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Opening night at the Superdome


Despite filling just half of the Superdome’s seats, the roar Hanson received may have rivaled that of Saints fans on Sundays.


Philip Ciulla, an adult chaperone from Saddle Creek, N.J., said he and his congregation’s youth were pleased that the gathering addressed concerns such as the environ- ment. “I think it’s becoming more progressive,” he said. “Our kids … are pretty much on board with this stuff.” Other young people highlighted the ELCA’s stance on acceptance of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community as a positive change. Karl Weaver, 17, of Bettendorf, Iowa, said his change came in the growth of his faith. “Being part of this incred- ible experience has encouraged me to spread God’s word to as many people as possible, whether if it’s through a sermon or interacting with people,” he said. Following Hanson’s spirited speech, the Youth Gather-


ing officially began under the theme “Citizens with the Saints.”


Earlier in the week, from July 16-18, the gathering held a Multicultural Youth Leadership Event and a Defi- nitely Abled Youth Leadership Event. These pre-sessions included more than 600 participants, empowering youth of color and youth living with disabilities. The groups lis- tened to speakers and presenters, and went out on service- learning projects.


Melina Estrada, a MYLE participant from Chicago, praised the events, calling them an amazing experience. “The atmosphere was wonderful and friendly,” she said. “Everyone was welcoming and open-minded to every- thing and everyone’s ideas. The small groups were a won- derful time to make new friends and share ideas.” On July 18, DAYLE and MYLE participants were joined by more than 30,000 others for the Youth Gather- ing—a three-day celebration full of worship, interactive sessions, dancing and, most importantly, change. Each day began with an early morning, large group worship followed by hours of free time at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. It was home to numerous learning sessions, including an anti-bullying workshop,


The Roots of Music band


Reading to the boys at the local community center


Painting at Reed High School September 2012 15


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