The Youth Gathering raised more than $1 million, thanks to worship
offerings from both weeks and the “Hamiltons for Hunger” appeal.
Offerings, which totaled about $580,000, will benefit domestic and
international ministries that support children, youth and families.
In the “Hamiltons for Hunger” effort, every gathering participant was
asked to bring $30 or “three Hamiltons” to raise $1 million for the
ELCA World Hunger Appeal. More than $530,000 was raised as of July 17.
In addition to cash donations, about $100,000 in gift cards was also
collected during the gathering to benefit six San Antonio
organizations.
The ServantLife component of the Youth
Gathering crossed the boundaries of traditional work projects,
incorporating service as a way of life. Through three types of
experiences—care, culture and construction—more than 1,000 youth
ventured into San Antonio each day to serve and learn from their
neighbors. Armed with water bottles, boxed lunches and a thirst to
serve, groups departed from the Alamodome to their unique destinations.
At the Guadalupe Community Center, youth from Trinity Lutheran Church,
Robesonia, Pa., donated books and spent the afternoon reading and
playing games with elementary school kids. Making instant friends
seemed to be on the agenda of the kids, who jumped into their visitors’
arms without hesitation.
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© 2013 Augsburg Fortress, Publishers
