2016 Gathering Guidebook

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Find them all!

SCORE A MEDIA CENTER FOR YOUR YOUTH ROOM! To learn more, use the QR code above or visit lcms.org/FindThemAll TheLCMS

@TheLCMS

#thisis MYchurch

Welcome to the LCMS Youth Gathering Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior!

It is with great joy that The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS), LCMS Youth Ministry, and the City of New Orleans welcome you to the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering, In Christ Alone! It’s been wonderful to see the social media posts of your time in Christian community in worship, Bible studies, and FUNdraisers. Over the last months, many people have been giving thanks for the life and faith given to you in Christ alone!

We gather in New Orleans to celebrate and grow more deeply in our understanding of what Christ has done for us and how He continues to care for us. In your baptism, God marked you as His dear child, and Jesus secures us in His forgiveness and grace and strengthens you in Word and Sacrament.

We stand in Christ together in community as we daily, humbly speak and show His love for others. At the Gathering, you will have a chance to see your Lutheran family together singing, praising, playing, and serving. Through it all and for the rest of your life, my prayer is that your Gathering experience supports you as God continues His good work in you (Philippians 1:6)!

Over the days of the event, know many people are praying for you – giving thanks for you, praying for your faith in Christ, praying for contentment and peace in a fast-changing world. God grant you safety and joy in the coming days in New Orleans and EVERY day, In Christ Alone. To God be the Glory!

- Rev. Mark Kiessling, Director of LCMS Youth Ministry

Left to right, Back row: Krista Miller, Robyn Armbrust, Jim Lohman, Amy Gray, Terry Dittmer.

Front row: Kyla Rodriguez, Julianna Shults, Mark Kiessling, Renee Lorenz

welcome

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@MattCHarrison

#thisis MYchurch

Hi, guys!

It was a hoot holding that sign for photos welcoming you to New Orleans for NYG 2016! I’m really looking forward to seeing you! Might even bring my banjo again.

The Gathering theme, “In Christ Alone,” will give us all a great opportunity to dig into St. Paul’s amazing letter to the Philippians.

Phil. 2:11 says, “And every tongue [will] confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Ever seen the bumper sticker “Jesus is your Savior, but is He your Lord?” That turns “Lord” all into Law. But when St. Paul uses the phrase “Jesus is Lord,” he means “Jesus is God … for you!”

We’ll look at three themes in Philippians:

1. Identity. “In Christ Alone,” I know who I am! I’m loved by God. I know

that despite my sins, my failings, my faults, my weaknesses, my screwy family, whatever … Jesus is mine, and I am His. I’m baptized.

I’m His. “Jesus is Lord,” and He loves me. Gospel!

2. Humility. To confess that “Jesus is Lord” is to confess that “I’m not!”

Jesus does not expect us to be some kind of super Christian, super holy person! In fact, Jesus came only for sinners. So, you’d better be one! Gospel!

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3. Community. My church is my home. To confess that “Jesus is Lord”

means I’ve got homies! They are young and old. They are my youth group friends. My pastor is one! Some are living here on earth, and others are in heaven. Those on earth are all imperfect, just like me. And Jesus loves and forgives them all, just like me. Gospel!

Can’t wait to see you in New Orleans!

It’s going to be unforgettable!

Pastor Matt Harrison

welcome

President, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod

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welcome

Dear attendees of the LCMS Youth Gathering: New Orleans is thrilled to host the Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod (LCMS) 2016 Youth Gathering, July 16-20. It is our great pleasure to welcome the Youth Gathering back to New Orleans, one of America’s most historic and culturally rich destinations…a city that visitors have loved for centuries.

It has been an honor to work with LCMS and the entire city appreciates the work that you do to support our community. From rebuilding homes to making sandwiches for the hungry, your service to our city is priceless.

Whether you have been to New Orleans before or not, I’m proud to say there has never been a better time to visit. Thanks to the dedication of locals and visitors like you, New Orleans is experiencing a true economic and cultural renaissance. As we prepare for our tricentennial celebration in 2018, the city is bustling with progress and innovation. From the development of a new world class airport, a re-energizing billion dollar project along the riverfront, to small independent businesses in the eclectic, up and coming historic neighborhoods of Treme, Bywater, Magazine Street and Faubourg Marigny, business and culture are booming.

While you are here you owe it to your inner soul to immerse yourself in our rich culture and enjoy all that our beautiful and authentic city has to offer. Take a journey through Hollywood South and see where your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed; try something new like crawfish étouffée in our 1,400+ restaurants; cool down with a snowball and take a walk through up and coming neighborhoods such as Bywater and Faubourg Marigny.

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On behalf of the entire hospitality community – chefs, street performers, musicians, bellmen, artists, painters, actors, writers, housekeepers and the startlingly diverse and unique inhabitants of every neighborhood – welcome to New Orleans. We hope you enjoy your stay and return often to our wonderful city.

Best Regards,

welcome

Stephen Perry President and CEO New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Welcome 3 Hotel Maps 10 Daily Schedule 12 My Schedule 15 Daily Themes 16 Community Group Resources 18 Morning Bible Study 22 Convention Center Map 28 Recreation/Gathering 5K 29 Interest Centers 30 Off-Site Interest Centers 54 Bible Study Academy 55 Concerts 58 Experiential Learning Center 60 Youth Booth 61 Exhibitors 66 District Booths 67 District Events 68 Night Life 70 Dome Events 72 Saturday: Joy in Christ Alone 77 Sunday: Identity in Christ Alone 78 Monday: Humility in Christ Alone 79 Tuesday: Community in Christ Alone 80 Sponsors 82 Acknowledgments 104 Adult Leader Guide 110 Worship Service 143

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table of contents

downtown hotel map 10

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

airport hotel map

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daily schedule

Friday – July 15, 2016 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday – July 16, 2016

8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

Late Evening Midnight

Sunday – July 17, 2016

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Registration, CC Great Hall Pre-Function Adult Leader Orientation, CC 208-210 & 211-213 See more Adult Leader information on p. 110 Registration, CC Great Hall Pre-Function Adult Leader Orientation, CC 208-210 & 211-213 See more Adult Leader information on p. 110 Doors open to the Superdome Opening Mass Event, see p. 77 Night Life, see pp. 70-71 Community Group Time, see pp. 18–21 End of Program Day

6:00 a.m.

6:30 a.m.

Gathering 5K Pre-Race Announcements Gathering 5K Begins

8:00 a.m.

Adult Leader Morning Meeting at Hotels Servant Event Deployment

9:30/10:00 a.m.

Morning Bible Study, various locations

11:00 a.m.

Experiential Learning Center opens

12:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 1

2:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 2

4:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 3

6:00 p.m.

Experiential Learning Center/CC closes

7:30 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

Doors open to the Superdome Mass Event begins, see p. 78

Late Evening

Midnight

Mass Event Plus: Rend Collective Night Life, see pp. 70–71 Community Group Time, see pp. 18–21 End of Program Day

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

8:00 a.m.

9:30/10:00 a.m.

Adult Leader Morning Meeting at Hotels Servant Event Deployment Morning Bible Study, various locations

11:00 a.m.

Experiential Learning Center opens

12:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 4

2:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 5

4:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 6

6:00 p.m.

Experiential Learning Center/CC closes

7:30 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

Doors open to the Superdome Mass Event begins, see p. 79

Late Evening

Midnight

Tuesday – July 19, 2016

8:00 a.m.

9:30/10:00 a.m.

Mass Event Plus: The Skit Guys Night Life, see pp. 70–71 Community Group Time, see pp. 18–21 End of Program Day Adult Leader Morning Meeting at Hotels Servant Event Deployment Morning Bible Study, various locations

11:00 a.m.

Experiential Learning Center opens

12:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 7

2:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 8

4:00 p.m.

Interest Center/Academy Session 9

6:00 p.m.

Experiential Learning Center/CC closes

7:30 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

Doors open to the Superdome Mass Event begins, see p. 80

Late Evening Midnight

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Night Life, see pp. 70–71 Community Group Time, see pp. 18–21 End of Program Day

daily schedule

Monday – July 18, 2016

daily schedule

Wednesday – July 20, 2016

8:30 a.m. Doors open to Superdome 9:30 a.m. Worship Service begins

11:30 a.m. Post-Worship Closing 12:00 p.m. End of the Gathering

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

My Schedule: I’d like to attend...

Interest Centers Sunday

Monday

12:00 p.m. __________________

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2:00 p.m. ___________________

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4:00 p.m. ___________________

4:00 p.m. ___________________

Tuesday 12:00 p.m. __________________ 2:00 p.m. ___________________ 4:00 p.m. ___________________

Academy (must pre-register to attend) Topic: _____________________ Time: ______________________

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Exhibitors (Halls B-D) to visit: __________________________

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my schedule

Experiential Learning Center (Halls B-E) activities to check out:

talking points

In Christ Alone Thematic Talking Points Use these thematic talking points to guide your conversations around the theme, In Christ Alone. Included below are the Scripture foci, key concepts and questions to discuss as they relate to the Gathering’s themes.

Joy in Christ Alone

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Scripture Focus: Philippians 4:4–7 In Christ alone our joy is found.

We are partners in advancing the Gospel.

Question: What does true joy look like?

Identity in Christ Alone

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Scripture Focus: Philippians 3:8–12, 1:21–26 In Christ alone I find my true identity.

I, a poor miserable sinner, have been declared as saint by grace alone through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus (Phil 1:1).

Everything APART from Christ is nothing.

For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Christ makes me more me, not less me.

Question: What aspects of my identity am I trying to keep apart from Christ?

Humility in Christ Alone

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Scripture Focus: Phil 2:1-8 Jesus alone embodies true humility Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus (Phil 2:5–8).

In Christ alone, our lives echo Christ’s humility.

In humility count others more significant than yourselves (Phil 2:3).

We confess and share the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ in response to His love for us and all people (Phil 1:5).

Question: How are you an echo?

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Community in Christ Alone Scripture focus: Phil 1:3–7; 2:12–18 There is true community in Christ alone.

Community is diverse and inclusive spanning across space and time.

There is joy in the community created in Christ alone.

In Christ alone we are made partners in the Gospel (Phil 1:5).

In Christ alone we are called as partners to advance the Gospel (Phil 1:12).

There is no more powerful witness than the church being the church (Phil 2:12–18).

Community is the place to receive grace (Sacraments) and practice grace (hospitality and forgiveness).

Question: How does community in Christ look different than every other community?

In Christ Alone We Stand

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Scripture Focus: Phil 1:12, 4:12–13, 4:23 We are sent home as partners to advance the Gospel.

As Saints, we receive and practice grace with family, friends and our community. We live and demonstrate the joy that is found in Christ alone.

I can do this through Him who gives me strength.

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talking points

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community group resource

The orders of service below are one way to begin and close your day in God’s Word and prayer together. Feel free to use the following orders or a modified version.

Prayer for Morning L: In the name of the Father and of the (T) Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All: Amen.

L: In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; All: in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch. (Ps. 5:3) L: My mouth is filled with your praise, All: and with your glory all the day. (Ps. 71:8) L: Oh Lord open my lips, All: and my mouth will declare your praise. (Ps. 51:15) All: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Hymn (Optional) Scripture Reading Suggestions: Sunday: Luke 10:38–42, the Gospel Lesson for this weekend; Monday: Phil 3:7-9; Tuesday: Phil 2:1-11; Wednesday: Phil 4:4-7 Apostles’ Creed

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I believe in God, the Father Almighty,

Maker of heaven and earth.

And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, died and was buried.

He descended into hell.

On the third day He rose again from the dead.

He ascended into heaven

and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy Christian Church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

Prayers - Pray how your community groups prays together and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth,

as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses

as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Luther’s Morning Prayer I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings in life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

L: Let us bless the Lord.

All: Thanks be to God!

Prayer for Close of Day L: All: L: All: L: All: L: All:

In the name of the Father and of the (T) Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

The Lord Almighty grant us a quiet night and peace at the last.

Amen.

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, To sing praise to Your name, O Most High; To herald Your love in the morning, Your truth at the close of the day. (Psalm 92:1–2)

Hymn (Optional) Scripture Reading Suggestions: Saturday: Colossians 1:21–29, the Epistle Lesson for this weekend; Sun: Phil 3:7–9; Monday: Phil 2:1–11; Tuesday: Phil 1:2–11

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Prayers - Pray how your community groups prays together and the Lord’s Prayer (See Daily Prayer for Morning) Luther’s Evening Prayer I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that You have graciously kept me this day; and I pray that You would forgive me all my sins where I have done wrong, and graciously keep me this night. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

L: Let us bless the Lord.

All: Thanks be to God!

community group resource

Apostles’ Creed (See Daily Prayer for Morning)

discussion questions 20

Community Group Discussion Questions Community group conversations are key ways to connect with one another, process each Mass Event, and consider how concepts apply to our lives back home. Choose from the “Nightly Warm-Up Questions” to begin your group processing conversation at the end of each day before digging into the questions for each night.

Nightly Warm Up Questions Choose one or two of these warm-up questions to use each night before you dig into the nightly content.

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What was your favorite part of today?

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What is one thing from today that surprised you?

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Who is someone who made your day today? How did they do it?

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What would you say was the best part of the Mass Event tonight?

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What key message stuck out to you from tonight’s Mass Event?

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If you had to try to sum up your experience at the Gathering today to someone who isn’t here, what would you say?

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If you had to sum up your experience today in five words or less what would you say?

Saturday: Joy in Christ Alone

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How, after tonight’s Mass Event, would you define joy?

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What does true joy look like?

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How can the cross bring joy to Paul, or to us, even when life gets rough?

Sunday: Identity in Christ Alone

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What are some of your “I am’s” ? (i.e. I am a soccer player, I am Jennifer’s boyfriend, I am super smart, etc.)

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Read Philippians 3:7–9. Paul talks about various aspects of his identity and says that when he adds them all up they are rubbish. What parts of your identity do you struggle to view as rubbish compared to Christ?

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How does knowing that your primary identity is “His”, change your other “I am” statements?

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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The various identities that we have are not bad things.

They are good gifts to be used by God. How might Christ use one of your “I am’s” to bring glory to Him?

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The struggle with identity will continue throughout your life. How can others help you to keep your identity rested in Christ?

Monday: Humility in Christ Alone After tonight’s Mass Event, is it easier or harder for you to define humility? Do you know it when you see it?

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When have you been tempted to have your service be more about you than about Jesus and what He has done for you?

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Read Philippians 2:3. What does it look like to consider others better than yourself?

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Who have you seen echo Jesus’ humility? What do they do? How have they “put the interests of others ahead of their own”?

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How do you see humility connected to true joy?

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How are you an echo?

Tuesday: Community in Christ Alone

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What are some of the communities of which you are a part (sports teams, clubs, classes, friend groups, etc.)?

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How does community in Christ look different than every other community?

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How do we see community lived out in our youth group/congregation? What are some ways we could better live out community that is built on Christ alone?

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Why is it easy to have a “you owe me” mindset when we are hurt by others instead of a heart ready to forgive?

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How is joy in Christ, identity in Christ, and humility in Christ important in building true community?

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discussion questions

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morning Bible study

Morning Bible Study

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday mornings at the Gathering begin in Bible study. There are seven Bible study locations assigned by your hotel property. Please attend your assigned location. Location information can be acquired from your hotel CLB or information board.

Convention Center locations begin at 10:00 a.m.

CC GREAT HALL: AC Hotel by Marriott, Astor Crowne Plaza, Courtyard DowntownIberville, DoubleTree New Orleans, Holiday Inn Downtown-Superdome, Hyatt French Quarter, JW Marriott, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Maison Dupuy, Omni Riverfront, RitzCarlton, Westin New Orleans Canal Place, Wyndham Garden Baronne Plaza, Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter CC LA NOUVELLE: Aloft, Best Western St. Christopher, Blake Hotel, Country Inn and Suites, Courtyard Downtown-French Quarter, Drury Inn and Suites New Orleans, Hampton Inn & Suites DT/FQ, Hilton Garden Inn French Quarter, Hilton St. Charles, InterContinental New Orleans, International House, Le Meridien New Orleans, Le Pavillion, Loews New Orleans, Renaissance Pere Marquette, Royal St. Charles, Whitney Hotel CC THEATER: Courtyard Convention Center, Crowne Plaza Airport, DoubleTree Airport New Orleans, Embassy Suites New Orleans, Hampton Inn & Suites Convention Center, Hilton Garden Inn Convention Center, Hotel Modern, La Quinta Inn & Suites – Causeway, Marriott Convention Center, Marriott Metairie, Renaissance Arts, Sheraton Metairie, Windsor Court, Wyndham Garden Inn Metairie

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Hotel locations begin at 9:30 a.m.

HILTON RIVERSIDE: Hilton Riverside (Only) HYATT REGENCY: Hyatt Regency and Hyatt House MARRIOTT NEW ORLEANS: Some residents from Marriott New Orleans (Only) SHERATON NEW ORLEANS: Sheraton New Orleans and some residents from the Marriott New Orleans

CC Great Hall - 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Dan Weber grew up in St. Louis, MO, then moved to Williamsburg, VA, then to Irvine, CA, then back to St. Louis, then to Oklahoma City, OK, back to St. Louis, then to Coeur d’Alene, ID. He now lives in Omaha, NE and serves as pastor of missional living at King of Kings Lutheran Church. Dan and his wife, Charlotte, have three kids: 6, 4, and almost 2. When not playing with them or working, he’s probably training for his next triathlon or marathon.

Sarah Salzberg lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband, Josh, and son, Hosea, traveling from one coffee shop to another trying as many lattes and croissants as she can. When not hopped up on espresso, Sarah teaches Old Testament at Orange Lutheran High School in Orange County, CA. As mundane as it sounds, she’s living the dream!

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

CC La Nouvelle - 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Scott Geiger is pastor of outreach a nd d iscipleship at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel, IN. Married to Kate for 17 years, they have three children: Emma, Andrew and Micah. Scott is originally from Lakeville, MA and is a rabid Red Sox fan.

He has never won an Oscar, Grammy or Nobel Prize, but was once runner-up newspaper carrier of the year for the New Bedford Standard-Times.

Rev. Travis Hartjen lives in Allen, TX with his wife and four kids. He served as a DCE for over 15 years before becoming a church planting pastor. Six years ago he helped launch a new church called Tangible Grace. Following Jesus has not always been easy or fun, but it has been an amazing adventure to see Jesus work in and through His people.

Hailey Jo Miller, DCE lives in New Braunfels, TX where she serves as director of Christian education for Cross Lutheran Church and School. She and her husband, Blake, have a 1-yearold daughter named Riley Jo. Hailey Jo loves floating the river in her hometown, exploring good places to eat, and sharing the love of Christ with others.

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morning Bible study

CC Theater - 10:00 a.m.

Dcs. Brenna Nunes serves as the director of children’s ministry at Saint Paul Lutheran Church and School in Aurora, IL. At home with her daughter Naomi (2005), she enjoys cultivating a berry garden, creative wins at the scrabble table, and stomping to Zumba!

Last summer she bred angora rabbits, but this summer her only pets are Moxley the Labradoodle, and Quibble Higgins the Powder Puff puppy.

morning Bible study

Hilton New Orleans Riverside: Hilton Exhibition Center A-C - 9:30 a.m.

Rev. Todd Liefer serves as an associate pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Austin, TX. He enjoys telling others about Jesus in any and every way possible. He is very much in love with his wife, Kelly, and together they enjoy running, being outdoors, and “treasure hunting” (geocaching!) with their three kids.

Hyatt Regency: Celestin Ballroom, D-H - 9:30 a.m.

Jim Bradshaw, DCE is a director of Christian education who has served as the Education Executive for the Kansas District of the LCMS for the last 11 years. Jim is a graduate of Concordia University Nebraska and has been married to his wife, Joanna, for 35 years.

They have three grown children and three grandchildren.

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Marriott New Orleans: Mardi Gras Ballroom - 9:30 a.m.

Micah Steiner, DCE is a 15-year youth ministry veteran, currently serving as the director of discipleship at Our Father Lutheran Church in Centennial, CO. He is married to Amanda and the father of Madison and Joshua. He is also an avid fan of the Denver Broncos.

Micah enjoys backpacking, spending time with family, and speaking to students across the country as part of Unpaved Ministries.

Sheraton New Orleans: Grand Ballroom - 9:30 a.m.

Rev. Matthew Ryan Gonzalez was born and baptized in The Bronx, NY. He is a graduate of Concordia College, New York and Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. In 2011 he became the pastor of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church back in The Bronx. Matthew is married to his loving wife, Katie, and they have a fantastic daughter, Phoebe.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Notes: Sunday Bible Study

notes

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notes

Notes: Monday Bible Study

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Notes: Tuesday Bible Study

notes

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convention center map

Third Floor >>> 357

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350 349 346

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Legend

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Adult Leader Area Experiential Learning Center Interest Center/Concert Recreation Off-Site Interest Center

Second Floor >>>

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208 209 210

211 223 213

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257 256 255 254 253 252

220 221 222 223

228 229 230 214

217 218 219

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La Nouvelle

260 261 262

235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242

271 272 273

265 266 267 268 269

275 276 277

Theater

286 278 279 280 281 282

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288 289 290 297 298 299

To Riverwalk Mall >>>

First Floor >>>

Julia Street

Great Hall

Hall B

<<< To Poydras

Hall C

Hall D

& Canal Convention Cen ter Bou

levard

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Hall E

Hall F

Program Options Check-In/Registration

Primary Adult Leaders were emailed confirmation of their group’s (or individual participant’s) assignment to these program options: Off-site Servant Events, Bible Study Academy, On-site Servant Events, and Off-site Interest Centers. 5K Run/Walk participants were emailed their confirmation directly. Participants for these program options must check-in on-site. Booth staff will also be able to give you information about available spots for each program option.

Booths are located in Main Entrance Lobby, near registration Friday, July 15 | 1:00 p.m – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 16 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Gathering 5K

The Gathering 5K on-site registration takes place during regular registration in the Main Entrance Lobby. (5K participants had to pre-register on-line by July 8.) Participants will receive their tshirts, bibs, and timing device at regular registration (not on the day of the race).

