Greetings from the midst of the the busy season for First Lutheran youth! As always, we’ve hit out stride as we begin a series of large annual events.
We had an amazing December in youth and family territory, with a wonderful Christmas Play (a million thanks to the cast and their families) and many volunteer and fellowship opportunities. I always think I’d like to take the Christmas season a little slower, but if we did we would miss out on many amazing things. Now it’s time for all of the things that happen after Christmas.
Our first big thing in January has been the final deadline to sign up for our 2011 mission trip (we’re going to Charleston, WV in July). So far we have great numbers despite a less convenient week. I am most encouraged, though, that this service trip is a major priority for our youth and their families. More than one person has told me that it’s going to be tricky to make it work… but they are going to come anyway, even if it means rearranging other things in their schedule. It’s going to be an amazing group, and I couldn’t be more proud of them.
Next, moving into February our first big event will be the Super Bowl Sub Sale on February 6. The order deadline is January 26, but if you’ve missed the deadline we do make some extra subs. Just be sure to get them early, because they always go quickly! Our subs are always tasty, and they help us pay for our mission trip each year.
The very next Sunday, February 13, we’ll be headed out for Valentine’s Caroling, after the second service. There will be pizza to share, songs to sing, and great company! Even if you don’t know all the songs, bring your smile and you’ll be very welcome. (If you can, please sign up in Wittenberg Hall to help us prepare.)
The big news for February is something that is happening in March: the 30 Hour Famine. We will do our Famine March 4-5, including thirty hours of fasting and an overnight at church, plus lots of service, learning, worship, and fun. It’s a youth event for ages twelve and up, and there’s also room for adults volunteers. Why do we do it? The fasting itself is part of the experience, and particularly part of the challenge, but the purpose of the event is to raise awareness and funds to help feed people and combat hunger wherever it may be. Please consider sponsoring one or more of the youth participating (you may talk to them at church or donate online), think about how you might be called to help at the event itself, and pray for us as we prepare for our second 30 Hour Famine here at First Lutheran Church. Famine Sunday will be March 6, and we’ll have lots of stories to share!
Famine Weekend will lead into the season of Lent, with the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on March 8, and Ash Wednesday on March 9. We’ll be fasting, and then eating, and that’s a pretty good way to do it!
We have several high school seniors in our midst this year and they are all very busy juggling sports, activities, school, church, work, college applications, and decisions about their futures. Please say a few extra prayers for them is this exciting but very busy time of their lives!