From July 17 to 24, twelve of our youth and three adult leaders from Saint Peter’s (Forestville) and Saint John’s (Algoma) traveled to New Orleans for the 2025 National Youth Gathering of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.
This year’s theme was “Endure” — a call to remember that Christ endured the Cross for our sake, and through His Word and Church, He empowers us to endure through life’s challenges and remain faithful to the end.
A Powerful Experience
Over 25,000 people attended the Gathering — 20,000 youth and 5,000 adult leaders — making it one of the largest youth events in American Christianity. For our young people, it was unforgettable.
They worshiped in the Superdome alongside thousands of others, received Holy Communion with believers from across the country, and heard powerful messages from speakers like:
- Bethany Hamilton, whose testimony of courage and faith after her shark attack inspired everyone
- FLAME, a Lutheran rapper whose performance and talk about the peace he found in Lutheran theology struck a deep chord
- Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison, president of the LCMS, who preached a moving sermon on the call to serve others as Christ has served us
“It was so amazing to worship God with so many other people. That was really awesome.” – Cayden Neuzil
“I’ve been inspired to read the Bible more often.” – Elise Jackson
Faith in Action
In addition to worship and learning, our group also served. At a servant event at Second Harvest Food Bank, they helped pack 2,500 meals for families in need. Every morning began with Bible study, followed by breakout sessions on living out the faith — from navigating cultural pressures to building daily devotional habits.
Youth also enjoyed the Interactive Center, where Lutheran organizations, colleges, and missions shared their work. Comfort dogs, games, and a pro-life exhibit with live ultrasounds made it a meaningful and fun place to connect.
A Church-Backed Journey
This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the faithful support of our congregations. Each youth contributed toward the cost, and the rest was covered by fundraisers and church underwriting — especially through our Saint Peter’s and Saint John’s Church Picnics.
We are grateful beyond words for your generosity and prayers.
Fruit That’s Already Growing
Since returning, several of our youth have already jumped into helping with Vacation Bible School at Saint Peter’s. Even more exciting: they’ve asked to begin meeting weekly as a youth group to continue the fellowship, service, and growth they experienced in New Orleans.
“The young people gain a greater sense of their Christian identity through this conference.” – Pastor Jackson
Please continue to pray for these young men and women — that what was planted in New Orleans would take deep root and bear lasting fruit.