The race begins at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 17 near Lafayette Square (602 Camp Street; 70130). Race festivities start at 6:00 a.m. and the site opens at 5:30 a.m.

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Recreation - Hall F

Get your game on in Christ alone. Enjoy both easy-going and fast-paced games with your friends, new and old. Touch base at the supply table to get what you need for your game of choice: • • • • • • • •

9 Square in the Air Badminton Basketball Bean Bag Toss Board Games Bubble Soccer Gaga Pits Giant Jenga

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Hamster Balls Inflatables Obstacle Course Soccer Soccer Billiards Volleyball Wiffle Ball

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

CC 356-357

CC 350-351 CC 352 CC 353-355

CC 335-336 CC 338 CC 339 CC 340-341 CC 342 CC 343-345 Opener CC 346-347 CC 348-349

CC 271-273 CC 275-277 CC 278-282 CC Theater Opener CC 286-287 CC 291-292 CC 293-296 CC 333-334

Room CC Great Hall CC 208-210 CC 211-213 CC 217-219 CC 220-222 CC 228-230 CC 243-245 Opener CC 252-254 CC 255-257 CC La Nouvelle Opener CC 260-262 CC 265-268 CC 269

Friendship: Going Beyond Followers and Friend Requests

Star Wars Spirituality

Dan Kreienkamp Rev. Jay Winters Heather Ruesch Sarah Guldalian and Philip Gruenwald

Social Media: It’s Your Channel...What will you say?

Purity: Living in a World of Fifty Shades (Girls Only)

Dealing with Stress Relax and Be a Christian

Concordia University Irvine Praise Band Jennifer Roush Sex, Lies, and Identity Rev. Trevor Sutton Going Green: Biblical Truth or Brief Trend?

Shelly Schwalm Rev. Joel Beyer

Rev. Michael Salemink

Truth AND Dare The First Rosa Best Choice/Best Sex (Sexual Integrity) I've Still Got a Lot of Fight Left in Me

Designed to Thrive

Influence of Social Media: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Faith in the Halls of Power I am Whole: Keeping it Together, When it Fall

Tim Goeglein (Sun Only)

Shanna Decker Pam Stenzel Katie Sensmeier Lutheran Bible Translator Team Rev. Roosevelt Gray Thrive

Abortion Survivor Connection vs. Stereotypes The Gutter Go Ahead and Laugh

So You Wanna Be a Christian Athlete?

You Don't Need Permission I Can Stop Anytime...I Think (Boys Only)

Home Hurts Porn Again: The Dirty Little Secret Dignity Revolution

Gianna Jessen Dani Tietjen Craig Gross David Dean Lost and Found

Bread of Stone Rebecca DuPort Grant Carey Bob Lenz Remedy Drive Rev. Bob Hiller Tim Eldred Rev. Byron Williams

Concert, or includes opening band 12:00 PM Topic Zak Mirzadeh Illusionist Brad Alles ABC's of Defending the Faith Rev. Greg Manning Kicking Dirt in the Devil's Faith Rev. Marcus Lane Perfect Love Casts Out Fear: Identity in Jesus Dr. Jacob Youmans Abba Daddy Do Scott Barefoot How Can You Witness....Homosexual Lifestyle?

Rev. Bill Yonker Amazed and Enthused, Not Dazed and Confused

Youth Interest Centers

Faith in the Halls of Power I am Whole: Keeping it Together, When it Fall Faith in the Field: Calling all Christian Athletes "Little" Differences, Big God Czech Out These Stories (Sun and Monday Only)

Rev. Billy Newell

Rev. Jay Winters Rev. Amos Gray

Addiction: Where is God in This?

Relax and Be a Christian MAN UP: Becoming the Ultimate Man (Boys Only)

Benjamin Helge LYF Leadership Team Relational Witness in a Digital World Rev. Ryan Peterson How Do I Know?

Laura Davis Diffusing the Abortion Debate Mona Fuerstenau Wonderfully Made!

Rev. Joel Beyer Star Wars Spirituality Concordia University Irvine Praise Band Jennifer Roush Sex, Lies, and Identity Theft Rev. Trevor Sutton Faith and Science: Moving Beyond Debates Dan Kreienkamp and Christina Stackle How to be a Superhero

Shanna Decker Micah Parker Connor Colangelo

Tim Goeglein (Sun Only)

Posting with Plank-Eyes: Tweeting Guilt, Shame, & Jesus

Rev. Bob Hiller Rev. Leon Jameson Pam Stenzel Lost and Found

Afraid and Discouraged Courage The High Cost of Free Love

Sinking Sand: The True Foundation of Mormon Faith Stop Wasting Your Time What Hating My Body Stole From Me #RelationshipGoals

Naked and Afraid Don't Let the Bullies Mess With Your Identity Concert

Science and Religion: Conflict or Confirmation?

Who am I? Cracking the Parental Code Kicking the Dull Life to the Curb Marriage Sucks (the ego out of me) Faith Goes Pop!

Topic

Rev. Jack Onkka Tim Eldred Dani Tietjen Krissy Martin and AJ Vega

Bread of Stone Rebecca Duport Cheri Selander Remedy Drive

Brad Alles Rev. Ted Doering Rev. Bill Harmon Rev. Travis Hartjen Rev. Drew Ross Rev. Ken Chitwood

2:00 PM

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Designed to Thrive

Preventing Suicide - For Teens and All Ages What is this? Looking at Life in the Womb

What's the Deal with Islam?

More than a Forgiven Piece of Dung Leaving the Gay Lifestyle for God's Grace I'm Weird

From Drugs to Dreams The Color of Christianity Social Media as Taught by the Old Guy

Denomination Domination Blood, Guts, and God Questions You Can't Ask Your Mama About Sex

Topic Concert Playing with the Devil Mercy and Service: Serving Refugees Trump? Clinton? Jesus? Who do you Follow?

Talking Pictures Jesus, Jonah, and You: The Call to Obedience Male, Female, Both, Neither, What is Going On?

Heather Ruesch

Julianna Shults Joel Symmank Greg and Emily Finke

Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer

When All You Need is a Friend: Facing Crisis Together

Community, Faith, Service: Lutheran Young Adult Corps Were you there?

A Mission Trip to Your School

Q and A with the Theology Guy

Rev. Michael Meyer Faithful in Suffering Mark and Eric Norwine Walking Man Movie and Q & A Thrive Date Safe Self Defense Rev. Todd Kollbaum You Want Us to Do What?

Shelly Schwalm In the Meantime: Singleness Micah Parker Trusting God Concordia University Irvine Praise Band Rev. Marcus Zill Will You Survive the Academic Apocalypse?

Katie Sensmeier

Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs Rev. Steve Cholak

Rev. Ken Chitwood Rev. Paul Goeke Scott Barefoot 321 Improv

Bread of Stone Clint Colwell Rev. Tim Carter Craig Gross Remedy Drive Jeremiah Fry Rev. Byron Williams Rev. Ted Doering

David Crowder Carol Gray Folabi Olagbaju Rev. Bill Harmon Dr. Jacob Youmans Heath Lewis Rev. Bill Yonker

interest centers

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Christian illusionist, Zak Mirzadeh is a stage illusionist. As a part of his performances, Mirzadeh weaves in his story of what it was like to grow up in a religiously Muslim household and how the Gospel of Jesus transformed his life.

The ABC’s of Defending the Faith Brad Alles CC 208-210

Why are you a Christian? Can you explain what you believe and why you believe it? While we have faith because of the Holy Spirit, there is plenty of evidence to back up our claims.

Knowing them is as easy as ABC...A is for Archaeology, B is for Bible, and C is for Christ. Discover the rest and be ready to defend the faith!

How to Kick Dirt in the Devil’s Face When You are Down Rev. Greg Manning CC 211-213

There is a thief who comes to kill, steal and destroy. However, each of us has the power to show the devil that we can and will get back up when tough things like death, sickness and hard times are thrown at us. Learn how to get back up, kick dirt in the devil’s face and tell everyone how you made a fool out of the devil.

Perfect Love Casts Out Fear: Finding Our Identity in Jesus Rev. Marcus Lane CC 217-219

Finding our identity in the wrong thing can easily lead us to exhaustion and fear that we are not accepted. Finding worth in our accomplishments can easily lead us to feel as if we are inadequate. But, the Gospel invites us to imagine a different reality. Instead of finding our identity in what we do, Jesus invites us to come and find our identity in Him.

Abba Daddy Do Dr. Jacob Youmans, DCE CC 220-222

Dr. Youmans explores the bizarre and profound concept of childlike faith through the lens of the ordinary everyday life adventures he experienced with his own kids. He will help you connect your stories to Jesus’ story and encourage you to explore life through the eyes of a child. God is our Father, come learn what that really means!

CC Great Hall

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GAME Zak Mirzadeh

interest centers

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

How Can You Witness To Someone Who Embraces Homosexuality?

Scott Barefoot CC 228-230

Just about everyone seems to have a friend or relative embracing a homosexual lifestyle. Come receive some practical strategies for starting and continuing what can be very uncomfortable discussions from a fellow Lutheran who once had embraced “the gay lifestyle” and climbed back out of it by the grace of God.

Amazed and Enthused Not Dazed and Confused Rev. Bill Yonker CC 243-245 w/opening concert

God has given you passions and gifts to both propel you into living out the plan God has for your life as well as being a meaningful and unique person that will bring hope, joy and life to others.

Overcoming the fear to display these passions will enable you to step out of the regular and routine and show the world what you are bringing to it. It will also serve and encourage others.

Hurts 32 RebeccaHome Duport, DCE

CC 252-254

Porn Again: The Dirty Little Secret Grant Carey, DCE CC 255-257

Sometimes home is hurting, and home is not a place of love, joy and comfort.

Divorce, neglect, hunger, the pressure to perform or please parents and peers is unbearable. How do we live in a world that is broken and hurting? Even though Christ abides in us, how do I comfort friends who are searching for a home outside of Christ?

In a n age of i nsta nt accessibi lit y, pornography can be found quickly and easily. During this session, we’ll tackle tough questions like: Is porn really so harmful? Why does it make me feel so dirty? Why is it so hard to stop? Does God still love me even when I struggle?

Come for honest discussion and stories, and leave better equipped to deal with the dirty little secret of porn.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

This is more than an anti-bullying talk.

Come and be encouraged and inspired in biblical dignity, a dignity that comes from creation and the cross.

So You Wanna Be a Christian Athlete Rev. Bob Hiller CC 260-262

The Lord has gifted many people with athletic skills and abilities. But how does one live out their faith in the field of competition? How can you love your enemy and try to defeat them at the same time? Does being a Christian athlete mean I have to act like Tim Tebow every time I do well? Come learn what it means to honor God and love your neighbor in your athletic “vocation.”

You Don’t Need Permission Tim Eldred CC 265-268

You were designed to do—not watch.

Create—not spectate. God hand-picked you to play a significant part in history.

You’re uniquely gifted and perfectly positioned. So what are you waiting for?

Seriously, you can transform the world right now. In this lively session, you’ll discover how to imprint the planet for Jesus. So stop watching and wondering when something will change. Take action. And no—you don’t need permission!

I can stop anytime...I think (Boys Only) Rev. Bryon Williams CC 269

Is sex addiction a real thing? If it is, how do we know if we have it and what can we do about it? Find out God’s plan for those who struggle to match their sexual behavior with their spiritual beliefs.

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Dignity Revolution: Standing Up for Everyone Bob Lenz CC La Nouvelle w/opening concert

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Abortion Survivor Gianna Jessen CC 271-273

Talk to Gianna for a few minutes, and she’s likely to punctuate every sentence with a deep, infectious laugh. Talk to her for a while longer and as her story unfolds, it’s apparent that the constant joy has overcome unspeakable challenges. Her life has been a short path with obstacles at every turn: the hardest of hards, betrayal, and cruelty.

For every setback, she doesn’t live as a v ic t i m. She lives t he i mpossible through Jesus.

Connection vs.

Stereotypes Dani Tietjen CC 275-277

Seeing is not knowing and knowing is not understanding. We were created for connection, yet humanity has a bad habit of boxing people into stereotypes that separate us from one another.

Wit hout shared stor y, we isolate ourselves into common groups, yet, we also fear what we do not understand.

Community is the answer to our ever present struggle for connection.

The Gutter Craig Gross CC 278-282

Why did an all-knowing, all-powerful God send t he per fect ion of His kingdom—His only Son—to the earth through the gutter? Why did Jesus spend so much time, reaching out to people in their own secret, dark places?

Why do His followers so often turn away from those very same situations? Craig Gross will share stories and insights he gained while spending time with the people who dwell there and challenge you to get in the gutter.

Go ahead and LAUGH! You look better with a smile.

David Dean CC Theater w/opening concert

Ready to laugh your fool head off?

WHY? You deserve it. Our lives are full of anxiety and worry. Jesus tells us to live life to the fullest...which should include a good hard laugh. Let’s giggle at ourselves. If not, someone will do it for you. Laughter is good medicine.

You’ll feel better. Best of all, the comedy is clean. When was the last time you tinkled just a bit from laughing so hard?

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

CC 286-287

Tim Goeglein, vice president of external relations at Focus on the Family in Washington D.C., will discuss why politics—while important —is downstream from culture, and why the centrality of what is happening among families, marriages, and parents are more important than political d i f ferences. Ti m w i l l d iscuss why Millennials might consider human life, marriage, and religious liberty as some of the most important issues facing the rising generation of young Christians.

I am Whole: How to Keep It Together When Everything Falls Apart Shanna Decker CC 291-292

We all come to a point when we feel as though life has gone nothing like how we wanted it to. As Christians, what do we do then? How are we supposed to respond to great trial? Join Shanna as she walks you through her own insurmountable journey filled with trial to learn these answers. Experience her humor, dynamic storytelling, and honesty for an experience that will change your life.

Influence of Social Media: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Pam Stenzel CC 293-296

Whatever has your attention influences you. Social media, in all its forms, is here to stay and seems to get more powerful in its influence daily. The technology is not the problem. How social media is used, how often it is used, and the messages being delivered will determine its influence. Just as our physical diet affects our bodies, our social media diet determines our character. Assess your “inward” health by examining your social media diet!

* This session is on Sunday only.

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Faith in the Halls of Power: What Really Matters in the Public Square* Tim Goeglein

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Designed to Thrive Katy Sensmeier, MA, MFT CC 333-334

God’s design is so miraculous and complex that sometimes we have a tough time figuring ourselves out.

Many of us have felt powerless in our struggles with stress, anxiety, and depression. Well, power-up, people! All the latest brain research, along with Scripture, shows that God designed us with incredible power and influence!

We will discover the many tools God provides us to live in emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Truth AND Dare Nathan and Sarah Esala and Rev. Rich Rudowske CC 335-336

When Nathan and Sarah Esala hosted a birthday party for their four-year-old, they were shocked when 100 “friends” showed up, and the adults played the kids’ party games. Their new home in Ghana, as missionaries with Lutheran Bible Translators, was definitely outside their cultural box. The Esala’s have crossed boundaries with international students, immigrants, and citizens in a dozen countries and are passionate about helping ot hers discover God’s transformative work in the midst of struggle.

The First Rosa Rev. Roosevelt Gray CC 338

Born to an ordinary life in rural Alabama, Rosa J. Young was anything but ordinary. Civil-rights champion Dr. Rosa Parks is well known to history, but there was another Rosa. “The First Rosa” is a film about a missionary who planted historically black Lutheran schools and chapels in the South. See the long odds they faced-struggles with strident critics, the Ku Klux Klan, even an invasion of boll weevils—before emerging with a glorious victory.

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

This high-energy session focuses on the impact our sexual choices have on identity, humility and community.

What does direction in adolescence and celebration in adulthood look like?

Master educators will help you examine God’s gift of sexuality in a true and honest way. You will be challenged in a relevant and God-honoring way to embrace the counter-cultural lifestyle of sexual integrity.

I’ve Still Got a Lot of Fight Left in Me: Compassionate Conversation About Assisted Suicide Rev. Michael Salemink CC 340-341

We’ l l ex a m i ne a s sisted su ic ide’s semantics and statistics. We’ll explore its solutions, stories, and suggestions.

We’ll evaluate autonomy, pain, “quality of life,” and “death with dignity.” And we’ll enjoy how the Christian Gospel invites us to insist on accompanied suffering instead of settling for assisted suicide.

Friendship: Going Beyond Followers and Friend Requests Shelly Schwalm, DCE CC 342

Even with 367 friends on Snapchat and 538 Twitter followers you’re still feeling lonely? God’s intention for friendship and relationship is much bigger than a snap or double tap. He designed you for rich relationships, to be seen and known. We’ll talk about what that means for friendships via social media and beyond.

Star Wars Spirituality Rev. Joel Beyer CC 343-345 w/opening concert

A long time ago, in a galaxy (not so) far, far away...George Lucas blasted onto the Hollywood scene with Luke, Leia, light sabers, and the legend of Star Wars. Forty years later, his empire continues to expand, capturing the adventurous spirits of people young and old. In this session, we’ll unpack how Star Wars approaches spirituality and connect it to the reality that Jesus is our “only hope.”

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Best Choice/ Best Sex Thrive CC 339

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Sex, Lies, and Identity Theft Jennifer Roush CC 346-347

The same lies the enemy spoke in the garden are the ones he uses today. He does not want you to know who you really are because he is afraid of who God made you to be. Come and hear a compelling story of how God has taken a broken person, wounded by sexual sin, and is using her life for His glory and how He wants to do the same in and through you.

Going Green: Biblical Truth or Brief Trend?

Rev. Trevor Sutton CC 348-349

It seems like everyone is talking about ‘Going Green’ lately. This raises a question: Is this just a brief trend that will come and go? Or is environmental stewardship based in biblical truth?

Come explore how God uses us to care for creation.

Dealing with Stress Dan Kreienkamp, DCE CC 350-351

Ever punched a hole in a wall... screamed at someone... couldn’t sleep... cried... because of stress? Together we will talk about how to deal with the stress we all face using examples from the Bible, pop culture, and real life.

Relax and Be a Christian Rev. Jay Winters CC 352

The world and a lot of Christianity tells us that Christianity is tough, work, impossible, unattractive, or all of the above. But what if Christianity is actually just a matter of showing up and being yourself? Wouldn’t that be a refreshing difference? We will talk about how evangelism, discipleship, and even your eternal life gets easier when you just show up and let God be God for you.

Purity: Living Black & White in a World of Fifty Shades (Girls Only) Heather Ruesch CC 353-355

More than just another “sex talk.” What are the real differences between what the world says about sex and what God’s Word tells us? How do we live pure lives in a world that sells sex with whoever, whenever, and however? A “Girls Only” session.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Social Media: It’s Your Channel...

What will you say?!

Sarah Guldalian & Philip Gruenwald CC 356-357

Yes, it’s good to put your phone down and just talk to people! But we encourage you to pick your phone UP – and say something that matters! And, what matters most? Jesus Christ! Social media allows you to host your own channel. What’s your message? You can be a world changer. What kind of impact will you make? Get with those crazy five14 presenters from Lutheran Hour Ministries to make social media count for Christ!

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

What is historical science?

What is observational science? Contrary to popular belief, Christians aren’t anti-science. In fact, the scientific method was developed by a Christian!

Observational science will confirm what Scripture says, since what we read in God’s Word is what we see in God’s world. Find out the difference between the two and how to defend the faith as well as science!

Who Am I? Rev. Ted Doering CC 211-213

It’s as if you are stuck in a terrible Disney Channel movie where everyone fits into their nice little niches: jock, band nerd, popular kids. People will tell you, “It’s only high school. That will all change.”

And it does…a little. The world wants to tell you who you are. However, the Gospel tells a different story and gives you a new identity.

Cracking the Parental Code Rev. Bill Harmon CC 217-219

Tired of hearing “Because I said so” and “As long as you live under my roof, you’ll…”? Do all parents read out of the same rule book? Come and find out why parents do what they do from someone who has asked the same questions and found out the answers.

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Science and Religion: Conflict or Confirmation?

Brad Alles CC 208-210

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Kick the Dull Life to the Curb Rev. Travis Hartjen CC 220-222

A life of following Christ alone is anything but predictable or boring.

Maybe it is time to kick the dull life to the curb, and learn what it means to be a disciple and what it looks like to follow Jesus. Spoiler Alert: It is an amazing journey, marked by tears and laughter while relying on the grace of Christ.

Marriage Sucks (the ego out of me) Rev. Drew Ross CC 228-230

Marriage is the most confusing commitment that most people will ever make. And the crazy part is that the decisions we make before we are married will end up playing a major role in our married lives. Now is the time to figure out, “What do I believe about marriage?” “Who is marriage for?” and “Do I really need to start thinking about marriage now? Like... now? This is nuts!”

Faith Goes Pop! Rev. Ken Chitwood CC 243-245 w/opening concert

Can you find Jesus on Snapchat, Netflix, or in a bag of movie popcorn? Let’s take a bold foray into the unknown and untamable intersections between religion and popular culture. Exploring such diverse pop culture phenomena as social media, soda, and sports, we will enjoy a fun, but thought-provoking, session on how to forge and find faith in some of the most unexpected places.

Naked and Afraid Rebecca Duport, DCE CC 252-254

Adam and Eve were naked and afraid.

They were hiding from God and fear entered the world from disobedience of God and shame. True fears teens face involve rejection, abandonment, not being good enough, failures, acceptance, pressure to succeed, future, etc. Temptations lead us to abide in other things and our fears deter us from looking to Christ. Christ helps us conquer those fears! There is no fear in love. Christ promises to love us.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Bullies have been around since sin came into the world. Being bullied can be painful and humiliating. Together we will listen and share our experiences with one another. We will draw strength and encouragement from God’s Word to forgive. We will seek out tools and build skills to cope with bullying, stand up for ourselves and others, and rise above hurtful words and actions to live with courage and the hope of Jesus.

Sinking Sand: The True Foundation of the Mormon Faith Rev. Jack Onkka CC 260-262

You have seen their missionaries in your community riding on bicycles and talking to people about their faith.

Mormons say they believe in Jesus Christ, but do they really? Learn the differences between the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) and Christianity, in particular our Lutheran beliefs. Pastor Jack will share his first-hand knowledge about the Mormon faith and his journey to Christ.

