Holy Trinity at the Gathering

Sunday we went to worship. It was so beautiful. Seeing the big wave we did with 38000 people was awesome! The props were cool; doves on sticks and umbrellas symbolizing the holy Spirit reigns. 38000 people taking communion, sharing God’s peace. It was very memorable. Afterwards we had some lunch once more in NO, then we did some last minute souvenier shopping. I got the usuals, tshirt, cookbook, etc. But once I got home, I realized the best souveniers I came home with would be the bruises on my arms, from moving boxes and desks, (I’m okay, I bruise easily! ); helping to make a difference at their schools. The blisters on my feet from walking to each activity; learning why we were there and meeting others, getting closer to God through worship and service. The pinhole on my inner elbow from getting over my fear and giving blood to those who may need it. Finally, the fading “faux” tatoo on my arm of The Fish that reminded me how many Christians I was with all under the same beliefs, and the same cause. Thank you to all of you that help make this wonderful experience happen. Again, Mamma Bear Peggy, I still can’t thank you enough!

Our final day was filled with worship — we shared Communion with 37,000 people! — and last-minute shopping, before heading for the airport.  The closing worship had some fantastic touches.  After a week spent talking about — and acting out — service and working for justice, the processional brought in worklights, traffic cones, and building materials.  The altar was four doors, brightly painted, set on sawhorses, with a green tarp for a parament.  A very nice touch.

Bishop Hanson preached, and did an excellent job of hammering home the thought that these young people can change the world, and that they can and must continue the work they’ve begun.  Oh, and he led a wave, which rippled from the front all the way to the back of the 3rd balcony and back — a very cool sight with 37,000 people!

When we arrived at the Atlanta airport, I had warned our group that, despite a 2-hour layover this time, we were going straight from our arrival to our departure gate, so that we would know immediately and completely where it was, and then, and only then, could they get something to eat.  So that’s what we did — and of course, the departure gate this time was right nextdoor.  Figures. 

We arrived at Holy Trinity at 2am, to find a marvelous “Welcome Home” sign on the front entryway.  Thanks to everyone for your prayers and for your support to make this happen.  For me, it was a fulfilling and transformational experience; I will leave it to the youth to tell you what it meant for them.  So be sure to ask them when you see them.

Oh, and watch for August’s Parish Visitor (newsletter) for more reflections to come…

Peace,

-Pastor Tim