Since the last newsletter, we’ve been very busy in youth territory!
The 2011 LYO retreat was January 21-23, at Camp Kern (which is between Springfield and Cincinnati). It was a crazy weekend in southern Ohio – thanks to snow and ice we very nearly had to cancel – but fortunately the roads cleared up just in time for us to make it to camp. It was extremely cold, but the truly amazing retreat really made up for it. For most of us it was exactly what we needed – a chance to relax, renew, and reflect on our very busy lives.
We came back just in time for the final phase of the Super Bowl Sub Sale. Our subs are always tasty, and we always enjoy making them, and this year was no exception. We even had a noticeable increase in sales. Thanks so much for your support… and if you still have subs in your freezer, be sure to enjoy them!
February 13 meant our favorite February event: Valentine’s Caroling. We had a great group of children, teenagers, and adults to sing, and smile, and share a little bit of God’s love with our members who can’t always make it to church on Sundays. It is truly a joy to go caroling at this unusual time of year, and it’s always a very special experience.
Also in February, we finalized our mission trip list, including twelve youth and three adults. We have openings for two adult drivers – let me know if you are interested! It may not be too late to add youth, too, although we can do no longer make guarantees. We’re serving in Charleston, WV this summer, and at this point we’re fully committed with YouthWorks.
The really big thing that happened in February was preparation for our second annual 30 Hour Famine, to be held March 4-5 here at First Lutheran Church. For participants, the Famine includes thirty hours without eating and an overnight at the church. We play and serve, learn and worship, and have a generally wild and crazy time. We don’t do it just to have fun, though (the fasting isn’t particularly fun!), we do it to raise awareness and funds to feed the hungry (donate online!). Money specifically for the Famine goes to World Vision, a Christian relief organization that feeds and cares for people all over the world. First Lutheran also supports our own local food pantry, Rainbow Table, and the broader ELCA World Hunger project.
We are always looking for sponsors, helpers, and friends who’d like to hang out with us for all or part of the Famine. (To join as a participant, you must be at least twelve, and you should sign up in advance.) March 6 will be Famine Sunday, and we’ll have lots of stories to share!
Finally, mark your calendar right away: Lent is right around the corner, and we’ll lead into the season with the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on March 8. Bring a friend, bring a neighbor, and don’t forget to bring your appetite. We’ll have yummy pancakes and great company – you don’t want to miss it! The Pancake Supper also helps us raise money to serve in Charleston this summer.
See you at church!
Yours in Christ,
Erin