1. Emmanuel, High Point

Youth from Emmanuel, High Point teamed up with AmeriCorps to collect books appropriate for children ages 0-18. Under the youth group's direction, the church gathered 235 books, and their youth brought them to the High Point Library on April 27th. They spent that afternoon volunteering in an activity center, helping young children make bookmarks and various other crafts.

2. St. John's, Cherryville in D.C

February 9, St. John's youth group and adult chaperones set off at 5:00 AM for a whirlwind urban mission trip to Washington DC. The group of 26 (15 youth, 11 adults) worked with Luther Place Memorial Church and The Steinbruck Center for Urban Studies.

3. 2013 LYO Board

These three amazing women along with 9 of their new ministry partners will be serving you this year as members of your 2013 LYO Board. We'll have a complete board picture following their June Retreat. Congratulations to Jaleigh for being chosen to serve as the 2013 LYO President.

4. Youth Sunday

On Sunday, May 5, Lutheran Chapel, Gastonia celebrated "Youth Sunday" with the theme "Rejoice in the Lord Always!" About 30 of our children and youth led the entire worship service with the exception of presiding at communion and playing the organ. Two 5th graders (4th photo) did the children's sermon which included the entire congregation doing "the wave" several times, with the help of Chapel Crew, (2nd photo) our 4 year old through 1st grade youth group and choir who also sang and lead the procession into worship. Four of our 4th graders served as ushers for the service and a 6th grader served as the assistant minister for the day and music during communion was provided by youth instrumentalists.

5. Practice Discipleship

It's official - The second phase of the Practice Discipleship Initiative is a reality! This project is the result of a dynamic partnership between the ELCA Youth Ministry Network, the ELCA and its Youth Gathering, ELCA Lutheran seminaries and colleges and their faculty who teach children, youth and family ministry, and resource providers of the church. Danielle Kosanovich is serving as our PD Initiative Coach.

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