Alarms went off a couple of hours after midnight for everyone to be able to make it to the church parking lot by 3:30am this morning. Talk about bright and early…and by bright, I mean very DARK.
We got everyone checked in, bags loaded into cars, joined together in prayer, and headed on our way to the airport. Travel was very smooth with the exception of a small delay in Dallas. Praise be to God!
Upon arriving in New Orleans, you could already feel the energy in the air. Several other youth groups were at baggage claim and waiting for shuttle rides. The reality of the next six days started to set in during our shuttle ride to the hotel, seeing quite a bit of the city and banners made just for the Youth Gathering lining the streets on light poles. We definitely aren’t in Sun Prairie anymore!
Once we made it to the hotel, a few adults were able to make their way over to the convention center for registration and to collect several items that all participants and adult leaders receive – a Bible, Concordia Chicago sponsored t-shirt, and a Gathering branded drawstring bag just to name a few. The rest of the group made their way to the Riverwalk and enjoyed some ice cream on a very HOT day.
For dinner, we ate at the Red Fish Grill that provides a very traditional New Orleans-style menu. The night closed with small group Bible study.
Tomorrow holds more adventures, including our district event, touring the WWII museum, and participating in the first Gathering mass event. It will certainly be another full day with tired feet, but it will be a truly wonderful day and incredible start to Gathering programming.
Blessings to everyone back home! Thank you for your continued prayers!
11:22pm. It’s time for bed.