Stop Wasting Your Time Praying Tim Eldred CC 265-268

We grow up learning to pray, but do you ever feel like it’s a waste of time?

How often have you prayed only to feel like no one’s listening? Maybe it’s time to review the purpose and power of a solid prayer life. If you’re looking to discover God’s plans for your life and understand your true potential as a follower of Jesus, this session will teach you to make prayer a habit you can’t live without.

What Hating My Body Stole From Me Dani Tietjen CC 269

We all have a story with our body and how we relate to ourselves in our own skin. This is a discussion-based session, so come ready to engage. We will bring our questions, frustrations, and concerns to the table and hold them in light of the truth of who we were created to be.

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Don’t Let The Bullies Mess With Your Identity in Christ Cheri Selander, DCE CC 255-257

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m. #RelationshipGoals Krissy Martin & A.J. Vega CC 271-273

What is God’s plan for you in a relationship? Join A.J. Vega and Krissy Martin to discuss topics on dating, sex, long-distance relationships, and more! You can tweet at @thebossajv to ask any questions, and use the hashtag #RelationshipGoalsNYG to join in conversations! Some of your questions might be used for discussion during the session!

Posting with Plank-Eyes: Tweeting Out Guilt, Shame, and Jesus Rev. Bob Hiller CC 275-277

All the time we spend on social media (SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, etc.) shapes the way we think, speak, and act. But, what sort of people does the internet shape us to be? What is internet shaming and how can it damage people?

How does the message of the Gospel change the way we interact with one another online and in real life?

Afraid and Discouraged Courage Rev. Leon Jameson CC 278-282

Courage is something we possess on the inside that often gives us the strength to be brave on the outside. God’s Word is filled with examples of everyday terrified people who often messed things up and doubted God…. yet GOD USED THEM ANYWAY. Courage in your walk of faith is important. Come consider how courage doesn’t come from ourselves, it comes from a God who loves us too much to leave us in a place of fear.

The High Cost of Free Love Pam Stenzel CC Theater w/opening concert

God created sex! He is not the cosmic kill-joy, but He did create sex with boundaries to protect us and our future marriage. After years of listening and learning from young women and men facing unplanned pregnancies, positive STD results and heartache from broken relationships, Pam Stenzel knew someone needed to start telling the truth about the consequences when sex is treated so casually. The choice is yours, be informed!

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

See description on page 35.

I am Whole: How to Keep It Together When Everything Falls Apart Shanna Decker CC 291-292

See description on page 35.

Faith in the Field - Calling all Christian Athletes Dr. Micah Parker CC 293-296

This session will compare the similarities between sports and religion. You will learn what it means to serve God through athletics.

Sports do not build character, they reveal it. Learn principles from a former college athlete and coach about how to witness as an athlete and praise God through athletics.

This talk is for athletes of all abilities, sports fans, and future coaches.

“Little” Differences, Big God! Connor Colangelo CC 333-334

What’s it like being 4ft-2in and a sophomore in high school? That’s my life! My name is Connor and I’m a little person. I was born with a form of dwarfism called Achondroplasia. What do I think of my life?

It’s awesome! I have a great God to thank for that! Jonathan Loesch, DCE at Connor’s church, will also share about the joys & challenges of being a parent of a son with Down syndrome.

Czech Out These Stories** Benjamin Helge CC 335-336

Think you’re too young to share the Gospel?

Well, listen up! God has equipped you and sends you to your community and the world ready to proclaim Christ crucified. Join LCMS missionary, Benjamin Helge, and students from the Czech Republic as they share stories of God working in one of the most atheistic countries in the world. Be encouraged and hyped to share your faith wherever you’re from and wherever God leads you.

* This session is on Sunday only. ** This session is on Sunday and Monday only.

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Faith in the Halls of Power: What Really Matters in the Public Square* Tim Goeglein CC 286-287

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Relational Witness in a Digital World LYF Leadership Team CC 338

In the digital age, story is powerful. As you tell your story and “The Story”, your friends can see the love of Christ in you.

This hands-on experience uses video presentations, processing activities, and action plan development to walk you through the process of building relationships and sharing Jesus with your friends. Relationships are messy, but with God all things are possible as he works through you to show His love.

How Do I Know?

Rev. Ryan Peterson CC 339

Your life is filled with big decisions.

More are coming up. One friend tells you to do one thing, while another says something totally different. How do you know what to do? We’ll explore how you begin to sort through all the advice and voices out there to hear what God might be saying to you. Bring your questions, your fears, your anxious thoughts, and let’s talk about them!

Diffusing the Tension: Exposing the Heart of the Abortion Debate Laura Davis CC 340-341

When you bring up the topic of abortion, it seems like everyone has an opinion, and those opinions can quickly turn into arguments and angry rhetoric. In this session, we’ll talk about how to identify the reason behind the rhetoric and turn a frustrating debate into a productive conversation. We’ll also discuss what Scripture has to say about life and how to respond to common justifications for abortion.

Wonderfully Made!

Mona Fuerstenau CC 342

Ever yone is wonderf ully made in the eyes of our Creator! This session discusses how people with disabilities are valuable and crucial to the whole body of Christ. Sa nct it y of life discussions are not just about pre-born or elderly.

Star Wars Spirituality See description on page 37.

Rev. Joel Beyer CC 343-345 w/opening concert Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Sex, Lies, and Identity Theft See description on page 38.

Jennifer Roush CC 346-347 Faith & Science: Moving Beyond Debates Rev. Trevor Sutton CC 348-349

What comes to mind when you hear ‘faith’ and ‘science’ in the same sentence? Debates? Disagreements?

Disunity? It is about time that we move beyond all the debates, and find some common ground. This does not mean simply overlooking disagreements such as creation and evolution. Instead, we go out of ou r way to f i nd t he poi nts of agreement while still holding firm to God’s truth.

How to be a Superhero

Do you have Superpowers? Don’t worry! Not all Superheroes needed Superpowers in order to change lives. Join us as we talk about the skills and principles that make youth great peer leaders! No capes required!

CC 350-351

Relax and Be a Christian Rev. Jay Winters CC 352 Man Up: Becoming the Ultimate Man (Boys Only) Rev. Amos Gray CC 353-355

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See description on page 38.

We live in an age where young men are underestimated. Boys in our world are bashed by the media because of drugs and violence that happens in our communities. Gray will present to “Boys Only” how to take a stand and MAN UP in a world that tries to bring them down.

He will use stories and the Word of God to teach boys how to become men of God in their generation.

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Dan Kreienkamp, DCE Christina Stackle, DCE

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Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Addiction: Where is God in This?

Rev. Billy Newell CC 356-357

Robin Williams, Daniel Radcliffe, Michael J Fox, Demi Lovato, and countless others have one thing in common: Addiction. Pastor Billy’s mom, dad, brother, grandmother, several uncles, and several father figures were all drug addicts and alcoholics.

Statistically, his life was over before it started. Miraculously, God has chosen to do something different. Where is God in this? Pastor Billy shares his story of restoration and hope.

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

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Playing with the Devil Carol Gray, LMSW, MHP CC 208-210

We all know the devil is not our friend.

There are times though that we have felt compelled to do things we know we shouldn’t do. Why do we continue to play on the devil’s playground when we know he doesn’t play fair? We need to understand that this isn’t a game, it’s a fight! Learn the rules that the devil operates with. These rules will help you win the fight!

Mercy and Service: Lutherans’ Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis Folabi Olagbaju CC 211-213

What do you know about the Syrian refugee crisis? 12 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes because of war and violence, and 60 million people are displaced worldwide.

Lutherans around the world are shining the light of God’s love on the path towards safety and hope. Come learn about one of the worst humanitarian crises of our times, and what YOU can do to help.

Trump? Clinton?

Jesus? Who do you follow?

Rev. Bill Harmon CC 217-219

Explore ways to live your Christian faith, engage in sincere conversation and love your neighbors in a politicallycharged society, no matter what your affiliation is.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Youmans teaches us how to use movies as a means and metaphor for communicating the Gospel.

Films are stories, and every story can be connected to the ultimate story of God’s redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Come learn how to turn a trip to the movies into a mission trip!

Jesus, Jonah, and You: The Call to Obedience

What does it look like to obey God? What role does obedience play in the life of a Christian in 2016? In this session, we will: explore lessons about obedience from the lives of Jesus, Jonah, and other Biblical figures; discover how obedience impacts believers today; and discover that in order to lead, we must first understand how to follow.

Heath Lewis, DCE

CC 228-230

Male, Female, Both, Neither, Something Even Different: What In The World Is Going On??

Rev. Bill Yonker CC 243-245 w/opening conert

“And the Creator made them male and female...” Or did He? Are our identities assigned by God, or is it a matter of personal discovery? Is the Bible the authority on this or does it just offer suggestions and guidance? So many questions, so many opinions, so many sides, but real people are having to face these REAL realities. What does Jesus want from us in all this and how can we show Jesus?

Denomination Domination

What does my Catholic friend believe? Why does my Baptist friend’s youth group want me rebaptized? With so many Christian d e n o m i n a t i o n s , w h a t ’s t h e difference? We’ll discover more about others by learning more about ourselves, and do it in a way that’s fun and easy to understand.

Clint Colwell, DCE

CC 252-254

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interest centers

Talking Pictures Dr. Jacob Youmans, DCE CC 220-222

interest centers 48

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

Blood, Guts & God Rev. Timothy Carter CC 255-257

Tim Carter shares his journey from Death Row executioner to pastor. It is one of violence and terror yet blessings by the works of God in a terrifying environment. Carter explains how previous generations produced numerous violent predators and how the current generation can change that trend by following God’s directions for protecting His sheep while still loving wolves. It’s a riveting testimony that shows how God’s children can have love for their enemies.

Questions You Can’t Ask Your Mama About Sex Craig Gross CC La Nouvelle w/opening concert

Let’s talk about sexuality; your sexuality and the sexuality of others. Let’s talk about what is and isn’t okay to look at, do, and think about. Questions You Can’t Ask Your Mama About Sex is exactly that—questions too uncomfortable to talk about with your parents. No topic is off limit. You will be able to text your questions to Craig Gross and he will respond from God’s Word and his work with XXXchurch.com

From Drugs to Dreams Jeremiah Fry CC 260-262

Going from a crack house to working on movie sets of Terminator, Pitch Perfect 2 and The Best of Me, Jeremiah Fry shares his story of faith and how to be in the world but not of the world, while wearing skinny jeans. He will share his secret to never working another day in your life and how to cultivate real change in Christ alone.

The Colors of Christianity Rev. Byron Williams CC 265-268

Of course, All Lives Matter, but does that mean that Christ is colorblind? Should we be? Come explore the pros and cons of practicing Colorblind Chrtistianity.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

It’s not that he’s that old…he’ll turn 30 in December. So not super old, right? Yet, Ted grew up through the age where MySpace was king, Facebook was only for college kids (if you were lucky), Twitter was new, and has been heard saying “How does this even work?” concerning Snapchat. Inspite of his advanced age, or possibly because of it, Ted has learned how to navigate social media through a Gospel lens.

What’s the deal with Islam?

Rev. Ken Chitwood CC 271-273

What is Islam? Do Muslims hate us? Should Christians be friends with Muslims?

This session seeks to pose and answer tough questions about Islam and Muslim communities around the world, right down the street, and living next door. Looking to Jesus’ example and considering the reality of religious ritual and belief, this session will invite participants into a friendly encounter with “the religious other.”

More Than a Forgiven Piece of Dung Rev. Paul Goeke CC 275-277

I was once told that being forgiven by Jesus was like being a “snow-covered dung heap: - dirty on the inside but covered by Jesus.

Forgiven...but still a piece of junk.” This is what I believed, and it seemed really humble.

But the Bible says I am a NEW CREATION in Jesus. “New Creation” sounds pretty different than snow-covered dung! I look forward to learning with you who we really are in Christ.

Leaving The Gay Lifestyle For God’s Grace Scott Barefoot CC 278-282

Homosexuality... It has become a “ hot button topic” in our society today. Many have been working to paint homosexuality as a normal, everyday part of life and society.

Ever wonder why some people struggle with same-sex-attractions and some never do?

Are certain people born gay? Is it possible for someone to change their sexual orientation?

Come hear about a christian’s personal struggles with those very questions and the answers he arrived at with God’s help.

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interest centers

Social Media as Taught by an Old Guy Rev. Ted Doering CC 269

interest centers

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

I’M WEIRD 321 Improv CC Theater

321 Improv will make you laugh until your face falls off! Through their one-of-akind comedy show, 321 Improv will turn audience suggestions into side-splitting laughter and create an experience that will not soon be forgotten.

Preventing Suicide - For Teens and All Ages

Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among young people in the USA, but did you know it is even more common among older people? What can Christians (of all ages) do to help prevent others from attempting to harm themselves? Come and learn what you can do to “help and support your neighbor in their physical need.”

Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs

CC 286-287

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What is This?

Looking at Life in the Womb: The LCMS Ultrasound Project Rev. Steven Cholak CC 291-292 Designed to Thrive Katy Sensmeier, MA, MFT CC 333-334 Faithful in Suffering Rev. Michael Meyer CC 335-336

“What is this?” might seem like a strange question to ask about life in the womb.

To some of you, it will be obvious that what you see on the ultrasound screen is a baby. Others might see a fetus or a blob of tissue or a part of a woman’s body. So what is this? Join Rev. Cholak from LCMS Life Ministry and explore what God says about life, including life in the womb.

See description on page 36.

This session will discuss suffering, loss, and how to deal with it as a Christian.

It will also provide tips for how to share God’s peace with others who may currently be suffering in various ways.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

Walking Man Movie and Q&A Mark Norwine CC 338

After a Missouri high school loses three students to suicide, Mark Norwine embarks on a 200-mile walk across the state, seeking to educate students and better understand the epidemic for himself. Mark is joined by his son, Eric, but when the road proves difficult, father and son must confront their own mental health struggles, which they’ve kept secret for so long. Walking Man is an honest look at one family’s journey with mental illness.

Date Safe Self Defense This self defense workshop teaches Thrive evasion strategies, escape methods, CC 339 striking techniques, and more!

Do you ever get tired of adults telling you what to do all of the time? Would you like to have more input into how you “do” youth group? Join us as we share ideas and discuss strategies to partner with adult leaders to make a more youth-driven youth group.

In the Meantime: Singleness isn’t just Cat Ladies and Basement Dudes Shelly Schwalm, DCE CC 342

Fact: Unmarried adults now outnumber married adults in the United States. Singleness is no longer just for the cat ladies, sitcoms, and dudes in their mom’s basement.

Get a glimpse of singleness that can be both legendary and Godhonoring, because our identity and calling are rooted in Christ. Your life doesn’t have to wait for a ring to begin. There’s so much God has in store for you in the meantime!

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interest centers

You Want Us To Do What?

Rev. Todd Kollbaum CC 340-341

interest centers 52

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

Truly Trusting God Dr. Micah Parker CC 343-345 w/opening concert

Learn the difference between “praise trust” and “adversity trust”. Based on Proverbs 3:5-6, this session will push you out of your spiritual comfort zone.

You’ll never look at the word “trust” the same again. Learn how to walk with God through any valley and to laugh at yourself through life’s awkward circumstances. It involves audience participation and flying t-shirts. If you can’t catch a t-shirt, please avoid this talk.

Will You Survive the Academic Apocalypse?

Rev. Marcus Zill CC 346-347

Whether you are excited or scared to death to go to college, you are about to enter a whole new world, one that is both exhilarating and frightening.

Almost nothing will be the same. Will you survive or will you be among the first to turn? Don’t be among the walking dead but among the walking living! Come and get prepared to enter the brave new collegiate world.

Ask Anything: Q&A with Theology Guy Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer CC 348-349

Okay, it says “Ask Anything,” but what we have in mind here are questions about the Bible; your faith; what Christians (and Lutherans) believe about this, that or whatever; other religions; moral and ethical issues, etc. No math or science questions allowed, please! Joel Lehenbauer, resident “Theology Guy” and theological advisor for “In Christ Alone,” will field any and all questions and provide brilliant answers (or least some kind of answer). Join us—and ASK ANYTHING!

Community, Faith, Service and Lutheran Young Adult Corps Julianna Shults, DCE CC 350-351

Many LCMS youth and young adults share a desire to serve their communities as they share their faith in Christ alone.

God has given you and your communities a multitude of gifts and resources that can be used to create healthy, sustainable communities. Come hear how Lutheran Young Adult Corps seeks to serve underresourced neighborhoods by starting with the skills, associations, and assets in these communities.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

What was it like to stare down Goliath?

To hear your donkey talk to you? To watch your paralyzed friend walk again?

What if we stopped reading the Bible as stories and read it as the account of a real God interacting with real people in their real circumstances? When we recognize how God is at work in the lives of others, we see more clearly how He is at work in our own.

A Mission Trip to Your Own School Rev. Greg Finke CC 353-355

Jesus is on a mission at your school, on your team, with your group, and where you work. He is already working in the life of every person you meet. How can we join Him in what He is doing? How can we support each other as we head into our mission field week after week?

The answers are simpler than you think and a lot more fun!

When All You Need Is a Friend: Facing Crisis Together Heather Ruesch CC 356-357

We have a relational God who has created us to be relational people.

When facing troubles like divorce, teen pregnancy, depression, or suicide alone, life can feel pretty hopeless. What are the signs that someone is in trouble?

Believe it or not, you can be Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s light to someone in need!

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interest centers

Were You There?

Joel Symmank, DCE CC 352

off-site interest centers

Off-Site Interest Centers Off-Site Interest Centers allow participants to learn more about our host city and how her citizens have lived together through triumphant and difficult times. These sessions will take place throughout the full days of the Gathering programming (July 17-19). They happen at different times and meet in different locations of the city.

Participants have pre-registered to attend. If space is still available, onsite registration is available during regular registration at the convention center. First come, first served, so register early!

Cafe Reconcile 2 p.m. & 4 p.m.

CC Room TBD

Participants will learn first-hand how a community of concerned people committed to address the system of generational poverty, violence and neglect in the New Orleans area came together to create an innovative life skills and job training program.

Participants will also have the opportunity to sample delicious New Orleans food. Participants will be bussed from the Morial Convention Center to Cafe Reconcile.

Mardi Gras World Sun.: 4 p.m.

Mon./Tues.: 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.

CC Room TBD

Participants will learn more about this unique New Orleans celebration and season. Participants will tour the Mardi Gras World facilities and see firsthand the hard work and extensive planning that goes into this city-wide event.

Participants will meet in a room at the Morial Convention Center and walk to Mardi Gras World.

New Orleans Jazz Market 12 p.m.

CC Room TBD

How can music shape a city and nation?

Learn more about New Orleans jazz and its place as an American music tradition. Participants will be bused from the Morial Convention Center to the Jazz Market.

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

World War II Museum 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.

Meet at museum

Do you think of New Orleans when you think of World War II? Find out more about the city’s connection to the American war effort. From the website, “The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world: why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today so that all generations will understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.” Participants will be given instructions about when and where to meet at the Museum.

Bible Study Academy

Studying the Scriptures is an important part of the LCMS Youth Gathering.

The Bible Study Academy is a special opportunity to dig deeper into the study of the Word. Academy sessions offer intensive, interactive Bible studies with pastors, professionals and college professors who are experts in their fields. You will be challenged, encouraged, and engaged.

NOTE: When you sign up for Academy, you are committing to attend three days in a row. Please plan your schedule accordingly.

Time and location information will be available on the app and at on-site Academy registration.

In this Academy, we will discuss what it’s like to have a vocation in a field that is full of non-believers and atheists.

We will discuss why our beliefs as Christians need not be based solely on faith, but also on reason and rational thought. We will explore ways of defending and sharing our faith to people who are skeptical of anything that can’t be proven by modern-day science and mathematics.

academy

Being a Christian in Science and Math Dr. Christopher Schroeder

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academy 56

Called to Serve our Nation in the Military Chaplain Craig Muehler

Are you feeling the call to serve in the military? Are you unsure how you can serve and keep your faith and conscience clear? What is the law of war and how does it relate to the Bible? Can a member of our military kill someone? How about lying and deceiving the enemy? Our three sessions together will be packed with Bible study, a look at historical events and case studies from real combat situations by Chaplain Muehler.

Islam 101 Dr. Adam Francisco

Islam is the world’s second largest and fastest growing religion. What do Muslims really believe? What do they do at their mosques? Why do many of them insist Islam is a peaceful religion while others say it’s violent? Participants will gain a basic knowledge of where Islam came from, what it teaches, and how Muslim people might be approached with the Gospel.

Me, a Professional Church Worker?!?

Professional Church Work Panel

Is God calling you to professional church work? Do you feel called to serve, but you don’t really know what God is calling you to do? Meet a variety of professional church workers and learn about the many gifts and talents you may be called to use in serving Christ and His Church. Find out what it’s really like to work in full time ministry.

Mercy, Witness, Life Together Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison

These phrases — Witness, Mercy, Life Together — illustrate how the church lives and works together to proclaim the Gospel and to provide for our brothers and sisters in Christ in our congregations, communities and throughout the world. And in all we do, Christ is at the center, leading us, sustaining us, keeping us focused on our mission. This will never change.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

We’ll explore the way that the Church’s worship always centers on the Lamb: from Genesis through Revelation. At the center of the people’s worship is the gift of the Sacrificed Lamb, pouring out His blood to cover sin and reaching us to share in His divine life. It’s this worship that all people hunger and thirst for without even realizing it.

The Waiting Room: Jesus’ Healing Ministry in a World Filled With Emergencies Dr. Sarah Matthias

This Academy will work through some healing miracles recorded in the gospel of Mark. A paralytic, a bleeding woman, a girl on her death bed and a demon-possessed boy all encounter the great physician, Jesus. We will reflect on how the lessons of Jesus are essential to those preparing for or practicing in a healthcare field.

Searching for “The Secret”: A study of Paul’s Letter to the Philippians Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer

Google “The Secret” and you’ll find a variety of links that promise to reveal the new or ancient “key” to true happiness, success, and selfenlightenment. Almost 2000 years ago, a prisoner facing execution in a Roman jail wrote: “I have learned THE SECRET of being content in any and every situation” (Phil. 4:12). What was that secret? Can it work for you and me?

