Each year, our Crossroads Youth participate in a summer trip. In 2007, and every three years, we participate in the National Youth Gathering for the LCMS. On the other two years, we participate in Group Workcamps. Workcamps are an opportunity for students to put their faith into practice as they serve residents in towns all across America (this year, we head to Piqua, OH) through home repairs and visitation. Many of the residents that receive our services are not only in need of the home repairs, but they also enjoy the time spent sharing with the youth–both hearing from the students and sharing their own stories.
In my seven years of ministry, I’ve yet to find something as meaningful as mission trips in the lives of youth. They are looking for opportunities to serve and make a difference. Workcamps provide that opportunity while also exploring the Scriptures in new and interesting ways. This year the theme is “Love Out Loud” from 1 John 3:18:
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
I’m excited to see how our youth will grow as they dig into this great verse. It fits so well with our philosophy of putting faith into action that you would think we picked it ourselves. Rather, it’s just another instance of God working things for the good of His people as he put it on the hearts of Group Workcamps to use this theme. Imagine the impact of over 30,000 youth from around the country coming together to Love Out Loud? What would it look like if we Loved Out Loud every day?
Jason,
I love your blog! I enjoy the hyperlinks that pop up when you mouse over. You are a good writer and a blessing to our youth. I really, really like that theme “Love Out Loud.” That says it all.
Tracy
Thanks! The preview bubble is actually a feature of the blog, not anything special that I did. The theme is definitely a fun one. I’m looking forward to exploring it with the youth.