NOLA ELCA YOUTH GATHERING DAY 3

Hello All!

Finally was able to get to a computer. I was hoping to be able to blog from my phone, but to no avail.

It has been a jam packed, Spirit-filled amazing trip so far. Yesterday, our group served for 4 hours in the Southern Heat, making it possible for New Orleans residents to return to it's largest park for rest and relaxation. We cleared out invasive species of plants and laid new woodchips for walking trails. We met some great friends from Chicago, Imdiana and California.

Worship each night has been inspiring as it has called us to look beyond ourselves, find our confidence in Jesus and serve our neighbor.

We've had lots of laughs and many new inside jokes have been created. I can't wait to get home and for families to hear the stories.

Today we got to see alligators in the bayou, some even got to pet one in the river. I didn't know that alligators eat marshmallows, did you? after the adventure in the swamp, we had the opportunity to see the struggle of those who live or used to live in the Lower 9th Ward, which was 24 feet underwater after Katrina. There will be some pretty amazing pics to share.

We are all well and God is showing up in big ways this week. I pray that this experience carries our group forward in faith that God is still speaking and acting and calling us to make a difference in the world. It is God's work, but our hands do it.

Peace.

Big Easy, Here We Come!

We are less than 12 hours away from the beginning of our ELCA Youth Gathering adventure! Please keep People of Hope's 8 youth and 2 adult leaders in your prayers.

Alisha
Brianna
Brian
Dan
David
Deb
Jason
John
Maddy &
Peter

We look forward to updating you frequently! Bring on the humidity and the 'gators!

Walking in the Way,
Jason