Join us for an invigorating study of one of the most personal, passionate, and powerful books of the New Testament: St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians.

Witness Academy Rev. Mark Wood

Do you wish you knew how to share the faith with your friends, teammates, and coworkers? Do you feel frustrated or intimidated about bringing up Jesus in conversation? Do you worry if someone asks you questions about your faith, you won’t know what to say? In this Academy, participants will engage in three days of training the LASSIE approach to sharing Jesus with people in our everyday lives, including hitting the streets of New Orleans for some real-life experience.

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academy

The Lamb at the Center: The Worship God Accepts Rev. William Weedon

concerts

Concerts Connect with positive music in a high energy setting. The following concerts are offered throughout the Gathering and open to all participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Concerts take place on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

Crowder CC Great hall 4:00 p.m.: Concert

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Remedy Drive CC La Nouvelle 12:00 p.m.: Opens for Bob Lenz 2:00 p.m.: Concert 4:00 p.m.: Opens for Craig Gross

Lost and Found CC Theater 12:00 p.m.: Opens for David Dean 2:00 p.m.: Opens for Pam Stenzel Before Mass Event: Champions Square

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

Bread of Stone CC 243-245 12:00 p.m.: Opens for Bill Yonker 2:00 p.m.: Opens for Ken Chitwood 4:00 p.m.: Opens for Bill Yonker

Tangled Blue CC Hall E Stage 11:30 a.m.: Concert 1:30 p.m.: Concert 3:30 p.m.: Concert Before Mass Event: Champions Square

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concerts

Concordia University Irvine Praise Band CC 343-345 12:00 p.m.: Opens for Joel Beyer 2:00 p.m.: Opens for Joel Beyer 4:00 p.m.: Opens for Micah Parker

<<< To Poydras

& Canal

Convention Center Level 1, Halls B-F

To Riverwalk Mall >>>

Julia Street

Great Hall

Entrance from Great Hall

Entrance

Hall B

Youth Booth

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Convention Ce nter Boule

Entrance

Hall C

vard

Exhibitors & District Booths

Experiential Learning Center

60 Hall D Entrance

Hall E

Gaga Pits Volleyball Basketball Hamster Balls Soccer Board Games Soccer Billiards

Info Booth

First Aid Station

Concession Stand

Entrance

Hall F

-

Recreation -

Lost and Found

LCEF Exchange

Badminton Giant Jenga Wiffle Ball 9 Square in the Air Bean Bag Toss Obstacle Course Inflatable

experiential center map

Experiential Learning Center Welcome to the Experiential Learning Center located on the first floor of the convention center in Halls B-E. This area provides hands-on experiences for you to grow in identity, humility and community in Christ alone. The Experiential Center is open Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Not sure where to begin? Head over to the Youth Booth in Hall B! Youth Ministry in The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod is more than the LCMS Youth Gathering every three years! The Youth Booth is the place to find out more about Youth and Young Adult Ministry. Located conveniently as you enter the convention center in Hall B, there is something for everyone.

• Take the Lutheran Youth Fellowship Youth Poll. It’s a chance to

share your opinions and perspectives on issues and concerns of

teens and the church. And, you receive a prize for completing the

poll! Plus, it is a great place to recharge your devices.

• Come greet Terry Dittmer as he prepares for retirement. He will

be hosting sing-alongs throughout the afternoon.

• Make a fleece hat to be distributed to Phil’s Friends and others

around the United States through LCMS Servant Events.

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• Take a break and color with a friend. You will receive a one-of-

a-kind coloring book filled with past Gathering logos and special

coloring sheets of Walther and Luther.

• Check out LCMS Young Adult ministries: Lutheran Young

Adult Corps, LCMS U, Ministry to the Armed Forces, and Young

Adult Servant Events. Meet the leaders of these awesome

ministries and grab more information about how you can grow

in faith, fellowship, and service through your 20s and beyond.

• Become a prayer partner. At our prayer fabric station, you can

write personal prayers on a piece of cloth with the young adult

ministry logos. Drop your prayer request off, take one to tie on

your bag, and be encouraged in and through prayer.

• Resources. Learn about the YouthESource, upcoming events and

other LCMS Youth Ministry happenings. Pick up a free copy of

thESource Unplugged, a magazine of YouthESource resources

tied to the Gathering’s theme.

experiential center

• Find out where the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering will be held.

7 Entrance

6

experiential center

Experiential Learning Center CC Halls B-C

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

Entrance

5 3

2

Entrance from Great Hall

1

4

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Experiential Learning Center: CC Hall B-C Highlights 1.) LeadaChild/Walk for Water

Engage in an interactive awareness area focused on global issues related to clean water, shoes and education. Learn how you can sponsor a child, teacher, or school through LeadaChild’s partnership programs.

2.) Christmas in July

Food pantries, social service agencies and other non-profits find December to be one of their biggest months for donations of needed resources. July can be one of the times when their need for resources can be the greatest and their supply shelves nearly empty. Help us create “Christmas in July” and meet these basic needs for New Orleans’ agencies by organizing and assembling kits from items donated by Gathering participants. Please see the Gathering website for items to bring and donate.

3.) Feeding Children Everywhere

Pack nutritious meals to feed hungry people all over the world. Staff from Feeding Children Everywhere will provide the supplies and guide you in your service. Gathering participants will pack 500,000 meals! Please note: Many of the packing opportunities will be reserved for those who preregistered for on-site servant events.

4.) Life as a Refugee

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What would you do if you had to leave your home, city, or even country because your life was in danger? What would you encounter? Where would you find food and shelter? Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service will walk you through the experience of a refugee.

5.) Youth Booth

See page 61 for more details.

Grab your friends and come play large-sized versions of classic games.

7.) The Life Journey of Paul: A Story of Sin, Forgiveness, and Mission

The life of Paul becomes an art piece over 200 feet long! Sign up in Hall C next to the art piece to participate in painting one of the 1,000 canvases that will be used in the art piece. This is a one-hour interactive experience that focuses on sin and forgiveness.

experiential center

6.) Giant Game Alley

Entrance

6

7

5

experiential center

Experiential Learning Center CC Halls D-E

1

3

2

4

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Experiential Learning Center: CC Hall D-E Highlights 1.) Main Stage

Interact all day with our host who will share Gathering info, play crowd games like “What’s Up on the Big Screen”, and do meet and greets with various bands and speakers.

2.) Mardi Gras Floats

Come experience a New Orleans tradition and a great photo opp for you and your friends on actual Mardi Gras floats! Don’t miss the daily Mardi Gras Band Parade at 11:00 a.m. and Float Parade at 1:00 p.m.

3.) Life Ministry

The LCMS is devoted to upholding the sanctity of human life, both in our church body and the culture at large. Come learn about ways you can support women, families, and children through crisis pregnancy centers, providing life educational materials and opportunities, and honest talk about life decisions and our culture. Bring a team to join in the life relay race!

4.) 7 Stations of Philippians

Friends and enemies, jail and death. These are all things Paul writes about in his letter to the Philippians. Walk through the 7 Stations of Philippians to learn more about what Paul was writing about. Did we mention a pie in the face? Bring your Adult Leader over for this one!

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5.) Habitat for Humanity

Build the framework of two houses for two families in New Orleans with Habitat for Humanity.

Grab your friends for a photo opp in front of the Wittenberg Castle Doors.

Then, go inside to help transcribe part of the Bible that will be used in the Gathering Worship Service. You can also translate your favorite verse and talk to missionaries from Lutheran Bible Translators who work to translate God’s Word into languages that don’t have written Bibles.

7.) Paul Stage

Meet Paul and Lydia and help them tell the story about a jailor named Marcus (12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.). Come early or stay after the drama to hear musical offerings by Tangled Blue.

experiential center

6.) Wittenberg Castle Doors and Handwritten Bible

exhibitors

Exhibitors Interact with LCMS ministries, LCMS Registered Service Organizations, LCMS colleges and universities, seminaries and other ministry organizations at their booths. Exhibitors are located in CC Hall B-D. Alaska Mission for Christ Beta Sigma Psi Lutheran Fraternity Bethesda Lutheran Communities Camp Luther Camp Restore/RAI Ministries Christian Friends of New Americans Concordia Publishing House Concordia University System: Concordia College Alabama Concordia University Ann Arbor Concordia University Irvine Concordia University Portland Concordia University Texas

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Concordia College-New York Concordia University Chicago Concordia University Nebraska Concordia University St. Paul Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia Seminary Concordia Theological Seminary Crosswise Institute Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Educational Enterprises Higher Things Idaho Servant Adventures KINDLE LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces LCMS Servant Events LCMS U LCMS Youth Ministry Lutheran Bible Translators Lutheran Campus Mission Association Lutheran Church Extension Fund Lutheran Federal Credit Union Lutheran Friends of the Deaf Lutheran Hour Ministries Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Lutheran Young Adult Corps Lutheran Youth Fellowship Lutherans For Life Lutheran World Relief MinistryFocus National Association of Directors of Christian Education National Lutheran Outdoors Ministry Association Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ Phil’s Friends Thrivent Financial Water to Thrive YouthESource Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

District Booths Did you know The Lutheran Church–Mission Synod is made up of 35 districts that represent local congregations for all 50 states? Many districts have created a special activity for participants to enjoy at their District Booth. Grab a friend with a QR code reader on their phone and take part in the Backpack Scavenger Hunt benefiting local schools.

To participate in the Backpack Scavenger hunt, go to the pop-up tent located at the entrance of the District Booth area in Hall C. There you will receive a Gathering backpack and your first clue. Follow the clue to its corresponding booth, pick up the school supply and scan the QR code to receive your next clue.

You can also use the Gathering app to participate in the scavenger points; it’s part of the Gathering Game. Inside the app, go to Gathering Game – District Booth Scavenger Hunt and begin playing. Unlock a badge at each booth by scanning the QR code. Earn 10 bonus points by collecting all 17 school supplies!

Once you’ve packed the backpack, return it to the tent.

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district booths

Districts with booths at this year’s Gathering include: Atlantic New England California/Nevada/Hawaii New Jersey North Central Illinois Wisconsin Eastern Northern Illinois English Ohio Oklahoma Florida/Georgia Pacific Southwest Indiana Rocky Mountain Iowa East SELC Iowa West South Dakota Kansas South Wisconsin Michigan Southeastern Mid-South Southern Minnesota North Southern Illinois Minnesota South Texas Missouri Nebraska

district events

District Events Connect with other people from your district and explore more of New Orleans at these district-sponsored event. Some events required pre-registration.

Atlantic, California – Nevada- Hawaii, & Pacific Southwest Districts July 19 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Mardi Gras World

Central Illinois & South Dakota Districts

July 16 | 2:00 p.m. | Steamboat Natchez Cruise

Eastern & New Jersey Districts

July 17 | 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Ducote Design

English District

July 20 | 2:30 p.m. | New Orleans Steamboat Company

Florida-Georgia District

July 17 | 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Mardi Gras World

Indiana District

July 19 | 10:30 p.m. – Midnight | Club Lounge at Superdome

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Iowa East District & Iowa West Districts

July 20 | 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Creole Queen Riverboat Cruise

Kansas District

July 16 | 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Bayou Barn

Michigan District

July 18 | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. | Ducote Designs

Mid-South District

July 17 | 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Club Lounge at the Superdome –

Masquerade Casino Night

Minnesota North District & Minnesota South Districts July 16 | Noon – 2:00 p.m. | House of Blues

Missouri District

July 16 | 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Mardi Gras World

Montana & Wyoming Districts

July 16 | 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. | Swamp Tour

Nebraska District

July 16 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | The Joy Theater

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

New England District

July 18 | 11:30 a.m. | Steamboat Natchez Cruise

North Dakota District

July 17 | Worship and Breakfast

North Wisconsin District

July 15 | 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Mardi Gras World

Northern Illinois District

July 18 | After Mass Event | Superdome

Northwest District

July 16 | 11:30 a.m. | Steamboat Natchez Cruise

Ohio District

July 19 | 10:00 p.m. | Steamboat Natchez Cruise

Oklahoma District

July 17 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. | House of Blues

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Rocky Mountain District

July 18 | 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. | House of Blues

SELC District

July 20 | 6:00 p.m. | ACME Oyster House

South Wisconsin District

July 15 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Swamp Tour

Southeastern District Southern District

July 18 | 5:45 – 7:45 p.m. | The Joy Theater

Southern Illinois District

July 16 | 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Mardi Gras World

Texas District

July 16 | 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Creole Queen Riverboat Cruise

district events

July 17 | 5:00 p.m. | The Joy Theater

night life

Night Life Night Life events include concerts, games and dancing (dance lessons). All events are subject to change so check out the Gathering app for any updates. Night Life takes place from 10:30 p.m. - Midnight.

Saturday, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday @ 10:30 p.m. - Midnight Large Group Games | Embassy Suites New Orleans Fountainbleu Ballroom Ever want to throw a rubber chicken at your friend? Here is your chance! Come be part of several games such as rubber chicken dodge.

Country Theme Dance Party | JW Marriott: Ile de France Ballroom Get your two steppin’ and line dancing on! Come enjoy the country/western dance; learn new dance moves from our dance instructors, test your lasso skills, and have horse races with your friends.

Salsa Dance Party | Westin New Orleans Canal Place: Magnolia Ballroom Get in the conga line! Come enjoy the salsa/tropical dance and learn new dance moves from our dance instructors.

Hip Hop Dance Party | Marriott Convention Center: Blaine Kern Ballroom Experience this glow in the dark dance party! Come learn from our dance instructors some new hip hop/dubstep moves.

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Life Size Games | Renaissance Arts: Patron Ballroom Bring some friends and compete in these games of skill and absurdity!

Saturday & Monday @ 10:30 p.m. - Midnight Bingo & Trivia | InterContinental Frenchman Ballroom Come play in a raging game of bingo with your fellow friends and Gathering buddies or test out your random knowledge in our Gathering trivia contest. Form teams and compete against others to be crowned the trivia champion!

Sunday & Tuesday @ 10:30 p.m. - Midnight Speed Meeting & Talent Show | InterContinental Frenchman Ballroom Come meet Gathering participants from across the country and share your talents!

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

A special note about Night Life activities at the Hilton Riverside, Hyatt Regency, Marriott New Orleans, and Sheraton New Orleans: For safety and capacity reasons, we ask that on Saturday and Tuesday nights, activities in these four properties be attended by guests of these hotels ONLY. Ballrooms do not have capacity to hold more people than the guests in these properties. Activities in these hotels can be attended by any Gathering participant on Sunday and Monday.

Late Night Gathering | Sheraton New Orleans: Grand Ballroom Saturday (Sheraton Guests Only), Sunday, Monday, Tuesday (Sheraton Guests Only) Our late night host can’t wait to have you battle him head-to-head in games like Slap Jack, , Box of Lies and more! Bring your whole group for the ultimate Lip Sync Battle!

321 Improv | Hyatt Regency: Celestin Ballroom Saturday (Hyatt Regency Guests Only) David Dean | Hilton Riverside: HEC A-C & Hyatt Regency: Celestin Ballroom Saturday (Hilton Riverside Guests Only); Sunday and Monday (Hyatt Regency), Tuesday (Hyatt Regency Guests Only) Come laugh all night with this witty comedian who is sure to put a smile on your face.

Lost & Found Concert | Marriott New Orleans: Mardi Gras Ballroom Saturday (Marriott Guests Only) Don’t forget to bring your slinky to this incredible concert of “speedwood” music.

No prior experience required!

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Zak Mirzadeh, Illusionist | Marriott New Orleans: Mardi Gras Ballroom Sunday and Monday Prepare to be amazed and on the edge of your seat! This up close look will have your entire group in awe.

Glow Party with Room 211 Band | Hilton Riverside: HEC A-C Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (Hilton Guests Only) Enjoy this multi-sensory concert in the dark! Get ready to GLOW!

night life

Tangled Blue | Marriott New Orleans: Mardi Gras Ballroom Tuesday (Marriott Guests Only) End your evening with Tangled Blue’s caffeinated, folk-rock blend of songs.

dome events

Dome Events General Information Mass Events and the Worship Service at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome Doors Open The doors to the Mercedes –Benz Superdome will open one hour before the event begins (7:30 p.m./8:30 a.m.).

Champions Square Saturday-Tuesday evenings, entertainment will be available at Champions Square prior to the opening of the doors. Beverage sales will be available at Champions Square and on the Plaza Level outside the dome. Enhanced food options will be available on Saturday, the opening night, for later arriving groups. Concessions will not be available on Wednesday morning.

Floor Seating Everyone will have an opportunity to have a seat on the floor of the dome.

Each evening a portion of Gathering participants will have exclusive access to the floor and floor activities. There will be a separate “Floor Seating Entrance” to the dome at Gate G which is on the west side of the dome (see map). Each participant’s wristband has a secondary color. Only one color will be admitted through the floor seating entrance each evening and follow the signs to “Floor Seating Gate G”.

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Wristbands with these secondary colors will be allowed in this order: Saturday night: Yellow wristbands Sunday night: Black wristbands Monday night: White wristbands Tuesday night: Green wristbands Wednesday Worship is open seating. Open entrances will be for all participants.

Food Service Concessions will be open in the evenings (only) at the Superdome during the one hour warm-up. Sodas, bottled water and other stadium food (chicken tenders, nachos, hot dogs, french fries) will be available for purchase.

Food Restrictions The Mercedes-Benz Superdome will not allow participants to bring meals into the Superdome. Personal water containers will be allowed, and please keep it to one per person. Limited, individually wrapped snacks will be allowed for those with health concerns.

Bag Check In addition to going through turn-stiles, you will be asked to open all backpacks for inspection. Also, the Superdome requires that ONLY official Gathering backpacks be brought to the Superdome. Please help to expedite the entrance process by having your bag opened allowing the security personnel to check your bags and backpacks. Also, if applicable, groups might consider consolidating backpacks for the evening program.

Parking at the Dome Parking at the Dome is available for vehicles for $20.00. Use Parking Lot 6 on the North side of the Dome accessed from Sugar Bowl Lane.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

dome map

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Special Needs and Special Guests Entrance (Ground Level)

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Mass Event Key Faces Rev. Jeffrey Meinz graduated from Concordia University Nebraska in 1996 and has served at Walcamp Outdoor Ministries (Kingston, IL) and Holy Cross Lutheran Church (Colorado Springs, CO). He’s been married to Amy for 18 years. They have six amazing children.

Jeffrey loves the 2016 Champion Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

His humorous messages serve as a springboard for proclaiming God’s truth from the Bible. Along with Abi Tesfaye, Meinz is a Gathering Mass Event emcee.

Abigail Tesfaye was born and raised in Houston, TX, making her the first person in her family to be born in America.

A daughter of Eritrean immigrants, she saw firsthand the unique joys and struggles that come with multicultural ministry. This led her to pursue a Religious Education major at Concordia University Texas. Abi graduated in April and will begin her director of Christian education internship at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hayward, CA in August. Connect with Abi throughout the Gathering via Facebook: Abi Tesfaye, Instagram: @abitesfaye, or Twitter: @abi_ tesfaye. Along with Jeffrey Meinz, Tesfaye is a Gathering Mass Event emcee.

Rev. Matt Popovits serves as pastor of Our Saviour New York (OSNY) a family of parishes, in Manhattan and Queens, working together to serve New York City. Matt is also the host of “The Spiritual Howcast” on YouTube, which offers insightful yet simple answers to the spiritual questions of skeptical people.

He and his high school sweetheart, Lisa, proudly live in the borough of Queens with their two children, Ava and Jack Matthew. Be sure to connect with Matt throughout the Gathering via Twitter: @ MattPopovits, Instagram: @mpopovits, or Snapchat: @mattpopovits.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Mass Event Key Faces

Decapolis Theatre Ministry is proud to represent Concordia University Chicago (CUC) Department of Theatre. It is the goal of Decapolis to recognize and enrich the talents that God has given them and utilize those talents in the production of theatrical works that glorify His name.

They seek to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and help others discover and/ or deepen their personal relationship with the Living God. Decapolis performers are students at CUC and directed by David Knoell, artist-in-residence at CUC Dept. of Theatre.

Paul Soupiset is creative director of The H. E. Butt Family Foundation and owner of Soupiset Design. Paul is an artist, draughtsman, sketchbook-keeper, graphic designer, live-sketcher, musician, and poet from San Antonio. Paul and his wife Amy have four amazing kids. See more of Paul’s work at paulsoupiset.com. Soupiset will be live-sketching each Mass Event to create a memorable take home banner for Gathering congregations.

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Rick Smith, portraying the Apostle Paul Rick Smith has been a Chicago-based actor for over a decade and has appeared on stage (Metropolis Center, Lifeline Theater, IO Theater), commercials (Verlo Mattress, Trane AC, Bojangles), and television (Chicago PD). He is the host of the National Safety Council’s online series, mycardoeswhat.org As a lifelong Chicago football fan, he is thrilled to perform in the same place where his beloved ’85 Bears won the Super Bowl.

Smith will be portraying the Apostle Paul throughout the Mass Events.

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House Band Adam Countryman is the House Band director for the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering. He currently serves as director of worship at Concordia Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX. You can connect with Adam on Twitter @countrymanadam or send him an email at countrymanmusic@ gmail.com

House Band

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Adam Countryman, Vocals and Acoustic Guitar; San Antonio, TX Nicoya Polar, Lead Vocals; Houston, TX David Rudd, Bass Guitar; Houston, TX Nolan Burke, Guitars; Houston, TX Tyson Sheth, Drums; Houston, TX Charles Horsford, Percussion; Santurce, Puerto Rico Dave Madden, Piano and Electric Guitar; Austin, TX TJ Winters, Keyboards and Programming; San Antonio, TX Jon Jordening, House Band Advisor; Irvine, CA

Concordia University Irvine Student Singers Ariel McMahon Brandon Li Paige McCauley

Download the 2016 Gathering Playlist: www.lcmsgathering.com/songs or snap the QR code here >>>

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

Saturday night

Joy in Christ Alone In Christ alone our joy is found! We open the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering with a high energy celebration to be remembered. Tonight we explore what it means to have the true joy, the kind of joy that stays no matter what, the kind of joy Paul saw when he looked at the cross, the kind of joy that is ours in Christ alone.

