

During the morning worship service we learn to dance one of the popular hispanic dances - 'de meringue'.
It was fun!

We were then engaged in breakout sessions which weren't exactly what we expected but ... during our congregational time, around 11:30 pm we talked about what transpired during the different breakouts and each of us expressed our thoughts - it was a great bonding experience! :)

In the afternoon we had dinner and then attended the evening worship service which was led by the Arab and Middle Eastern Ministries. It was fantastic!

It was a great day and we all had a great time !!!
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Febreze on your "stanky leg"

A post from Mark:

Today we had to go to a "church club" where the top songs were "Baby Got Book", a funny version of baby got back. I bet everyone is wondering what's your stanky leg? It's a song and dance and nobody from our group could do it! So if you can YouTube stanky leg and try to learn it!

A post from Kadin

So the first full MYLE day was today. It consisted of mostly workshops
on racism and diversity. The discussion session in the multicultural
youth group was interesting, and I enjoyed meeting new people. The
evening worship service was full of energy, and the band was really on.

Unfortuantely, I missed Ashley's stankey leg because I got stuck on an
elevator -- which leg is the stankey one?

Day 2: What's color got to do with it?

Waking up from yesterday's activities was not fun. The beds are comfy. I like them. After breakfast of cold cereal, the team and I went to morning worship. After morning worship we did several activities having to do with diversity and racism. The activity I enjoyed the most was the diversity circle where you can relate to other youth. Tonight there is another dance and I look forward to tomorrow.

Evening Worship Energy!

We have a new song to teach everyone when we get back to New York!!

Kadin's new friend Omar from the MYLE House Band

How many instruments can Allesha play at one time?

After this she added the triangle and a maraca into the mix.

NOLA Trip Continues

Today I felt accepted because I was in a group with a lot of multi-
ethnic youths. I loved hearing all of their experiences being multi-
ethnic and dealing with their family and friends and racism. I loved
this workshop and hope to have more fun on the days to come.

From Janeane

MYLE, up close and personal

It's hard to get to know 900 people, especially when you're 17 and trying to look cool and composed, but have no fear readers, I am slowly getting there We met on three different sessions of smaller groups today, the one I enjoy the most being the pannel. I served on as a member of an inter-faith family. About 20 of the people chose to come in and listen to our stories. Some of them about our struggles with faith and others about their joys. I was thankful for the genuine interest and curiosity of all who came. What I appreciated most was being able to listen to the stories of my fellow pannelists, who belonged to interfaith families that ranged from Muslim to Buddhist. At the end if our discussion, the panelists took questions from the audience. Some of them were terribly personal, but it was good because I know all of us were pushed to think a little deeper about our faith.

I also can't forget to mention the mega dance party (yay!) that took place for two hours tonight. Armed with our dancing shoes, we hit the dance floor. And amidst the hordes of awkward dancing and break dancing circles, I could feel a larger sense of continuity forming, and it was good.

'The Three Amigos'

Today has been a very interesting day. At 9:00 to 10:00 AM we attended a worship service. It was a very wonderful service, the guest speaker was Pastor Robert Duran, from Lima, Peru. He spoke about everything from growing up in Lima and being one with the earth to marrying a woman of a different desent. Pastor Duran talked about "The three amigos" which means the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - each need one another to operate.

Later on we went to two workshops which focused on Racism and Diversity. Both were quite interesting - it was great to see how many different culture and race have yet so much in common. We all interacted very well with each other.

Well, I'll tell you how tomorrow goes.

Diversity Circle

Teamwork!!

Fun at Lunch!

Morning Worship

Start of Day 2

Before we get into day 2, we should have a picture recap of day 1:



We got in and checked into our rooms. We weren't ready to register so we took sometime to see a little of the city and have some fun.

We got a chance to see a little bit of the differences between our city and this one and we got a chance to talk to a few locals.















The first thing we did as a MYLE group was to attend worship. Ashley, Allesha, and Marissa were all helping with worship as offering collectors and communion assistants. We were all given musical instruments for the MYLE worship services this week.

























