Zion Youth Gathering 2018: What A Day! The Gathering Begins

What a day! Our first day in Detroit proper began by getting picked up by the ever generous Our Savior's Lutheran in Owatonna. Together we ventured to a local church known for its connection to the Underground Railroad. Together we were shuffled in small groups through the church's basement that was set up to simulate the scary, awful truth of the slave trade and a few of the stories of those who made it to freedom after making it to Canada. Many of the group felt amazed and somewhat terrified thinking about what it must have been like to risk so much and find freedom.

After processing the experience as a group we headed over to a delicious lunch spot -Slow's- for some wonderful barbacue! We had quite a bit of food left over and went around asking people we walking by if they wanted any extras. It was a great chance to share stories with some local Detroiters.

After we parted ways with Our Savior's we headed downtown to the Cobo Center to experience some of the fun stuff they have to offer! Games, activities, worship prayer galore! We look forward to exploring more tomorrow.

The night ended with a bang as the Gathering finally began officially! We worshipped, prayed, sang, laughed, danced and cheered with 30,000 other Lutherans. Many in our group were challenged and inspired by the main speaker's message. He called us to Rise Up and not be silent for the things that matter. Especially those things Jesus would not be silent about.

We'll continue to process what this means for us as we go about our week. Hold is in prayer as we listen and learn from our peers tomorrow!

Here are some photo highlights:

Morning stretches outside the hotel led by Jenny