Shanna Decker Shanna Decker, a 25-year old who hails from Minnesota, has seen the depths of great loss in her life but has walked valiantly in the joy of Jesus Christ. She loves her family, sports, laughter and spending time with kids. She has been awarded 9 national awards for volunteerism and was named the top youth volunteer in America in 2008. She is joining the Gathering for her second time as a speaker this year and has been speaking professionally since the age of 8. Shanna will tell you, though, that her life is not about her. Her life is about who she is in Christ alone.

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Sunday night

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Identity in Christ Alone

Who are you? A gamer? An athlete? An artist? An adventurer? A Christian?

Tonight through music, drama, art, and technology we consider what it means to find identity in Christ alone.

Rev. Tige Culbertson loves his Bible open, his food spicy, and his Jeep muddy! He is driven to share the passion and promises of Jesus to hurting people in relational and life-changing ways. He serves as the founding pastor of Restoration Fellowship, a new church in Midland, MI, reaching families recovering from addiction. By too many miracles to count, he is married to his beautiful wife, Sara, and is daddy to his incredible 10-year-old daughter, Faith.

Sara Culbertson is a native Michigander, and her heart is deeply connected to the Great Lakes, fall colors, and the crackle of a campfire! She is a behavior analyst at Community Mental Health in Midland, MI, and she loves helping people with autism live better lives.

We are blessed to have the talents of Fasm, otherwise known as Aaron Vickery, on the stage tonight. Armed with a spray can and his God-given gifts, he has been producing graffiti art since the early 1990’s. He uses his art to give viewers an eternal perspective to a world that needs Jesus.

Written to Speak (Tanner Olson) Written to Speak is a spoken word and writing project created by Tanner Olson.

Tanner, a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin, has released two spoken word albums and spoken at various conferences, universities, and churches. Follow Tanner at @tannerjolson on Instagram or Twitter | writtentospeak.com

Sunday Mass Event Plus: Rend Collective

Stick around after Sunday night’s Mass Event for Mass Event Plus – a concert with Rend Collective! Rend Collective is a Christian folk rock band originating from Bangor, Northern Ireland. They are currently on tour featuring their fifth album, As Family We Go, which was released in August 2015.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Monday night

Humility in Christ Alone The world’s version of humility involves serving and loving others as long as we get the credit or can get a seriously amazing pic for Instagram. But true humility never points to us. Christ alone is the true embodiment of humility, and Paul calls all of us to be an echo of that humility. Tonight we’ll explore what it means to be an echo of the One who humbled Himself for us.

Shelli Haynes, DCE is a California girl. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, she roots for the Giants, Niners, and Warriors!

Shelli has served as a director of Christian education for 20 years in Southern California and currently lives in Anaheim with her sweet husband, Travis, and two amazing daughters, Megan and Mandy. She holds a Masters of Arts from Concordia University Nebraska in Family Ministry and loves reading, the beach, and walking her dog, Lucy.

Tommy Woodard and Eddie James are The Skit Guys. They have been best friends since high school. Think of them as the wise guys in class who had everyone laughing and managed to make a career out of it. They’ve been teaching God’s word using comedy, drama and whatever category talking action figures fit into for over twenty years.

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Monday Mass Event Plus: The Skit Guys

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Stick around after Monday night’s Mass Event for Mass Event Plus – an additional hour of fun with The Skit Guys!

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Tuesday night

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Community in Christ Alone The Church is a beautiful, diverse, messy community. It is a community that spans time and space. Tonight we explore what it means to be this community—a place to receive and to practice grace with one another. In Christ, we are never alone.

Benjamin Helge currently serves as a missionary in the Czech Republic through The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Office of International Mission. He shares the Gospel by teaching conversational English, organizing mission opportunities, and working with a local church plant in the community. He is from Albuquerque, NM, and graduated from Concordia University Irvine in 2011 with a B.A. in Music with an emphasis in Education. He sings, travels, cooks, bakes, and plays volleyball whenever he can. Connect with him on Instagram @helgeonthemove Tomáš Přeček is a high school senior from Havířov, Czech Republic, who heard God’s call at the beginning of 2015 after he met Benjamin Helge. Tomáš is living proof of God’s amazing mercy as he became a servant from an overconfident rebel. He currently helps Benjamin with leading English Talk Group. He has a passion for understanding foreign cultures, debate and getting to know strangers.

Rev. Gregory Manning was born in Fort Wayne, IN and graduated from Wabash College majoring in Theater and Religion.

In 2000, he was ordained as a pastor in The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.

Manning is honored to serve as pastor of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in the heart of the Crescent City of New Orleans. His Godgiven mission is to help build a multi-ethnic church that is like a Louisiana gumbo with a little bit of everything. Manning serves as an international speaker where he has proclaimed the message that each of us can do all things through Christ, as far south as Australia and as far north as Norway. To God be all the glory.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Wednesday Morning Worship Service Our Gathering experience culminates and ends where our humble Savior serves us in Word and Sacrament. In the Divine Service, we hear of our identity as forgiven sinners and righteous saints in Christ.

We gather as Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community, the church, to again be refreshed and strengthened in Christ alone. We are sent out, back home, to serve our friends and communities and to give thanks and praise to the One who has begun a good work in us and look forward to its completion at the day of Christ Jesus.

Post-Worship Closing Following worship, we will close out the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering with a sending to remember. We will spend a few minutes celebrating the week and preparing to go back out into the world in Christ alone.

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BradAlles Helping Christians defend their faith and explain their worldview

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Three easy ways to bring Brad back with you after the Gathering:

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Big questions

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sponsors Christ Academy High School and Phoebe Academy High School

84 Christ Academy and Phoebe Academy High School events are great opportunities for young men and women to dig deeper into the theology and practice of the Church, from confirmation age through high school.

New Alpha and Beta week options give more flexibility for Christ Academy men to attend for just one week or both weeks, and now Phoebe Academy High School is a full-week program for young women.

Contact: Rev. Lannon Martin ChristAcademy@ctsfw.edu

www.ctsfw.edu/PAHS or www.ctsfw.edu/CA 800-481-2155

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

T h is w a s K i r k fo u r y e a r s ago.

N o w I m g o in g t o s e r v e God in the world!

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Taste of the Sem

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(For high school guys only)

June 21-26, 2014

January 18-20, 2014

Ready to register? Visit www.csl.edu or call 800-822-9545.

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Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.

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YOUR WORLD OPENS UP FROM HERE Open up your possibilities for a successful career and a life of purpose at Concordia University Chicago.

Explore our Christian liberal arts-based university, offering more than 70 undergraduate programs in the arts and sciences, business and education, including LCMS church professional programs.

NEW! B.S. in Computer Science Stop by the Concordia-Chicago booth for fun giveaways and to learn about Careers for Christ 2016.

CUC Alumni Reception | July 19, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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Do you have eyes of life?

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We're taking a 360° look at life!

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#thisis MYchurch Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

I love my family.

I love school.

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101 What would you do if you were forced to flee your home? www.LIRS.org @LIRSorg Find@LIRSorg out at the LIRS “No Place to Go” exhibit on the Experiential Learning Floor.

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We Serve ◊ ◊ ◊ We Worship ◊ ◊ ◊ We Gather ◊ ◊ ◊ We Pray f LCMSYouthMinistry u @lcmsyouth

#thisis MYchurch Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

2016 LCMS Youth Gathering Acknowledgements God continues to bless the efforts of the LCMS Youth Gathering through the gifts and work of many people from across the country. The Gathering could not happen without such support. We are grateful for those whose names are listed below and others whose names we may have inadvertently failed to list.

Board of Directors Dr. Victor Belton James Carter Jr. Dr. Gloria Edwards Edwin Everts Keith Frndak Rev. Michael Kumm, Chairperson Christian Prues Warren Puck Kathy Schulz Dr. Kurt Senske Thompson Coburn LLP, Legal Counsel LCMS Board for National Missions Rev. Steven Briel, Chairman Great Plains Region Carla Claussen, NYG Advisor Great Plains Region Rev. Samuel Cosby West-Southwest Region Rev. Timothy Droegemueller East-Southeast Region Rev. Alfonso Espinosa West-Southwest Region Ernest Garbe Central Region Julia Habrecht East-Southeast Region Martha Milas Central Region Gary Quick Central Region Linda Stoterau West-Southwest Region Shaina Mitchell Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Representative LCMS Office of National Mission Rev. Bart Day, Executive Director Matthew Bergholt Dcs. Sandy Bowers Robbie Clasen Rev. Heath Curtis

Amy Gerdts Rev. Roosevelt Gray Susan Green Dcs. Maryann Hayter Rev. Joel Hempel Rev. Carlos Hernandez Rev. Ross Johnson Rev. Todd Kollbaum Dcs. Dorothy Krans Rev. Nathan Meador Rev. Michael Meyer Stephanie Neugebauer Aaron Nielsen Dcs. Cara Patton Tracy Quaethem Rev. Steven Schave Rebecca Schmidt Terry Schmidt Barb Temples Rev. William Weedon Maria Winsborough Annette Woehlke Rev. Mark Wood Rev. Marcus Zill LCMS Youth Ministry Rev. Mark Kiessling, Director Robyn Armbrust, DCE Rev. Dr. Terry Dittmer Amy Gray Jim Lohman, DCE Renee Lorenz Krista Miller Kyla Rodriguez, DCE Julianna Shults, DCE Kaysie Corbett, Intern Contracted: Sherrah Behrens, YouthESource Jessica Bordeleau, LYF

LCMS Partners LCMS Executive Offices Special thanks to these staff members:

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acknowledgments

Officers of the Synod Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison Saint Louis, MO President Rev. Dr. Herbert Mueller Waterloo, IL First Vice President Dr. John Wohlrabe, Jr.

Great Lakes Region Second Vice President Rev. Daniel Preus Central Region Third Vice President Dr. Scott Murray

West-Southwest Region Fourth Vice President Rev. Nabil Nour Fifth Vice President Great Plains Region Christopher Esget East-Southeast Region Sixth Vice President Rev. Dr. Raymond Hartwig Saint Louis, MO Secretary Ronald Schultz Saint Louis, MO Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Jerry Wulf Saint Louis, MO Chief Financial Officer

Rev. Kevin Robson

Saint Louis, MO Chief Mission Officer

LCMS Office of the President Rev. Jon Vieker Kim Vieker Barb Below Rachel Asburry

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LCMS Chief Admission Officer LCMS Human Resources Ron Schultz Val Rhoden-Kimbrough, Executive Rebekah Pratt Director Dcs. Kim Shave Special thanks to these staff members: Vencine Bush LCMS Chief Mission Officer Tami Greminger Rev. Kevin Robson Kathy Milner Jeannie Smithson Kim Presley Nathan Thomas LCMS Risk Management and Insurance Denise Webb, Executive Director LCMS Information Technology Bert Buchanan Myron Koehn, Executive Director Angela Statum Sam Ambrose Jim Balcer LCMS Treasurer Richard Engel Jerry Wulf Gina Grosz Marie Muhlke Van Heins Mike Kamp Concordia University System Jennifer Knight Rev. Dean Wenthe, President Josh Merseal William Meyer Mike Metcalf Rev. Paul Philp Sabrina Outlaw Frank Reinsel LCMS Accounting Joel Rivers Ross Stroh, Executive Director Charlie Sebold Tina Vasques, On-site support John Stimpson Special thanks to these staff members: Donna Sweet Gerry Alimagno Doug Traxler Tani Berner Pat Ulmer Gary Callies Murel Warren Jr. Melissa Corbett Kevin Wudtke Kristen Cully Jim Ehlers LCMS Mission Advancement Bill Goetz Mark Hofman, Executive Director Helen Lamb Special thanks to these staff members: Mike Magee Brianne Gerzevske Karen Sansone Mary Hamilton Sandra Schultheis Leah Sieveking Bradley Wood LCMS Communications David Strand, Executive Director LCMS Operation Services Special thanks to these staff members: Special thanks to these staff members: Rudy Blank Marlene Bush Becky Cummings Ryan Curnutt Roger Drinnon Barb Knehans Jennifer Duffy Brian Kohler Diane Grimm Scott Kostencki Joe Isenhower Lynne Marvin Mireya Johnson Chris Morris Anna Karsten Chad Ray Paul Keup Gene Weeke Frank Kohn Eric Lunsford LCMS Southern District Megan Mertz Rev. Kurtis D. Schultz, President Lisa Moeller Cindy Namanny, District Representative Annie Monette Pam Nielsen Joan Pogue Paula Ross Erica Schwan, Graphic Design Peter Slayton Chrissy Thomas

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

Theological Advisor Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer

Saint Louis, MO

Arrangements Tina Hellmers John Hellmers Rhonda Jackson Paul Jackson Greg Nichols Lynn Nichols Susan Tonder

Kenner, LA Kenner, LA Covington, LA Covington, LA Loxley, AL Loxley, AL San Antonio, TX

Bible Study Rev. Peter Nafzger, Director Rev. Jacob Allstaedt Tacoma, WA Gretchen Dolan Coon Rapids, MN Lyla Glaskey, Manager Joplin, MO Kelley Limback Seward, NE Rhonda Nicholas Carthage, MO Timothy Schroeder Almo, KY Community Life Directors Todd Bentz Mark Cook, DCE Audrey Werner, DCE

Hamburg, MN Rochester, MN Saint Louis, MO

Community Life Builders Terri Bentz, Manager Heidi Lewis, DCE, Manager Melissa Luepke, DCE Lindsey Schmidt, DCE

Hamburg, MN Saint Louis, MO Fishers, IN Cottage Grove, MN

Adult Leader Hospitality Laura Stumpf, Manager Lincoln, NE Brittany Busch Minot, ND Signe White, DCE Hailey, ID Adult Care Team David Probst, DCE Jennifer Probst, DCE Night Life

Kristy Haines-Stark, Manager

Elizabeth Cook Allie Mauck Heidi Ross Kenneth Stark Victoria Weaver, DCE

Lafayette, IN Lafayette, IN Portland, OR Rochester, MN Vancouver, WA Topeka, KS Portland, OR Houston, TX

Young Adult Volunteers

Brandon Heath, DCE, Manager La Mesa, CA

Laura Courvoisier, DCE Rev. Seth Moorman Kristen Erixon Rachel Schildwachter Squad Leaders: Mary Leising Samantha Codner Rachel Thies Spencer Owen

Tustin, CA Long Beach, CA Dallas, TX Kissimmee, FL Arapahoe, NE Westwood, NJ Cutler, IL Seward, NE

Convention Center Bobby Bergeron, Space and Visual Design Linda Lohmeyer, Producer Directors Steve Mattoon, DCE, Orange, CA Jim Meyer, DCE, Escondido, CA Audio/Visual Daryl Lohmeyer, DCE, Pacific Palisades, CA Concerts Kimberly Austin, DCE Tomball, TX Rev. Andrew Becker Arnold, MO Josh Blankenship Fort Meyers, FL

Experiential Learning Centers Nick Moss, DCE, Manager Dana Burkey, DCE, Team Lead Phillip Gaylor, DCE, Team Lead Daniel Meyer, DCE, Team Lead Cassise Moore, DCE, Team Lead Jeremy Becker, DCE, 5K Scotte Hansen, DCE Michael Hartley, DCE Jennifer Judge Julie Keeley Tanner Olson Cory Pawlowski Tyler Pawlowski JoAnna Rogers Megan Skelton, DCE Joshua Trapp Exhibitors Debbie Davis, Manager Interest Centers Kristen Beyer, DCO, Manager Kimberlee Cobb Clint Colwell, DCE Rev. Amos Gray Cassie Schermbeck, DCE

Traffic

Rev. Mitchell Gowen District Coordinators Christy Malinowski, Manager Atlantic Rev. Matthew Ryan Gonzalez Rev. Joshua Krepel California-Nevada-Hawaii Jennifer de la Motte, DCE Central Illinois Carissa Hippen, DCE Carmen Yagow Eastern Jamie Knopf, DFLM English Korey Danley, DCE Florida-Georgia Dcs. Amanda Bundy Cindy Hammerstrom Lamar Stewart, DCE Indiana Larry Hencye Sarah Rice, DCE Iowa East Leon Kroemer Randi Petrik, DCE Iowa West Amy Schmidt, DCE Kansas Kate Soeken, DCE Arleata Harmon Michigan Chuck Anderson Randy Bickel Mid-South Tabitha Wildhirt Minnesota North Christopher Brown, DCE Shari Brown Minnesota South Shannon Hecksel Jackie Ohmann, DCE Missouri Mark Engelhardt, DCE Mary Beth Popp, DCE Montana Amanda Adams, DCE Nebraska Scott Guenther Candi Menze Bethany Werner, DCE New England Brenda Bacon New Jersey Alicia De Sena North Dakota Pat Sebastian North Wisconsin Mike Henning, DCE Debbie Vought

Lakeland, FL Lake Forest, CA La Verne, CA Saint Louis, MO Saint Petersburg, FL Plantation, FL La Vista, NE Lexington, KY Thonotosassa, FL Belgrade, MT Nashville, TN Fontana, CA Fontana, CA Lake Forest, CA Winter Park, FL San Jose, CA Saint Louis, MO San Marcos, CA Littleton, CO Concordia, MO Hot Springs, AR Georgetown, TX Aiea, HI Bloomington, IL

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acknowledgments

LCMS Youth Gathering Executive Team Bob Baker, Facilitator Coeur Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Alene, ID Kurt Bickel, DCE Orlando, FL Rev. Derek Broten Stillwater, MN Audrey Werner, DCE Saint Louis, MO Linda Lohmeyer Pacific Palisades, CA Kay McCreery Montgomery, AL Rev. Dr. Peter Nafzger Saint Louis, MO Rev. Bill Wrede Saint Louis, MO

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Northern Illinois Steven Whitney, DCE Joshua Wold, DCE Northwest Jamie Walters, DCE Ohio Karen Dutton Oklahoma Todd Stevens, DCE Suzanne Stewart Watt, DCE Pacific Southwest David Pratt Dave Rueter, DCE Rocky Mountain Doug Ullman Slovak Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELC) Jenna Geyer Rev. Mark Moreno South Dakota Lorien Petersen, DCE South Wisconsin Jenny Wolff Robin Mueller Southeastern Krista Young, DCE Southern Curtis Wiese, DCE Southern Illinois Roger Sprengel Eric Dunn, DCE Texas Grant Carey, DCE Dome Events Dome Events Technical Kurt Bickel, DCE, Technical Producer Orlando, FL Rev. Stevie Benson, Technical Director Baxter, MN Phil Grimpo, Inspirmedia Productions, Lincoln, NE Rick Albrecht Saint Paul, MN Terri Albrecht Saint Paul, MN Carol Bickel Orlando, FL Elizabeth Benson Baxter, MN Carolyn Cake Keene, NH Robert Dobbelaar New Smyrna Beach, FL Leslie Leonard, DCE Largo, FL Rev. Glenn Lucas Irvine, CA Jason Pfeffer Plant City, FL Kay Pfitzinger San Antonio, TX Mark Pfitzinger San Antonio, TX James Wysocki Rockford, IL Inspirmedia Productions, Video Production Lori Beerenstrauch Halli Goolsby Micah Rabe Jordan Schoen Mass Events Leah Abel, DCE, Director Rev. Derek Broten, Director Andy Pederson, Writer Brian Amey, DCE, Manager Nikki Boyd, DCE, Manager Rev. Nathan Erb, Manager Megan Miessler, DCE, Manager Korey Wysocki, DCE, Manager Kevin Busch, DCE Intern Rev. Scott Coerber Olivia Jablinski, DCE Rehema Kavugha Megan Obermueller Christopher Roth Ben Skelton Dan Stec Anna VanVleet

Littleton, CO Stillwater, MN Berkeley, IL Wichita, KS Owasso, OK West Hempstead, NY Orlando, FL Rockford, IL Sioux Falls, SD Fort Collins, CO Murphy, TX Seward, NE Aurora, CO Saint Paul, MN Winter Park, FL Williamsburg, VA Minneapolis, MN

Mass Event Drama David Knoell, Director Chicago, IL Pete Bartels Mount Juliet, TN Rick Smith Chicago, IL Decapolis Theater Ministry, Concordia University Chicago Mass Event Emcees Rev. Jeffrey Meinz Rev. Matthew Popovits Abigail Tesfaye

Colorado Springs, CO Rego Park, NY Austin, TX

Mass Event House Band Adam Countryman, Manager

San Antonio, TX

Worship Rev. Matthew Clark, Director Rev. Ron Roma, Director Allen Loesel, Manager Laura Freiburg Pamela Loesel Rev. Stephan Roma Dr. Richard Fischer, Symphony Dr. Kurt von Kampen, Choir Diane Wardenburg, Dance

Saint Louis, MO Saint Louis, MO Saint Charles, MO Dallas, TX Saint Charles, MO Santa Clara, CA River Forest, IL Seward, NE Brookfield, CT

Evaluation Ryan Curnutt Scott Kostencki Gene Weeke, Consultant

Florissant, MO St. Louis, MO Fenton, MO

International Churches Nikki Becker, Manager Joe Stock

Arnold, MO Saint Louis, MO

Local Relationships Coordinator Kathy Wendling New Orleans, LA Media Team Sherrah Behrens, Social Media Team Matthew Bergholt, Social Media Team Sabrina Boehlke, Video Team Seth Boggs, Graphic Design Manager Matthew Boness, Photography Team Dcs. Kim Bueltmann, Assistant Jose Diaz, Video Team Zachary Doll, Video Team Jennifer Eickman, Social Media Team Aaron Engelman, Video Team Emilie Finke, Social Media Team Andrew Guenther, Video Team Nathan Harrmann, Photography Manager Seth Hinz, Social Media Manager Rev. Bill Johnson, Social Media Team Justin Juntilla, Video Team Vanessa Lane, Social Media Team Matthew Lavere, Photography Team Eva Lube, Graphic Design Team Andrew Metcalf, Web/App Manager Emmi Moll, Graphic Design Team Sherri Littlefield, Photography Team Micah Rabe, Video Manager Paul Rabe, Video Team Lindsay Rohde, Social Media Team James Saleska, Video Team Rev. Norm Schaeffer, Video Team Jonathan Sosa, Video Team Josh Wanner, Web Team Meredith Whitefield, Social Media Team