That night we had a cultural celebration. We shared foods from various areas and enjoyed performances from groups. We also got to catch up with another familiar face.












Today we'll be worshiping and attending more workshops. It should be a really great day!!

And so the fun begins

A post from Ashley:

Exausted beyond belief? Check.
Overwhelmed by all that's going on? Check.
Excited for all the fun that's yet to come? YOU BETCHYA!

We arrived safe and sound in NOLA this morning. After lunch, we took some time to explore the French Quarter of the city and even got to do a fair bit of interacting with the locals, who are amazingly friendly.

Allesha, Marissa, and I were lucky enough to have the opportunity to serve as worship volunteers, collecting offering and assisting in communion. All 900 of us were given a variety of musical instruments to use during worship. It was different, but kinda cool.

First Day In NOLA

The first day arriving in New Orleans was very exciting. I met people from different states at the first service. Everone was very friendly and warm toward each other. The service was different from Pastor Bob but never the less it was just as fulfilling. Well, more tomorrow.
Marissa

The begining

A post from Allesha:

After arriving at church at 5 am, leaving New York at 7 am and arriving at NOLA at 9 am, having all but 2 hours of sleep, I have to say I fell good. Since we arrived at NOLA early, we decided to take a good look around the French Quarter. Walking there and spending quality bonding time together wasn't bad. It was the sun that was bad. I believe we have all gotten browner, except for Rebekah who is pink.

We went to worship with the MYLE group. Participating in it as a worship assistant made me feel special. Mixing with MYLE people was interesting. I look forward to the days coming.

Day 1. By Kadin.

Having been up for almost 39 hours now, I'm surprised I'm able to think straight.

The worship service was probably the highlight of the day. I really liked the emphasis they placed on the multicultural aspects of everything, among other things. When they had the group of teenagers come up to tell everyone what country they were from, it was shocking how many different places were represented. I also liked Pastor Keen's sermon -- the "call and response" style that he had isn't something I experience much, and it was refreshing to experience something
different.

MYLE 1st DAY

Do u know what its like to be in a worship service with 900 youths and adult leaders?

Well - we the NOLA Team experience just that. It was the most excited and fulfilling service with a few exceptions.

The service captured the hearts and souls of all with the amazing music - singing and dancing from different cultures around the globe.

It is amazing to see so many young people worshipping God and sharing there experiences with everyone.

I am grateful to be apart of Our Saviour NOLA team and for this life changing experience.

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Day 1: Airport lady steals my febreze

Todays sermon was pretty awesome. Rev. Keen was pretty good, but not better than our own Pastor Bob.

A post from Mark.

NOLA trips begins (from Janeane)

Dear everyone,
Our NOLA trip got off to a funny start with Mark at the airport. Then
we went sightseeing and ended with a great sermon by Rev. Keen.
Love, Janeane

Safe landing!

We're on our way!!

Everyone got here on time and we're about to board the flight to New
Orleans!!

We're Ready to Go!

It's the week we've been waiting for. We've been preparing and praying together as a team for seven months. We've gotten to know each other better and ourselves. Each month we've gone through the "Getting Ready" materials sent from the ELCA and we are finally ready.

Through congregational support, we have been able to raise the entire amount needed for our team of 6 youth and 2 adults. We are all incredibly grateful for the support and well-wishes! Thank you!

Join us throughout the week by checking into this blog. It is the best way for you to stay connected with us as we make this life changing journey. Come often -- we'll be posting often! And don't forget to leave comments!

Ways to Help

We get a lot of different visitors to this blog and we are all very excited that you have joined us on this journey!

There are many ways for you to help support the work we are doing this summer in New Orleans. One way is to donate to the churches we are being sent from to help defray the costs of airfare, hotel, and registration.

Another way for people to help is by providing the supplies that will be needed for the actual work we will be doing. If you are interested in helping us and the mission of the gathering, click here to learn more and donate your gift.

