This year the ELCA Youth Gathering hosted young adult Lutherans for the first time. The Young Adult Ministry, a network of young adult programs across the ELCA, was able to come together to expand access beyond those in high school, to those ages 18-35.
The Young Adult Ministry was especially excited to join the Gathering because the 2021 Youth Gathering had been cancelled due to COVID-19. It’s no secret among ELCA young people that they were disappointed not to attend the 2021 event. The Young Adult Ministry team was glad to provide those who had missed out on the event with an opportunity to experience all the joy and inspiration that the Gathering offers.
“Whenever you do something for the first time, you can be sure you’ll learn a lot,” said Daniel Kirschbaum, senior director for ELCA young adult communities. “It’s energizing to hear feedback from youth and young adult participants that they’re excited for the next opportunity for young adults in the church to gather.”