Kyle, TX Arnold,MO Random Lake, WI Seward, NE Columbia, MO Mequon, WI Las Vegas, NV Kirkwood, MO Wichita, KS Manhattan, KS Knoxville, TN Grandville, MI Benton Harbor, MI Ypsilanti, MI Fort Wayne, IN Las Vegas, NV Seattle, WA Royal Oak, MI Seward, NE Lincoln, NE Seward, NE Brooklyn, NY Brookfield, WI Milwaukee, WI Freeland, MI Frankenmuth, MI Lincoln, NE San Antonio, TX Springfield, MO Houston, TX

Safety and Information Technology Sandy Wendelin, DCE, Director Lakewood, CO Crisis Intervention Terry Baughman, Manager Lake Orion, MI Lori Gamble, Manager Spirit Lake, IA Rev. Tom Acton Roscoe, IL Rev. Robert Armao Indianapolis, IN Rev. David Gaddini McHenry, IL Ingrid Johnson Long Beach, CA Christie Kieschnick New Orleans, LA Lisa Lessing Fort Wayne, IN Rev. David Simonson Spirit Lake, IA Lori Snyder Saint Charles, MO Kathy Waser Saint Louis, MO Event Base Corby Dickerson, Manager Lolo, MT Shannon Dickerson, Manager Lolo, MT Kristin Tharp Alexandria, LA Aaron Borchelt Fenton, MO David Cheatham Bartlett, IL Rev. James Daub Havelock, NC Sarah Glover Aurora, CO Hardware/Computer Ryan Hartje, Manager Mission, KS Bruce Gamble Spirit Lake, IA Jon Mierow Burnsville, MN Brian Ritz Grand Rapids, MI Rev. Tim Wendelin Lakewood, CO Safety Thaddues Schmidt, Manager Cottage Grove, MN

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Belleville, IL Belleville, IL Saint Paul, MN Woodbury, MN Saint Louis, MO

Servant Events Mitzi Loughmiller, Director Sally Henry Adelle Bergman Ryan Dauss Joseph Marroccoli, Jr. Joseph Taylor

New Orleans, LA Lacey, WA New Orleans, LA New Orleans, LA New Orleans, LA New Orleans, LA

Shuttling Dan Cross, Manager Dean Luker, Manager Don Herweck Kevin Herweck Robert Kienitz

Saint Louis, MO Saint Louis, MO Saint Louis, MO Saint Louis, MO Belleville, IL

Special Guests Jill Hasstedt Sherrill Smith

Belleville, IL Belleville, IL

Special Needs Rev. Bill Wrede, Manager Austin Wellhousen

Saint Louis, MO Saint Louis, MO

Youth Booth Julianna Shults, DCE, LCMS Youth Ministry, Manager Katy Bass Kerrville, TX Jessica Bordeleau Kirkwood, MO Chelsea Doering Austin, TX Rev. Steven Hokana Saint Louis, MO Kevin Mennel Saint Louis, MO Abigail Miller Saint Louis, MO Matthew Miller Saint Louis, MO Rev. Marcus Zill Albuquerque, NM Betty Williams Minneapolis, MN Dolores Karan Minneapolis, MN LCMS Servant Event Committee Rev. Barry Akers Shelly Carlson Linda Gage Leah Sallach Joe Palinkas Randy Ronning

Kokomo, IN Forest Lake, MN Silver Creek, NY Arcadia, NY Painesville, OH Richmond, VA

Lutheran Youth Fellowship Executive Board Adam Dougherty Olympia, WA Katie Krause Pensacola, FL Connor Lukas Port Huron, MI Matthew Rhodes Brookings, SD Madeline Upchurch Wake Forest, NC Lutheran Youth Fellowship Executive Board Elect Justin Beemer Fenton, MI Rachel Moeller Carlsbad, CA Kyra Lecakes Niskayuna, NY Dane Wolfgram Bismarck, ND Connor Works Topeka, KS Sponsors Special thanks to the following organizations for their contributions as sponsors of the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering: Bethesda Lutheran Communities Experiential Learning Center Concordia Publishing House (CPH) Gathering Devotions Concordia University Chicago Gathering Participant T-Shirt Concordia University Irvine Young Adult Volunteer Shirts Concordia University Nebraska Gathering Backpack Concordia University Saint Paul/Concordia University Texas Mass Event Warm-up Concordia University Wisconsin/Concordia University Ann Arbor

Gathering Stages, Memory Book, Volunteer Reception

LeadaChild (CCCS) Experiential Learning Center Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) Gathering App and Convention Center WiFi Lutheran Federal Credit Union Servant Event Water Bottle Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS) 5K Run/Walk Lutheran International Schools in Asia Young Adult Volunteer Meal Support Lutheran World Relief International Participant Scholarship National Lutheran Outdoor Ministry Association Adult Retreat Areas Thrivent Volunteer (CLB/YAV) Lunch and On-Site Servant Event Other Partners Concordia Publishing House, Saint Louis, MO Bruce Kintz, President and CEO Susan Turner, Assistant to the President Jonathan Schultz, Vice President Loren Pawlitz, Executive Director of Marketing and Ecommerce Elizabeth Pittman, Manager, Public Relations Mark Sengele, Editor of Youth Materials Pam Miller, Account Service Representative Jim Strange, Senior Buyer Anne Nienhaus New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau Stephen Perry, President and CEO MaryBeth Guarisco Lyn Hallaron Tara Letort Erica Taylor NOLA Tree Project and HandsOn New Orleans Christopher Cameron, HandsOn New Orleans Connie Uddo, NOLA Tree Project Robin Young, NOLA Tree Project

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New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Mae Hill, Senior National Sales Manager Cassie Jones, Event Coordinator Centerplate, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Jillian Benoit, Assistant Director of Catering Alamo Services (Gathering Security) John Boyd, President and CEO

New Orleans, LA

Inclusive Management Services, Inc. Michael Hahn, Account Representative

Keller, TX Orlando, FL

Royal Productions Randy Gervais, President Ricky Fitzgerald

New Orleans, LA

Mercedes - Benz Superdome New Orleans, LA Jennifer Cooke, Director of Sales and Marketing William Dede, Event Coordinator Centerplate, Mercedes - Benz Superdome Justin Roux, Director of Catering and Suites AFX David Spear, CEO

Mandeville, LA

Rhino Staging Ray Cullen, Operations Manager

Gonzales, LA

Special Event Services Jim Brammer, President

Winston-Salem, NC

Allied PRA (Shuttling) Jeff Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara, President Sarah Howard

New Orleans, LA

acknowledgments

Michael Seibel, Manager Fred Hasstedt Nathaniel Phillips Christopher Radecki Charlie Rodriguez

acknowledgments

BEARCOM (Wireless Communication) Eric Stephens, Regional Director Brad Crise

Garland, TX

EventBase (Gathering App) Jenna Watson-Brawn Michael Lyseng

Vancouver, BC

HelmsBriscoe (Hotel Support) Roger Helms, President Rick Greene Tim Wilson

Phoenix, AZ Carefree, AZ Phoenix, AZ

ISS 24/7 (HelpLine Software) Scott Meyers, VP Sales

Coral Springs, FL

Lutheran Trust Christy Kessler

St. Louis, MO

Multimedia Duplication Gerry Rasch

Earth City, MO

Miles Potter (Registration Database)

Bellingham, WA

Showtime! Rental (Computer/Tech) Pamela Berrigan

New Orleans, LA

Sinistra Studio (Communion Ware) Kate Tonguis, Artist

New Orleans, LA

Music Rights Agencies American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) Church Copyright License, Inc. (CCLI) Special Thanks and Acknowledgements With gratitude to God for the prayers, help and support from the volunteers representing the congregations of the Southern District.

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The Gathering acknowledges with thanks to Gathering hotels a $4.00 per room night rebate which will be used to help defray the cost of rental of Gathering facilities and transportation.

The Gathering gratefully acknowledges a generous gift from HelmsBriscoe, Phoenix, AZ for the support of the Gathering registration office.

We give thanks to God for the generosity of Concordia Lutheran Ministries (CLM) and their generous grant which helped support our servant event efforts in the city of New Orleans.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword â&#x20AC;&#x153;NYGâ&#x20AC;?

Adult Leader Guide Table of Contents 112 115 116 119 120 121 124 143

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leader guide table of contents

General Information Transportation Health, Safety & Security Emergency Medical Response Non-Emergency Medical Needs Community Group Information Adult Leader Interest Centers Worship Service

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General Event Information

Adult Leaders should read this entire section.

Still have a question? Ask a Community Life Builder (CLB), call the 24-hour Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or send a text message to 69050 with the keyword NYG, e.g., “NYG What time do the doors open at the Superdome?”

Adult Leader Orientation: CC 208-210 and 211-213 Friday, July 15 | 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 16 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

After registering on-site, send an adult from your group to an Adult Leader Orientation session. These sessions are quick, informational, and very helpful for setting your group up for an enjoyable and connected Gathering experience. Jump in one of these 30 minute sessions that start every 15 minutes.

Communion Ware Communion ware for the Wednesday’s Worship Service was commissioned and created by New Orleans’ artisan, Kate Tonguis. These sets may be reserved in the Gathering Store located in the CC Hall C on a first available basis for a cost of $150 including packaging and shipping costs. All sets will be shipped.

Donation Drop-Off Bring donation items to the convention center during registration and place them in the marked containers in the Main Entrance Lobby by the Info Booth and the on-site registration area. Once the Experiential Learning Center is open (starting Sunday), please bring them to Hall B of the convention center (See “Christmas in July” location on floor map, page 62–63). Please DO NOT bring donated items to the Superdome. For a list of items to donate (canned food, etc.), please see the Gathering website.

Remember to buy local in New Orleans!

Evaluation We want your feedback! The evaluation process for the LCMS Youth Gathering is very important to the future planning of the event. A number of changes and improvements to the Gathering schedule and program have come directly from feedback from Gathering participants.

From evaluating speakers to hotels, LCMS Youth Ministry wants your feedback as to how best the Gathering can serve your congregational youth ministry. Both youth and adults will be asked for their feedback via the Gathering App (speaker and general Gathering evaluation). Consult the Gathering App (News and Updates) for information where participants can obtain a paper copy of the general evaluation. Also, look for Young Adult Volunteers who will be asking specific questions about parts of the Gathering program experience.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Food Options New Orleans offers many great food options walkable from hotels in the downtown area. Many Gathering hotels offer special menus for Gathering participants. Concession stand areas are available at the convention center.

Refer to the convention center map on page 60 for concession stand locations. Light concessions are available at the Superdome during Mass Event warm-up (Saturday-Tuesday). (Food concessions will be available Saturday night at Champions Square prior to the Opening Mass Event.)

Don’t overlook visiting a local grocery or convenience store to stock up on food and water. For specific restaurant locations and information, visit the NOLA tab on the Gathering website or consult hotel information services.

A New Orleans hospitality booth is also located in the main lobby of the convention center. If your group chooses to eat at a restaurant, consider making reservations in advance.

Gathering Office: CC 205 Open 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 14 – Wednesday, July 20.

Adult Leaders with registration issues (damaged wristband, etc.) can visit the office after registration closes on Sunday. The Gathering Office is not designated as an Info Booth. For program-related questions, please visit any of the designated Info Booths located in the convention center.

HelpLine: 504-670-4400 The HelpLine is available 24 hours a day from noon on July 14 until noon on July 21. The HelpLine provides immediate information about events, program times, or other needs participants may have at the Gathering.

For program information, please first consider consulting the Gathering App. Or send a text message to 69050 with the keyword NYG, e.g., “NYG What time do the doors open at the Superdome?”

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Convention Center Main Entrance Lobby, near the registration area Hall D as you enter, see map on page 60.

Hall F Lobby Superdome Inside the Gate C entrance by Section 114 Inside the Gate A entrance by Section 156 On the Floor at Gate A North (The left center entrance as you face the main stage)

general information

Info Booths Community Life Builders staff Info Booths and are ready to answer questions about program, schedules, and lost and found items. Info Booths can be found at the convention center and Superdome.

general information

LCEF Exchange: CC Main Entrance Lobby If you need cash while in New Orleans, visit the LCEF Exchange, a free service, to redeem traveler’s checks and withdraw funds from your LCEF account.

Hours of Operation: Saturday, July 16 Sunday, July 17 Monday, July 18 Tuesday, July 19

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Computer/Internet Access/Charging Stations Sometimes personal technology doesn’t work as intended. Adults can access the internet via tablets or computers in the Adult Retreat CC 223.

Lost and Found All lost and found items will be gathered and secured in CC Office A1 01 located off Great Hall Pre-Function space (location of on-site registration).

Lost and Found hours are Sunday-Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Check also at the Info Booth on the floor of the Superdome at Gate A North at Wednesday’s Worship Service.

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Items may be turned into ANY Info Booth or the Lost and Found room.

To report a lost item, participants can call the HelpLine or stop by any Info Booth. Lost items (Saturday – Monday) at the Superdome will be taken to the Lost and Found room at the convention center. All youth coming to Lost and Found must be accompanied by an adult.

Lost Cell Phones Encourage youth and adults to change the background or text on their lock screen to read, "If found, please contact xxx-xxx-xxxx." If you lost a device, please contact Lost and Found as soon as possible to report it missing. The more information you can provide, the better.

Wristband Replacement All participants will receive a Gathering wristband. The wristband is the participant’s ticket into all Gathering activities and events. Participants must wear their wristband at all times.

If a wristband is damaged, Primary Adult Leaders can exchange it for a new wristband at the Gathering Office (CC 205). Both the participant and the Primary Adult Leader must visit the Gathering Office. The damaged wristband will be collected and a new wristband will be given to the participant. Additional wristbands will not be provided without exchanging your damaged wristband.

Offering As part of Wednesday’s Worship Service, participants will have the opportunity to present their monetary gifts to the glory of God. Gathering offerings will be used in service to ministry across The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod and throughout the world. A portion of the offering will support Gathering Grants for Youth Outreach and other Youth Ministry endeavors. Stop by the Youth Booth (CC Hall B) to learn more about these grants.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Program Options Check-in/Registration Primary Adult Leaders were emailed confirmation of their group’s (or individual participant’s) assignment to these program options: Offsite Servant Events, Bible Study Academy, On-site Servant Events, and Off-site Interest Centers. 5K Run/Walk participants were emailed their confirmation directly. Participants for these program options must check-in on-site. Booth staff will also be able to give you information about available spots for each program option.

Booths are located in Main Entrance Lobby, near registration Friday, July 15 | 1:00 p.m – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 16 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Special Needs Participants needing to rent a wheelchair, crutches or other healthcare aid are encouraged to contact Mr. Wheelchair http://mrwheelchair.com/ rentals/; 504-834-2810. Deliveries are made to your hotel. A limited number of scooters can be rented from The UPS Store at the convention center 504-670-8941. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Special Needs Advisor through any Gathering Info Booth or calling the Gathering HelpLine.

Transportation

Parking If necessary, parking lots are available at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for a fee. The City of New Orleans also provides parking on many of its streets; be prepared to pay at parking meters. Information on parking can be found online at http://www.neworleansonline.com/tools/ transportation/gettingaround/parking.html.

Wednesday Morning To expedite your departure from the Gathering on Wednesday, it is suggested that groups return to and depart from their assigned hotels following the conclusion of the Dome Event. Groups are NOT allowed to bring luggage into the Superdome at any time. Confirm your hotel’s checkout time and policy. Hotels with an earlier check-out time may provide a luggage holding room for your convenience. If you have questions, contact your Community Life Builder.

Groups who are leaving directly from the Superdome on a private motor coach may plan pick-ups from Superdome Parking Lot #4 (southwest side of the Superdome). Please consider having the bus arrive after 10:00 a.m. after rush hour has decreased. In case of extraordinary circumstances, a

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general information

Private Transportation: Motor Coach/Automobile Once downtown, all facilities and hotels are considered within walking distance. It is highly recommended to not use private transportation such as motor coaches or automobiles during the days of the Gathering while downtown. Private vehicles (motor coaches, automobiles, etc.) will not receive access to vehicle drop-off points at the convention center or Superdome. This is for the safety of pedestrian traffic.

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bag check will be provided at the Coors Light Cold Zone, next to Gate H Plaza.

Participants MAY NOT take luggage with them into the seating area of the Superdome!

Health, Safety and Security Curfew The City of New Orleans has a curfew for minors. It is very important our young people understand the need to stay with an Adult Leader late in the evening. The curfew is for all people under 17 years of age. The hours for curfew are as follows: Sunday - Thursday 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Friday/ Saturday 11 p.m. to 6 a. m. In the French Quarter, it is 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., seven days a week. During the later hours, minors must be with a parent/ guardian or under the watch of an Adult Leader. If out in the city late in the evening, we recommend no more than ten youth be chaperoned per Adult Leader.

City Sense Please maintain groups of at least three or four, with an Adult Leader, for safety reasons. Never travel alone!

Follow suggested walking routes and know where you are headed before you leave. Refer to your hotel CLB for routes. Do not wander into areas that are dark or void of people.

Proper footwear should be worn by all participants. Flip flops or other open-toed footwear is not recommended for the service experiences, walking around the city or inside the Superdome.

The suggested walking route between the convention center and the Superdome is Poydras or Girod Street.

Walk confidently; be courteous and respectful to people you meet on the street.

Unfolding a map or consulting a map app in public can be an invitation for help—wanted or unwanted.

If you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and move to a safer area.

Carry your purse close to your body and your wallet in your front pocket.

Make sure pockets on backpacks are closed or zipped.

Do not display or count large amounts of cash in public places. Be cautious when using an outdoor ATM. Always let Adult Leaders know where you are going. Designate a prearranged meeting spot for your group in the event that someone becomes separated.

Hydration (drinking water), light-colored clothing, a balanced diet, and sleep are the best prevention for heat exhaustion and dehydration while in New Orleans.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Watch out for each other, care for each other, and have the servant heart and mind of Jesus when it comes to how you treat all people.

Safety Tips Each Gathering participant should bring photo identification and a completed Gathering Medical Release and Liability Waiver. Each participant should carry a photo ID and a copy of these forms at all times. A designated Adult Leader should also carry a copy of each group memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forms.

The backpack provided by the Gathering is the primary bag participants should use for transporting personal items into the convention center and Superdome. Only Gathering backpacks will be allowed into the Superdome. All backpacks will be searched upon entry to the Superdome.

(Exceptions to the bag policy will be made at the Special Needs entrance.)

Each participant should place his/her name on the inside of the backpack.

DO NOT put personal information on the outside.

Random searches of all backpacks, bags, containers, purses, etc., may take place at entry areas and other designated areas in the convention center and Superdome. Security personnel reserve the right to question and search participants and their personal effects when suspicious activity is observed.

Refrain from bringing valuables to any Gathering activity. Remember to check the Gathering Lost and Found office in CC A101 outside of Great Hall, for items that may have been misplaced during the Gathering.

Before entering any Gathering event, have a realistic plan of where your group might sit. Designate a pre-arranged meeting spot for members in case someone becomes separated from your group. To avoid injuries, refrain from running when the doors open for any Gathering event.

If you are participating in an off-site interest center or servant event, board buses as a group to avoid losing people.

Maintain a list of cell phone numbers for the members of the group.

Program an Adult Leaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cell phone number and the Gathering HelpLine number (504-670-4400) on all cell phones. Remind participants to be courteous of others when using cell phones. Please silence cell phones during Dome Events, Bible studies, Worship, concerts, and presentations.

Designate one Adult Leader who will carry a basic first aid kit.

Lasers, fireworks, and weapons of any type are not permitted at Gathering activities and will be confiscated. Do not joke about weapons, violent acts, or terrorism.

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Any items left unattended in the convention center and Superdome will be confiscated for participant safety.

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Separated Persons To prevent being separated from your group, PLAN AHEAD! Establish a meeting place to reconnect in both the convention center and the Superdome. In an emergency, call the Gathering HelpLine (504-6704400). At the convention center, the Information booth located in the Main Entrance Lobby is a designated “Holding Area” for separated persons.

Staying Safe in the Summer Sun Extreme heat can cause many health issues, even death. Below are safety tips that will help you stay safe during your time in the hot, humid, summer climate of New Orleans.

Drink plenty of water. Your body needs water to keep cool. You should drink at least eight, eight ounce glasses of water (64 oz.) each day to avoid dehydration. More may be necessary depending upon whether you are used to the heat, are sick, or have special medical conditions. Sports drinks (such as Gatorade) are okay in moderation in addition to your daily water intake.

Dress for summer. Light-weight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body remain cool.

Slow down/spend as much time as possible in air conditioning. Plan ahead to allow yourself plenty of time for each day’s activities. If you are feeling the effects of the heat, seek the coolest locations possible (this may not necessarily be indoors) and rest.

Don’t get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation more difficult for your body. Wear sun screen (reapplying frequently and liberally), hats, and other coverings during the day.

Don’t over-eat. The more food (protein) you place in your body, the more heat energy the human body will create during the digestive process.

Heat Illness Symptoms SUNBURN: Redness and pain. In severe cases swelling of skin, blisters, fever, headaches. First Aid: Ointments for mild cases if blisters appear and do not break. If breaking occurs, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive cases should be seen by a physician.

HEAT CRAMPS: Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating. First Aid: Firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use.

HEAT EXHAUSTION: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale, and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting. First Aid: Get victim out of sun. Lay down and loosen clothing.

Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

HEAT STROKE (or sunstroke): High body temperature (106° F or higher).

Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. First Aid: HEAT STROKE IS A SEVERE MEDICAL EMERGENCY. SUMMON EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE OR GET THE VICTIM TO A HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY. DELAY CAN BE FATAL. Move the victim to a cooler environment. Reduce body temperature with cold water or sponging. Use extreme caution. Use fans and air conditioners.

If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.