Dry Ground Is Just The Start

Watch this short video about service learning in New Orleans:



See the original video here.

Leave your comments and tell us what you think!

hope and change

For our most recent meeting, we talked about our special interest areas for the Youth Gathering. Many of us will be working with environmental issues and some of us will be working with issues of wealth and poverty. Overall, we talked about what we knew about these topics and what has changed in the past few years. Since Katrina, one of the biggest changes has been that the problems are no longer hidden. This made people all around rethink how they connected with God's creation and with God's people.



We took some time to make a collage that reflected hope, change, the environment, and wealth/poverty. As we came to the end of our time, we talked about how we were each able to make a difference ourselves.



(click on the photo to see it larger.)

French Quarter: Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral

Jackson Square - a rectangular plot of land, approximately the size of a city-block, is the site of the original settlement of New Orleans by the French Mississippi Company.

At that time it was known as Place d'Armes. It was designed in 1721 and originally served as military parade grounds and later as a market place and site for executions. Today it is a well manicured park and the spiritual center of the French Quarter.

Surrounding the park is a pedestrian plaza. Diverse artists rent space and hang their works on the fence, and jazz musicians, tarot card readers, and clowns entertain tourists.

In the picture - Saint Louis Cathedral - the oldest, continuously operating cathedral in the United States and the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans.

King Cake

One of the most popular foods during Mardi Gras is the king cake. It is traditionally sold in bakeries, grocery stores and delis from January 6 to Ash Wednesday. Locals and visitors eat king cake for breakfast, coffee break, and dessert. The tradition of king cake dates back to the Middle Ages when a popular devotion during Christmas was placed on the Three Wise Men who followed the North Star to find baby Jesus. The twelfth night after the birth of Christ marks the end of Christmas and the celebration of Epiphany. Twelfth Night in some cultures became a time for pageants and giving special presents to children. Along with gifts came the celebratory cake, or king cake. Today's king cake is a confection made of braided Danish pastry, laced with cinnamon. It is always iced in the Mardi Gras colors of purple which represents justice, green which stands for faith and gold which represents power. Hidden in each king cake is a tiny plastic baby. The person who finds the baby must buy the next king cake or host the next party. Contemporary king cakes are often filled with cream cheese, fruit fillings, such as apple or strawberry, and other fillings.

Cresent City Connection

This is a picture of the Crescent City Connection which is also known as the Greater New Orleans Bridge. They are twin cantilever bridges that carry U.S. Route 90 Business over the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Louisiana. Today, they are the tied as the 5th longest cantilever bridges in the world.

"Misty Mornings"

In New Orleans, vintage electric rail cars are referred to as "street cars," never "trolleys." This distinct terminology reflects the pride that people from New Orleans take in being the first city west of the Allegheny Mountains to implement passenger rail service, which existed 60 years before the trolley. Of the several lines that run through the city, some feature maghonoy seats and exposed light bulbs, constantly reminding its riders of the town's rich history.

Photographer : Louis Sahuc

http://www.photoworksneworleans.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=267

Purpose/Photo

This was taken during my trip to New Orleans last year... we had just finished cleaning up our second lot. Yes, I had short hair back then.

As for the purpose of why I'm going back to New Orleans, I can say it in one phrase: the work is not done. It wasn't done when I left last year and it's not done now. Hell, it may never be done. But as long as work still needs to be done at all, people should do whatever they can.

superdome

Here's a photo of the Superdome, where people took refuge after Hurricane Katrina and where many of our youth gathering events will be taking place.

See the original photo here.

Listening to One Another

At our last meeting, we talked about listening. We watched a short movie and talked about what we do and do not hear.

We talked briefly about the role of listening in playing jazz music. Listening is incredibly important to this style of music. Jazz musicians must listen to know when to change a rhythm and change keys. They must listen to know when to follow and when to lead.

For us to think about some of these things as a group, we played some acting improv games. Besides being a really great time, it reminded us that we had to listen to help us to know what to say and how to act in each game.