Youths from five local churches are traveling and attending together the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Youth Gathering in New Orleans July 21-28. The churches are: Emmons Lutheran, First Lutheran, Grace Lutheran, Salem Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran.

This year’s theme is “Jesus, Justice & Jazz.” The focus is on servant life. More than 36,000 youths and adults from around the country some from other countries will explore God’s word together and serve in New Orleans. Six service “interest” area have been developed, which are: housing, literacy, environment, arts and culture, health and wellness and wealth and poverty. All attendees have been assigned to one of these areas.

The Albert Lea group will be involved in the area of literacy. Projects in this area will range from cleaning up libraries, reading at pre-schools, being trained and leading reading fairs, advocating for libraries and books in communities of poverty, assisting ESL programs, etc. A goal for those serving in this area is that they will be sent back into their own communities to improve literacy at home.

Young people will mature in faith, grow more confident in their witness of the gospel and find themselves part of God’s love and compassion. The principle of this youth gathering is that, “What happens in New Orleans will not stay in New Orleans — youth are sent home and into the world jazzed for justice, for kindness, and humble walking with God.”

Any support people might be able to share with the group is welcome. Checks may be made out to Salem Lutheran Church, c/o Bekah Sousa and earmarked for ELCA National Youth Gathering. Mail them to Salem Lutheran Church, 115 N. Washington Ave., Albert Lea.

A Dad’s Belgian waffles breakfast will be served Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fairlane Community Building on the Freeborn County Fairgrounds as a fundraiser for this trip. Cost is $6 per person. Children 5 and younger eat free.