Emergency Medical Response Convention Center If inside or immediately outside the convention center either, 1) call convention center dispatch at 504-582-3040 or pick up the red emergency telephone; 2) Dial 3040 from any convention center installed phone; 3) Use the telephone in the green box outside the medical rooms in Lobby B, Lobby E, or Lobby H. In an emergency situation be prepared to provide: 1. Your Name 2. Your Location 3. Your contact information (if cell phone is available) 4. A description of the situation: Is the person breathing? Is the person responsive? How did the injury occur (if known)? What is the person’s complaint?

Superdome In case of an emergency, contact a Gathering staff member (CLB or usher) or Superdome staff member. Superdome Security Control can be reached at (504) 587-3900.

Hotels Your Community Life Builder (CLB) and hotel staff are key resources in case of emergency. When you check into your hotel, familiarize yourself with your hotel’s phone system for emergency response. Again, please call the Gathering HelpLine (504-670-4400) as quickly as the situation allows.

emergency medical needs

Notify a Gathering staff member by calling the HelpLine (504-670-4400) as quickly as the situation allows. Provide information on the location of the incident, nature of injuries, the extent of any damage, and the age(s) of those involved.

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Non-Emergency Medical Needs First Aid CC Medical Services I - Located in Hall B Lobby near Hall B external entrances (on opposite side of the Hall B Entrance) CC Medical Services II - Located in Hall E Lobby near Hall E external entrances CC Medical Services Satellite Location – Located in back of Hall E in Recreation Area near the check-in location Superdome - Loge/Club Level at section 277, Plaza Level at section 133, and Floor Level at Gate A North If you have a medical problem at the Dome, contact a Dome usher stationed at each aisle entrance, or a Mass Event volunteer usher. They will call medical assistance or direct you to the nearest first aid station.

Before the doors open there will be a First aid station outside the dome on the plaza north east corner near Gate B. You can ask CLB (yellow shirts) for directions to this location. In a serious emergency dial 911 and use the gates as location identification.

Participants in need of medical treatment for injury or illness while at a hotel should contact their Adult Leader, hotel Community Life Builder (CLB), or hotel staff to determine the location of the nearest medical facility. Participants are reminded to carry a copy of their medical release form at all times.

At the convention center, go to a first aid station or contact a CLB or YAV and they will call medical assistance or direct you to a medical station.

Crisis Intervention The Crisis Intervention Team is on-site throughout the Gathering and available to help individuals and groups experiencing severe crisis situations such as notification of death in the family, legal issues, substance abuse, depression or suicidal feelings, or issues of violence or abuse.

The Crisis Intervention Team consoles and counsels as needed and provides referrals as appropriate while maintaining confidentiality.

Crisis Intervention Team members are obligated to report incidents in accordance with mandatory reporting laws. The Crisis Intervention Teams can be contacted through the Gathering HelpLine (504-670-4400).

Secondary Insurance Information Registrants are covered by a very limited accident and medical insurance policy that provides reimbursement up to a minimal dollar amount for emergency medical expenses incurred as a result of purely accidental injuries sustained while at the Gathering. This coverage is secondary to all other personal insurance coverage available to the participant and will make payment only if such other insurance is not adequate to cover the medical expenses resulting from an accidental injury sustained while at the Gathering.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Community Life Information CLB Morning Meeting Starting Sunday, your hotel will have a Community Life Builder (CLB) available from 8:00-8:30 a.m. Please check the confirmation board in your hotel lobby for location. The CLB is there to connect with Adult Leaders and provide a time of devotion and prayer. Gathering updates will also be available as needed. The CLB will do their best to answer questions you may have. Please note, all important updates will be pushed through the Gathering App. If you miss the morning meeting, please find the “News and Updates” portion of the App. We hope you take the opportunity to connect with your hotel CLB and the other Adult Leaders in your hotel each morning!

Adult Leader Retreat: CC 214, 223 and 242

Open when the convention center is open, for Adult Leaders only There is never a dull moment at the Gathering, but there is a place for Adult Leaders to withdraw from the fray, be rejuvenated and encouraged, and take some deep breaths. In the three strategically located Adult Retreat areas you might take a nap, chat with other leaders or well-trained CLBs, and relax with an adult coloring book. Adult Leader Retreat is sponsored

by NLOMA.

Their yellow shirts, yellow backpacks, and general yellow appearance make CLBs easy to identify. Please do not hesitate to ask questions to any CLB you encounter.

CLBs have resources for emergency and crisis procedures. While they are unable to serve as emergency personnel, they are trained to contact the needed help and are able to walk alongside leaders in uncertain situations.

There are some important things CLBs cannot do for Gathering Adult Leaders.

•

CLBs are not behavior monitors, but are available to help you as you work with your youth.

•

CLBs are not empowered to serve as a liaison between hotel management and Gathering groups unless an arbitrator is required. They are unable to assist with room assignments, billing, room, or hotel damages.

• CLBs have no authority to commit The LCMS in issues that

demand the expenditure of money to hotels or to Gathering participants.

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Community Life Builders Community Life Builders (CLBs) serve Gathering participants. They are Gathering volunteers, aged 25 and older. CLBs are carefully selected and trained prior to the Gathering and serve in key roles throughout the convention center, Superdome and participant hotels. They aim to answer questions, ensure safety and assist with traffic flow. Each morning at your hotel, a CLB is available to pray with Adult Leaders at and provide information or event updates as needed.

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Young Adult Volunteers : Orange Nation Young Adult Volunteers (YAVs) can be identified by their orange shirts and extreme enthusiasm. YAVs play a huge role in making the Gathering a successful and memorable experience. They serve as role models while working in specific areas of the Gathering in the convention center, Superdome, Gathering hotels, and Off-Site Servant Events.

Not only is the Gathering the largest gathering of LCMS high school youth, it is also the largest gathering of young adults between the ages of 18-25.

Are you a young adult attending the Gathering with your congregational group? We would love for you to join our young adult community during the evening Night Life. Join us at the Springhill Suites located at 301 St. Joseph Street every night after the Mass Event.

Think you have what it takes? If you’ll be 19-25 in 2019, we would love to have you serve at the 2019 Gathering!

The Gathering App Download the official app of the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering. Bookmark your favorite speakers, play the Gathering Game and stay connected with the happenings at #NYG2016. The Gathering app is available for download in your iTunes or Google Play store under “LCMS Youth Gathering”.

Play the Gathering Game through the App Engage in friendly competition, collect points, earn badges and gain the chance to sit in the front row at in the dome on Wednesday morning. All this by just participating in various activities throughout the Gathering and recording your points in the app. To play, download the Gathering app found in your iTunes or Google Play store under “LCMS Youth Gathering”. Once inside the app, click on “Gathering Game”, log-in with Facebook and start earning points. On Tuesday at noon, three winners will be drawn from the top ten participants with the most points. All three winners and their congregational group will receive seating in the front rows at Wednesday’s Worship Service and Closing Event.

Facebook LIVE with Rev. Matt Popovits Have questions come up in your group that you just don’t know how to answer? Did you hear something you’d like further explained? The Rev. Matt Popovits will be LIVE in the Adult Leader Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/NYGadultleaders/) every night of the Gathering at 11 p.m. Matt will be available to answer questions and provide a recap of the day’s themes. If it works in your group’s schedule, consider watching Matt together. He will be on for 10-15 minutes (11:00 – 11:15 p.m.). Unable to watch LIVE? Go to the Adult Leader Facebook Group to watch any time on-demand.

Post-Gathering Bible Study After the Gathering, you can download a Post-Gathering Bible study from the Gathering website and view through the Gathering app. Both the leader and participant versions will be found at www.lcmsgathering.com/ biblestudy.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Guide for Effective Community Group Time

The Gathering is only a catalyst for ongoing growth in the Christian faith for young people and adults. Community Groups provide the intimate setting necessary for the Gathering to have a lasting impact in the lives of participants. Seeing thousands of people together is exciting and perhaps even inspirational, but Community Group time provides youth the opportunity to talk things through and make new discoveries about life in Christ and life in the Church.

In addition to other benefits, Community Groups at the Gathering help participants: • Grow closer in relationships with one another • Review, debrief, and talk about experiences of the day • Reflect on spiritual topics and daily Gathering themes • Plan and organize each day Community Group time will happen at different times throughout the day, morning to night. Specifically, Gathering planners suggest you find time to recap each day. Bible studies and devotions have been provided to guide your study and discussion throughout the day. Community Group resources, including daily reflection questions and orders of prayer are found in your Gathering Guidebook, starting at page 16. Additional information on the following pages provides good starting points and encourages continued growth in your Community Groups: How Engaging with a group naturally is not as intimidating as it might seem.

Here are some key things to remember as you nurture your students in a small group: Respect for yourself and others; no put downs.

Listening; each person has value and should be heard.

Honesty, trust, and love; God tells us to “speak the truth in love.”

When Community Group time may need to be adapted to meet the needs of your group. Discussing a few items thoroughly and providing a safe place to talk honestly about faith is better than rushing through all the material.

Where Adult Leaders are encouraged to think through locations for Community Group time. Be courteous to other Gathering groups, guests of the hotel, and citizens of New Orleans. These times might happen in a huge ballroom, at a district event, in a restaurant, in a convention center lobby, or a hotel room—anywhere!

Morning and Evening Discussion Time We strongly encourage Community Groups to begin and end their day in prayer and discussion together. While you can use these questions anytime during the day, you are encouraged to end each day with a Community Group connection time. Some hotels will have a Community Life Builder available to help facilitate this time. Consider using the Morning and Evening Prayer found on pages 17–18.

community life information

• • •

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Tricia Hamilton

Will They Be Ready or Not?

12:00 PM

Bob Fossum Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger Audrey DuensingWerner

Room Monday 235-236

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Landon Becker

Brandon Heath

Rev. Leon Jameson Abigail Miller Andy Stumpf

237

238

239 240 241

Rebuilding or Restoring a Dissolving Ministry

Crowdfunding 101: Why the Hype and How To Do It

More than Pizza and Doritos

YAV panel: From the Mouths of Millennials

Dave Fiedler Rev. Todd Kollbaum

Rev. Marcus Zill Audrey DuensingWerner Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger

Tricia Hamilton

Will They Be Ready or Not?

Bob Fossum

Tough Talks

2:00 PM

Topic

12:00 PM

Landon Becker Scott Barefoot Scott Rauch

Room Tuesday 235-236

More than Pizza and Doritos Beyond the Gathering YAV Panel: From the Mouths of Millennials

Rev. Jacob Allstaedt

Rev. Marcus Zill

Tricia Hamilton Scott Rauch

Rev. Leon Jameson Tricia Hamilton Brandon Heath

Relational Youth Ministry: What does that look like?

Want a Chocolate?

Don't Survive - THRIVE! Risk Management: Is There a Form for That?

Marginalized by Disabilities

239 240 241

238

237

2:00 PM

Topic

Rev. Leon Jameson Bob Baker Mona Fuerstenau

Laura Kuegele Rev. Jacob Allstaedt Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger

Scott Barefoot

239 240 241

Now What? Navigating the Gathering Where Two or Three are Gathered

Topic

Where Two or Three are Gathered

6 Reasons Why You Still Need a Will/Estate Plan

Want a Chocolate?

Relational Youth Ministry: What does that look like?

Preparing Youth to Survive the Academic Apocalypse

Get Your Group Out of that Rut!

There's More Out There in the DCE/DCS Galaxy Than Youth Ministry

Don't Survive - THRIVE! Where Our Teens May Be Trending

Discipling Youth Who Are "On the Fence" NLOMA Reunion

NLOMA Reunion Rev. Leon Jameson Rev. Terry Dittmer Dcs. Kim Trombley

The Fine Line Between Mentoring and Meddling Sarah Guldalian & Philip Gruenwald

Topic

Risk Management: Is There a Form for That?

Hunger Project: Leading a Food Packing Event Let Me Tell You About the "Plurals"

Tim Eldred

4:00 PM

Bob Baker

Chaperone to Shepherd Topic

Feeding Children Everywhere Rev. Terry Dittmer

Removing the "Fear Factor" in Discussing Homosexuality

Serving Your Church in Christ Alone NLOMA Reunion

NLOMA Reunion

The Fine Line Between Mentoring and Meddling

Topic

Rebuilding or Restoring a Dissolving Ministry Crowdfunding 101: Why the Hype and How To Do It Serving Your Church in Christ Alone

Discipling Youth Who Are "On The Fence" NLOMA Reunion

Don't Survive - THRIVE!

Topic

Rev. Seth Moorman

Tim Eldred

4:00 PM

Rev. Seth Moorman

Andy Stumpf Abigail Miller

NLOMA Reunion

Sarah Guldalian & Philip Gruenwald

Rev. Leon Jameson

4:00 PM

Tough Talks

You Want Me to Lead a Bible Study!?

Preparing Youth to Survive the Academic Apocalypse

Get Your Group Out of that Rut!

Topic

Want a Chocolate?

Beyond the Gathering Chaperone to Shepherd

Navigating the Gathering You Want Me to Lead a Bible Study!?

Removing the "Fear Factor" in Discussing Homosexuality

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Get Your Group Out of that Rut!

Laura Kuegele Rev. Todd Kollbaum

2:00 PM

Tricia Hamilton

Topic

237 238

12:00 PM

Adult Interest Centers

The following Interest Centers were designed with Adult Leaders in mind.

These sessions are for adults only.

Room Sunday 235-236

adult leader interest centers Adult Leader Interest Centers

NLOMA Camp Reunions Sunday-Tuesday 3:15 p.m. in CC 238 There are 28 awesome camps dispersed throughout the country - all a part of the National Lutheran Outdoor Ministry Association! If you’re an Adult Leader who has spent a summer on camp staff or attended as a camper, come reminisce with us. There will be camp goodies and relaxed fellowship around the “campfire.” We welcome you to come share your memories at one or all three of the camp reunions!

Notes:

adult leader interest centers

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Sunday | 12 p.m.

Get Your Group Out of that Rut!

Tricia Hamilton, DCE

CC 235-236

Is your youth group tired of the same three games you always play? Are you stuck in a rut of doing the same thing every time you are together? Do you need some fresh ideas for getting your students to talk and open up? If so, this is the place for you! You will leave this fun, hands-on session with ideas you can start using TODAY.

Now What? How to Navigate the Gathering Laura Kuegele, DCE CC 237

You made it! Whew! So now what? The Gathering has so much to offer your group that there is never enough time to do everything. How can you make the most of what you do here? Navigating the Gathering can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Join Laura in looking at how you can maximize your time at the Gathering and how you can bring it home.

Where Two or Three are Gathered Rev. Todd Kollbaum CC 238

Where two or three are gathered...and that’s all...ever...what do you do? This session is designed to equip you to utilize youth in positions of leadership so the work and weight of the ministry is shared in smaller congregations...and an even greater benefit? Youth buy in!

Join us as we share ideas and strategies to equip and empower our youth to take a more active role in the youth ministry of your congregation.

Don’t Survive THRIVE! Rev. Leon Jameson CC 239

Volunteer youth leaders: thank you for your commitment to live out the Gospel, for sacrificing vacation days to sleep on gym floors and in teen-saturated hotels, for stepping out of your comfort zone and helping students know Christ.

Don’t burn out! Come be refueled with five bite-sized principles to strengthen your work as a volunteer youth leader at the Gathering and beyond.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday | 12 p.m.

Stuff happens. You never know when.

You never know what. You never know who and often never know (or find out) why. But any time you take people (and especially kids) and add programs (and especially active programs), you’re ripe for accidents, incidents, situations, and our old pal from Allstate: Mayhem.

Risk Management is first, preventing problems, a nd second, ha nd li ng incidents that may and will happen anyway, effectively and professionally.

Because ready or not...

LEFT OUT! Marginalized by Disabilities Mona Fuerstenau CC 241

We all know what it feels like to be left out. People with disabilities live with that every day. This session will give you easy tools to be a person and a place that welcomes and includes people of all abilities!

Sunday | 2:00 p.m.

Removing The “Fear Factor” In Discussing Homosexuality Scott Barefoot CC 235-236

Now What? How to Navigate the Gathering Laura Kuegele, DCE CC 237

Talking with teens can sometimes be an uncomfortable experience, even when talking about areas that you have a first-hand experience with from your teen years. Just the thought of a discussion with teens about a subject like homosexuality (that you may tend to avoid like a plague even with other adults), is sometimes enough to send some running for the hills. Come learn some useful approaches for removing the “fear factor” from these important conversations.

See description on page 126.

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Risk Management: When “It” Happens, or...Is There a Form for That?

Bob Baker

CC 240

adult leader interest centers 128

Sunday | 2:00 p.m.

You Want Me to Lead a Bible Study!?

Rev. Jake Allstaedt CC 238

Not everyone who leads a Bible study for youth is a professional church worker.

Volunteers are often called upon to serve in this capacity. Are you a volunteer youth leader? Don’t know where to start when it comes to a Bible study? Are you worried you won’t be able to connect to today’s youth? Do you want to feel more confident teaching God’s Word to them? If so, this session is for you!

Want a Chocolate?

Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger CC 239

Looking at the world of Millennial discipleship can be really frustrating and confusing. So many times disciplers are satisfied with external behavior modification as a sign of faith, but is that really the goal? Can we dare to dream past getting them to attend and behave properly for youth events?

Beyond the Gathering

There are over 1,000 days between now and the next LCMS Youth Gathering.

How will you use the momentum you have created here to help your youth grow in their relationships with God and one another? This session will help you develop a strategic plan to make the most of your time together during the next two summers, so you don’t waste any of the bonds that have grown here in New Orleans!

Tricia Hamilton, DCE

CC 240

Chaperone to Shepherd Scott Rauch, DCE CC 241

The present culture invites people to follow their heart’s desires. But we are called to follow Jesus in who He is and what His heart desires and to do it as the family of God together. Come explore what it looks like to provide shepherding/discipling leadership with youth as we all follow Jesus together.

Sunday | 4:00 p.m.

Don’t Survive - THRIVE! Rev. Leon Jameson CC 235-236

See description on page 126.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Sunday | 4:00 p.m.

Watching youth repeatedly make bad decisions - as teens do! - it’s easy to wonder if your efforts make any difference at all. Well, they DO! The Holy Spirit is at work through you, changing lives - bit by bit, as you continue to love and disciple. Don’t let the enemy deceive you. Hear how these once-straying Lutheran Hour Ministries presenters, became alive as true disciples! The journey’s not easy; but, it’s definitely worth it for eternity!

Rebuilding or Restoring a Dissolving Ministry Andy Stumpf, DCE CC 239

Where did everybody go? Dealing with a declining youth ministry is frustrating and leaves you with a lot of questions. Come discover some ideas you can implement right now. Walk away with strategies for retaining 8th graders, relevant resources for engaging high schoolers, and share ideas and questions you have.

Crowdfunding 101: Why the Hype and How To Do It Abigail Miller CC 240

Wondering what the “crowdfunding” buzz is all about? You’ve heard of Indiegogo, Kickstarter or GoFundMe. In fact, you’ve probably been told to try crowdfunding to raise money for a mission trip or other ministry project.

Join us for a fun workshop where we’ll explain what crowdfunding is, how to build a project, and important tips and strategies. (PLUS, you’ll learn how WeRaise could lead to additional funding for your ministry!)

Serving Your Church In Christ Alone Rev. Seth Moorman CC 241

With so many programs to administrate, curriculum to choose, volunteers to train, activities to plan, and budgets to formulate, how do you keep Christ at the center of all you do? Pastor Seth will help you critically look at your own ministry and give you some practical ways to try and keep it all centered in Christ alone. This session is especially geared for volunteer church workers but will benefit anyone serving in ministry.

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Discipling Youth Who Are “On The Fence” Sarah Guldalian & Philip Gruenwald CC 237

adult leader interest centers 130

Will They Be Ready or Not? Bob Fossum, DCE CC 235-236

Monday | 12:00 p.m.

Want a Chocolate?

Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger CC 237

This workshop will empower you to prepare youth for their transition to college focusing on feedback from current college students’ answers to the questions: 1) What were the events/ experiences from your youth group that best prepared you for your first year at college? 2) What could your youth group have done that would have better prepared you? Participants will be introduced to #gradgoals – an amazing resource developed by director of student ministries, Michael Weniger.

See description on page 128.

Relational Youth Ministry: What Does that Look Like?

Audrey DuensingWerner, DCE CC 238

Youth are no longer interested in things to “go” to; they already have plenty of that in their over-programmed world.

They are, however, looking for authentic relationships. It’s only natural since our God is a relational God, and He created us to not only have an intimate relationship with Him but authentic relationships with other Christians.

It’s time for a transformation...a relational transformation.

More than Pizza and Doritos Rev. Leon Jameson CC 239

Youth ministry is more than entertaining games, memorable trips, and late-night gatherings. Youth ministry is more than Doritos and pizza parties. Come and learn three ways to transform your approach that will help to build a sustainable and vibrant youth ministry.

Come be encouraged and inspired as we challenge the notion that youth ministry is a bunch of splashing in the kiddy pool without wading into the deep end.

Beyond the Gathering Tricia Hamilton, DCE CC 240

See description on page 128.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Monday | 12:00 p.m.

YAV Panel: From the Mouths of Millennials

Brandon Heath, DCE

CC 241

Today’s American young adults are more global, socially conscience and tech savvy than any generation that has come before. And yet a significant amount struggle to find their place in the body of Christ or disengage completely from the Christian faith. In this session, Brandon will lead a panel of young adults to share struggles and joys of being part of this Millennial Generation and how churches can engage young adults.

Monday | 2:00 p.m.

Get Your Group Out of that Rut! See description on page 126.

Tricia Hamilton, DCE CC 235-236 It’s no secret that the transition from high school to college can be a scary one, not only for young people themselves but also for parents, youth workers, pastors, and others. Come and learn the essentials to help your youth make this transition and not only remain in their faith, but grow in it during this pivotal period in their lives.

You Want Me to Lead a Bible Study!? See description on page 128.

Rev. Jake Allstaedt CC 238 Tough Talks

Landon Becker, DCE

CC 239

How can a loving God allow evil?

