Written by Christina Black, Children, Youth, & Family Ministry Director
Sunday School Summer Fun
We’ve enjoyed spending a few mornings with several Sunday schoolers this summer. Each time, we’ve learned about a Bible story and participated in projects relating to the story. In June, we read Jesus Walks on Water, and in July we had fun with the Olympics and learning about David and Goliath.
National Youth Gathering
On July 15th, nine youth and three chaperones boarded a plane to head to the ELCA National Youth Gathering in New Orleans. We spent the week at the Gathering centered around the theme Created to Be based on Psalm 139:14. There were many fantastic speakers at our nightly mass gatherings, including Pastor Sally Azar, the first Palestinian woman to be ordained in the Holy Land. Our Accompaniment Day was spent learning more about Acts of Wisdom, a nonprofit that helps schools in Ethiopia and Liberia. And on Synod Day we worshipped with other churches from our region.
We had the privilege of meeting Minneapolis Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and ELCA Presiding Bishop Ann Svennungsen—we even got our pictures with them.
We had fun exploring the city via lots of walking and the streetcars. We did a scavenger hunt through the French Quarter, walked down Bourbon Street, enjoyed beignets, took a riverboat jazz cruise, visited the aquarium, ate local cuisine, grew in our friendships with each other, and learned more about God’s great love for us all and that we were all Created to Be!
It was a full and wonderful week. Thank you to this congregation for your generous support in sending these kids to this event!
If you missed it, the youth shared their reflections in worship on Sunday, July 21st. Listen to the service on YouTube to hear more about their experiences.
Bon Voyage to Our Luther Crest Campers!
On August 4th, 12 youth from Oak Knoll will head up to Luther Crest Bible camp near Alexandria. Please keep these kids in your prayers as they spend the week connecting with friends, nature, and God.
Do You Have a Family or Youth Event Idea?
We are always looking for new ways to get youth or families together. If you have an idea, please reach out to Christina at christina.black@oklutheran.org.
Upcoming Events:
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