Is homosexuality really that big of a deal in God’s eyes? If marijuana is legal in some states...why can’t I use it? Today’s youth are asking some tough questions. Come and hear what some of those questions are and receive helpful tips on how to engage students in a learning process of f i nd i ng a nswers together. Adult Leaders, come gain insight and collaborate with those in the room.

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Preparing Youth to Survive the Academic Apocalypse Rev. Marcus Zill CC 237

adult leader interest centers 132

Monday | 2:00 p.m.

Removing The “Fear Factor” See description on page 127.

In Discussing Homosexuality Scott Barefoot CC 240 Chaperone to Shepherd See description on page 128.

Scott Rauch, DCE CC 241

Monday | 4:00 p.m.

The Fine Line Between Mentoring and Meddling Tim Eldred CC 235-236

What’s the real role of a youth worker, pastor, or even parent in the lives of teens? How do we empower young people to own their faith and take responsibility for their lives? In this session, we’ll peel back the unnecessary layers of youth ministry to reveal the core elements of discipleship and spiritual formation. You’ll discover your proper place and practical help, as an advocate of youth in ministry.

Serving Your Church See description on page 129.

In Christ Alone Rev. Seth Moorman CC 237 Hunger Project Feeding Children Everywhere CC 239

Learn how your congregation or community can host its own handpackage event to relieve hunger within your local community and around the world. Hunger Projects are a highenergy, practical and hands-on way for anyone to make a tangible difference in the fight against global hunger. With music booming, lentils flying and a sea of hairnets, our volunteers work together to create a truly dynamic experience and the by-product? Healthy meals packaged for hungry children along the way.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Let Me Tell You About the “Plurals” Rev. Terry Dittmer CC 240

Millennials are old news. A new generation is entering confirmation classes and high schools and youth ministry folks need to get acquainted.

Find out why they’ve been called the “Plurals.” What does their generational profile look like? What do we need to know about them? What could be the best way to minister to and with them?

What we can know about them now will put us on the cutting edge for working with them.

Risk Management: When “It” See description on page 127.

Happens, or...Is There a Form for That?

Bob Baker CC 241

Will They Be Ready or Not? Bob Fossum, DCE CC 235-236

See description on page 130.

Tough Talks Landon Becker, DCE CC 237

See description on page 131.

YAV Panel: From the Mouths of Millennials Brandon Heath, DCE CC 238

See description on page 131.

More than Pizza and Doritos Rev. Leon Jameson CC 239

See description on page 130.

Crowdfunding 101: Why the Hype and How To Do It Abigail Miller CC 240

See description on page 129.

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Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

adult leader interest centers 134

Tuesday | 12:00 p.m.

Rebuilding or Restoring a See description on page 129.

Dissolving Ministry Andy Stumpf, DCE CC 241

Tuesday | 2:00 p.m.

Get Your Group Out of that Rut! Tricia Hamilton, DCE CC 235-236

See description on page 126.

Preparing Youth to Survive the Academic Apocalypse Rev. Marcus Zill CC 237

See description on page 131.

Relational Youth Ministry: What Does that Look Like?

Audrey Duensing-Werner, DCE CC 238

See description on page 130.

Want a Chocolate?

Rev. Jonathan Brandenberger CC 239 I’m Young(ish) and Definitely Not Rich. 6 Reasons You Still Need a Will David Fiedler CC 240

Where Two or Three are Gathered Rev. Todd Kollbaum CC 241

See description on page 128.

So you may not be a millionaire. And you’re not 80 years old. In fact, your kids are still at home or just barely out of the nest. Or maybe you don’t have kids at all. It’s still critical that you have a plan in place for what happens if you suddenly get called home. Here are six reasons why.

See description on page 126.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Tuesday | 4:00 p.m.

See description on page 132.

Discipling Youth Who Are “On The Fence” Sarah Guldalian & Philip Gruenwald CC 237

See description on page 129.

Don’t Survive - THRIVE! Rev. Leon Jameson CC 239

See description on page 126.

Where Our Teens May Be Trending Rev. Terry Dittmer CC 240

“Wookie” Ministry – There’s More in the DCE/DCS Galaxy than Youth Ministry Dcs. Kim Trombley CC 241

Since the first Gathering in 1980, Lutheran Youth Fellowship has conducted a poll to measure the issues, concerns and attitudes of youth at the Gathering. Find out what the trends among LCMS youth are over the last 38 years. This is the first time we’ve looked at all the polls side by side. Are our teens bucking societal trends or accommodating them? What do the trends suggest in terms of teaching, programming, training and curriculum?

Come and see how you can serve as a commissioned minister, meeting needs throughout the Galaxy and beyond. Explore ministry with people of all abilities led by commissioned staff of Bethesda Lutheran Communities.

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The Fine Line Between Mentoring and Meddling Tim Eldred CC 235-236

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

As we prepare for Holy Communion...

The Lord’s Supper is celebrated in the confession and glad confidence that, as He promises, Jesus gives us not only bread and wine, but also His true body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins and for the strengthening of our faith. All baptized Christians who trust this promise, repent of their sins, and set aside any refusal to love and forgive others, are invited to the Lord’s Supper.

It is also important to understand two additional things that the Scriptures teach about the Lord’s Supper. First, participation in this meal is a bold confession of what we believe as Lutheran Christians.

The Apostle Paul writes to the church of God in Corinth and to us: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26 ESV).

Second, those who eat and drink the Lord’s body and blood unworthily do so to their great harm. The Apostle continues in his writing, “Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself” (1 Corinthians 11:27-29 ESV).

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We encourage you to find a time to speak with an Adult Leader or pastor after the service so we might be able to commune together with you sometime in the future.

During the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, you may stay in your seat or walk forward with your group. If you choose to come forward, cross your arms over your chest to indicate that you will be receiving a blessing spoken by the pastor.

Note: Gluten-free wafers and non-alcoholic wine will be served at three stations indicated by RED STREAMERS on Communion Banners.

communion statement

For these reasons, if you have not been instructed in the teachings of the Lutheran faith, confessed agreement with the Lutheran faith, or are in doubt about or hold beliefs differing from The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod, we request that you do not receive this Sacrament today.

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In Christ Alone Worship Service PRELUDE “In Christ Alone” Commissioned for the 2016 Gathering by Reber Clark Please stand PROCESSIONAL

“Holy God, We Praise Thy Name”

All: Holy God, we praise Thy name; Lord of all, we bow before Thee.

All on earth Thy scepter claim, All in heav’n above adore Thee.

Infinite Thy vast domain, Everlasting is Thy reign.

Choir: Hark! The glad celestial hymn Angel choirs above are raising; Cherubim and seraphim, In unceasing chorus praising, Fill the heav’ns with sweet accord: Holy, holy, holy Lord!

Women: Lo, the apostles’ holy train Join Thy sacred name to hallow; Prophets swell the glad refrain, And the white-robed martyrs follow, And from morn to set of sun Through the Church the song goes on.

Men: Thou art King of Glory, Christ; Son of God, yet born of Mary.

For us sinners sacrificed, As to death a Tributary, First to break the bars of death, Thou hast opened heav’n to faith.

All: Holy Father, holy Son, Holy Spirit, three we name Thee; Though in essence only one, Undivided God we claim Thee And, adoring, bend the knee While we own the mystery.

Choir: Amen! Amen!

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CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION P: In the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.

C: Amen.

GREETING P: Beloved in the Lord! Let us draw near with a true heart and confess our sins unto God our Father, beseeching Him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to grant us forgiveness.

P: Our help is in the name of the Lord, C: who made heaven and earth.

P: I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord, C: and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.

Silence for reflection on God’s Word and for self-examination.

P: O almighty God, merciful Father, C: I, a poor, miserable sinner, confess unto You all my sins and

iniquities with which I have ever offended You and justly deserved

Your temporal and eternal punishment. But I am heartily sorry for them and sincerely repent of them, and I pray You of Your

boundless mercy and for the sake of the holy, innocent, bitter sufferings and death of Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to be

gracious and merciful to me, a poor, sinful being.

P: Upon this your confession, I, by virtue of my office as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto all of you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the T Son and of the Holy Spirit.

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C: Amen.

Sit

SERVICE OF THE WORD “Kyrie” from African Mass

by Norman Luboff

Kyrie eleison. Christe eleison.

WORDS FROM SAINT PAUL Stand

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Kyrie (Choir)

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Hymn of Praise Brusick

“This Is the Feast of Victory” Arrangement: Adam Countryman/Bill

Refrain: This is the feast of victory for our God. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain, whose blood set us free to be people of God. (Refrain) Power, riches, wisdom, and strength, and honor, blessing, and glory are His. (Refrain) Sing with all the people of God, and join in the hymn of all creation.

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Blessing, honor, glory, and might be to God and the Lamb forever. Amen. (Refrain) For the Lamb who was slain has begun His reign.

Alleluia!

This is the feast of victory for our God. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

SALUTATION AND COLLECT P: The Lord be with you.

C: And also with you.

P: Let us pray. God our Father, Your Son humbled Himself by becoming flesh to live among us and die for us. Grant us joy in our identity as Your people, who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, so that we might rejoice together in Christian community as we receive and share Your love and grace. We pray this in the name of Christ alone, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

All: Amen.

Sit

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Old Testament Reading Psalm 46

Ezekiel 11:17–20

“God Is Our Refuge and Strength”

by K. Lee Scott

Choir: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is moved, And the mountains fall into the sea, though its waters roar and foam, And the mountains shake at its swelling.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, The holy place of the dwellings of the Most High.

God dwells within her and she shall not be moved.

God will help her as morning dawns.

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in all the earth.

The Lord God of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

All: A mighty fortress is our God, a sword and shield victorious; He breaks the cruel oppressor’s rod and wins salvation glorious.

The old satanic foe has sworn to work us woe.

With craft and dreadful might he arms himself to fight.

On earth he has no equal.

No strength of ours can match his might, we would be lost, rejected.

But now a champion comes to fight, whom God Himself elected.

You ask who this may be? The Lord of hosts is He, Christ Jesus, mighty Lord. God’s only Son adored.

He holds the field victorious.

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Choir: The God of Jacob is our refuge, The Lord of hosts is with us!

Epistle Philippians 2:5–11

Hymn of Day

All: In Christ alone my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song; This Cornerstone, this solid Ground, Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.

What heights of love, what depths of peace, When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!

My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand.

“In Christ Alone”

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Stand

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In Christ alone, who took on flesh, Fullness of God in helpless babe.

This gift of love and righteousness, Scorned by the ones he came to save.

Till on that cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied; For every sin on Him was laid; Here in the death of Christ I live.

P: The Gospel according to St. John, the twentieth chapter.

C: Glory to you, O Lord.

Gospel

John 20:19–23, 30–31

P: This is the Gospel of the Lord.

C: Praise to You, O Christ.

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Choir: There in the ground His body lay, Light of the world by darkness slain: Then bursting forth in glorious day, Up from the grave He rose again!

And as He stands in victory, Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me; For I am His and He is mine— Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

All: No guilt in life, no fear in death, This is the power of Christ in me; From life’s first cry to final breath.

Jesus commands my destiny.

No power of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from His hand; Till He returns or calls me home — Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.

Sit Sermon Stand

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison

Hymn

“We Believe”

by Newsboys

In this time of desperation, When all we know is doubt and fear, There is only one foundation.

We believe, we believe.

We believe in God the Father.

We believe in Jesus Christ.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, And He’s given us new life.

We believe in the crucifixion.

We believe that He conquered death.

We believe in the resurrection, And He’s coming back again.

We believe.

So, let our faith be more than anthems, Greater than the songs we sing, And in our weakness and temptations, We believe, we believe.

We believe in God the Father.

We believe in Jesus Christ.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, And He’s given us new life.

We believe in the crucifixion.

We believe that He conquered death.

We believe in the resurrection, And He’s coming back again.

We believe.

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P: We join in the Apostles Creed: C: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.

He descended into hell.

On the third day He rose again from the dead.

He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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Let the lost be found And the dead be raised.

In the here and now, Let love invade.

Let the church live loud, Our God, we’ll say, We believe, we believe.

And the gates of hell Will not prevail.

For the power of God Has torn the veil.

Now we know Your love Will never fail.

We believe, we believe.

We believe in God the Father.

We believe in Jesus Christ.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, And He’s given us new life.

We believe in the Crucifixion.

We believe that He conquered death.

We believe in the resurrection.

And He’s coming back again.

We believe.

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PRAYER OF THE CHURCH P: Father in heaven, as a diverse Christian community made up of individuals from many backgrounds and places, we joyfully come before You in prayer, asking that You graciously hear us for the sake of Christ alone.

P: Help me not worry about the future. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Heal the sick according to Your will. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Thank You for Jesus’ humility and death. Keep us in Him. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Put an end to bullying and putting down others. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Help us take care of this world You created. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Protect all expectant moms and unborn babies. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Keep us safe as we travel home from the Gathering. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Help me live out my identity in Christ as I love others. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

P: Protect Christians who are persecuted for the sake of Christ. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Give us strength to honor you with our bodies. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Give faith in Jesus to people who doubt God exists. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Restore those broken by abuse. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Stop war and violence in our world, and give us peace. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Strengthen the community in my youth group and congregation.

Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Grant me courage to share Christ with others. Lord, for the sake of Christ alone, C: Hear our prayer.

P: Joyful in our humility in Christ alone, joyful in our identity in Christ alone, joyful in our community created in Christ alone, we pray all these things in the name of Christ alone.

C: Amen.

P: C: P: C: P: C: P:

The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Lift up your hearts.

We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give Him thanks and praise.

It is truly good, right, and salutary that we should at all times and in all places give thanks to You, O Lord our God, king of all creation, for You have had mercy on us and given Your only-begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

Therefore with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify Your glorious Name evermore praising You and saying:

SANCTUS Choir: Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!

Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!

God in three persons, blessèd Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee, Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, Which wert, and art, and evermore shalt be.

Thou art holy, Thou art holy, Thou art holy!

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SERVICE OF THE SACRAMENT

PREFACE

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All: Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!

All Thy works shall praise Thy name in earth and sky and sea.

Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!

God in three persons, blessèd Trinity!

Choir: Amen, Amen.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING P: Blessed are You, Lord of heaven and earth, for You have had mercy on those whom You created and sent Your only-begotten Son into our flesh to bear our sin and be our Savior. With repentant joy, we receive the salvation accomplished for us by the all-availing sacrifice of His body and His blood on the cross.

Gathered in the name and the remembrance of Jesus, we beg You, O Lord, to forgive, renew, and strengthen us with Your Word and Spirit.

Grant us faithfully to eat His body and drink His blood as He bids us do in His own testament. Gather us together, we pray, from the ends of the earth to celebrate with all the faithful the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, which has no end. Graciously receive our prayers; deliver and preserve us. To You alone, O Father, be all glory, honor and worship, with the Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C: Amen.

THE WORDS OF OUR LORD P: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night when He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to the disciples and said: “Take, eat; this is My T body, which is given for you. This do in remembrance of Me.” In the same way also He took the cup after supper, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying: “Drink of it, all of you; this cup is the new testament in My T blood, which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” PROCLAMATION OF CHRIST P: As often as we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.

C: Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

P: O Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, in giving us Your body and blood to eat and to drink, You lead us to remember and confess Your holy cross and passion, Your blessed death, Your rest in the tomb, Your resurrection from the dead, Your ascension into heaven, and Your coming for the final judgment. So remember us in Your kingdom and teach us to pray:

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LORD’S PRAYER C: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name,

Thy kingdom come,

Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven;

give us this day our daily bread;

and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us;

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom

and the power and the glory

forever and ever. Amen.

PAX DOMINI P: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

C: Amen.

AGNUS DEI Solo: O Christ, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us!

All: O Christ, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us!

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O Christ, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, grant us Thy peace! Amen.

Sit

Gluten-free wafers and non-alcoholic wine will be served at three stations indicated by RED STREAMERS on Communion Banners.

DISTRIBUTION “What Is This Bread?”

Choir: What is this bread?

Christ’s body risen from the dead: This bread we break, this life we take, Was crushed to pay for our release.

O taste and see—the Lord is peace.

by Kurt von Kampen

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OFFERING Offerings will be received after communing at each Communion station.

Offerings will be used to support the city of New Orleans through Gathering Servant Events, congregational youth ministry grants and LCMS Youth Ministry programs.

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What is this wine?

The blood of Jesus shed for mine; The cup of grace brings His embrace Of life and love until I sing!

O taste and see—the Lord is King.

So who am I, That I should live and He should die Under the rod? My God, my God, Why have You not forsaken me?

O taste and see—the Lord is free.

Yet is God here?

Oh, yes! By Word and promise clear, In mouth and soul, He makes us whole— Christ, truly present in this meal.

O taste and see—the Lord is real.

All: Is this for me?

I am forgiven and set free!

I do believe that I receive His very body and His blood.

O taste and see—the Lord is good.

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“The Water Is Wide” (Wind Symphony) “Jesus Messiah” He became sin, who knew no sin, That we might become His righteousness.

He humbled himself and carried the cross.

Love so amazing, love so amazing.

Jesus Messiah, name above all names Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel, The rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

His body the bread, His blood the wine, Broken and poured out all for love, The whole earth trembled, and the veil was torn.

Love so amazing, love so amazing, yeah Jesus Messiah, name above all names Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel The rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

All our hope is in You, all our hope is in You, All the glory to You, God, the light of the world.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

by Kirby

by Chris Tomlin

Jesus Messiah, name above all names, Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel, The rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

“Gaudete” (Choir)

by Michael Engelhardt

English translation: Rejoice, rejoice! Christ is born Of the Virgin Mary: rejoice!

It is now the time of grace, That we have desired; Let us devoutly return Songs of rejoicing God has become man And nature marvels; The world has been renewed

By Christ who is King.

Therefore let our song, Now resound in purification; Let it give praises to the Lord; Salvation to our King.

Hymn Let all mortal flesh keep silence, and with fear and trembling stand; ponder nothing earthly-minded, for with blessing in His hand, Christ our God to earth descendeth, our full homage to demand.

“Let All Mortal Flesh”

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Rank on rank the host of heaven spreads its vanguard on the way, as the Light of light descendeth from the realms of endless day, that the powers of hell may vanish as the darkness clears away.

At His feet the six-winged seraph, cherubim, with sleepless eye, veil their faces to the presence, as with ceaseless voice they cry: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Lord Most High!

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King of kings, yet born of Mary, as of old on earth He stood, Lord of lords, in human vesture, in the body and the blood; He will give to all the faithful His own self for heavenly food.

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“Joy in All Things” (Wind Symphony)

Balmages

Stand DISMISSAL P: The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen and preserve you in body and soul to life everlasting. Depart T in peace.

C: Amen.

POST-COMMUNION COLLECT P: Let us pray.

We give thanks to You, almighty God, that You have refreshed us through this salutary gift, and we implore You that of Your mercy You would strengthen us through the same in faith toward You and fervent love toward one another; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C: Amen.

BENEDICTION P: The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you.

The Lord look upon you with favor and T give you peace.

C: Amen.

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WORDS FROM SAINT PAUL Closing Hymn

“The Church’s One Foundation”

ALL: The Church’s one foundation Is Jesus Christ, her Lord; She is His new creation By water and the Word.

From heav’n He came and sought her To be His holy bride; With His own blood He bought her, And for her life He died.

Elect from ev’ry nation, Yet one o’er all the earth; Her charter of salvation: One Lord, one faith, one birth.

One holy name she blesses, Partakes one holy food, And to one hope she presses With ev’ry grace endued.

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

Choir: Though with a scornful wonder The world sees her oppressed, By schisms rent asunder, By heresies distressed, Yet saints their watch are keeping; Their cry goes up, “How long?”

And soon the night of weeping Shall be the morn of song.

All: Through toil and tribulation And tumult of her war She waits the consummation Of peace forevermore Till with the vision glorious Her longing eyes are blest, And the great Church victorious Shall be the Church at rest.

Yet she on earth has union With God, the Three in One, And mystic sweet communion With those whose rest is won.

O blessèd heav’nly chorus!

Lord, save us by Your grace That we, like saints before us, May see You face to face.

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T Soli Deo Gloria T

Copyright In Christ Alone Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. Copright © 2001 Thankyou Music.

Adm. EMI Christian Music Publishing. Used with permission. CCLI #508491 Jesus Messiah Daniel Carson, Ed Cash, Jesse Reeves, Chris Tomlin. Copyright © 2008 Sixsteps Music Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing. Used with permission. CCLI #508491.

This is The Feast Divine Service, Setting One from Lutheran Service Book.

Created by Lutheran Service Builder © 2006 Concordia Publishing House.

We Believe Richie Fike, Matthew Hooper, Travis Ryan. Copyright © 2013. Integrity Worship Music Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing (IMI). CCLI #508491.

What is This Bread?

Kurt von Kampen Copyright © 1991. Fred and Jean Baue. CCLI #508491.

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Worship Acknowledgments: Worship Directors: Rev. Ron Roma & Rev. Matthew Clark Worship Manager: Allen Loesel Video Design, Staging, Processional and Art: Rev. Steve Roma Preacher: Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison Presiding Minister: Rev. Bart Day Assisting Minister: Rev. Warren L. Lattimore Choir Director: Dr. Kurt von Kampen Wind Symphony Director: Dr. Richard Fischer Gathering House Band: Adam Countryman Choreographer: Diane Wardenburg Technical Producer: Kurt Bickel Technical Director: Rev. Steve Benson Banner Bearers: Concordia, Kirkwood, MO; Immanuel, St. Charles, MO; Ascension, St. Louis, MO Assisting: Holy Cross Lutheran, Clayton, N.C. Sponsoring Congregation: Saint Paul NE Lutheran Church, New Orleans Communion Coordinators: Rev. Matthew Clark & Rev. Tom Roma Procession Coordinators: Pamela Loesel & Cindy Roma Altar Guild: New Orleans congregations and schools Music Composers: Matthew Machemer, Reber Clark Music Transcriber: Benjamin Culli, Jeremy Bankson Video: Inspirmedia Ministries, Lincoln, NE Audio: Special Event Services, Winston-Salem, NC

Gathering HelpLine: 504-670-4400 or text 69050 with keyword “NYG”

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