It happens every three years. Thousands of young adults from across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America come together for a week of faith formation known as the ELCA Youth Gathering. The event includes worship, Bible study, service, and fellowship—and can be a life-changing experience for those who attend.

Since the gathering’s inception over a hundred years ago, Texas Lutheran University has taken an active part, sending volunteers to lend a hand as well as admissions representatives to visit with prospective future Bulldogs. This year, the event took place in New Orleans from July 16-20 with “Created to Be” as its theme. TLU’s Pastor Wes Cain, Director of Admissions Juan Morales, and Admissions Representative Haley Morin made the trip, along with students Charis Wirtley and Ainsley Lake, who were part of the Servant Leader Corps. Director of University Events Jonathan Zitelman worked both at the event and in advance of it as part of the planning team.

“Last week, I had the great pleasure of spending four days in New Orleans with 18,000 of my best friends,” says Cain. “Lutheran high school students and young adults gathered with leaders and volunteers to celebrate our unique connection as a people of faith. We worshipped, played, served, and explored together in deeply impactful ways.”

“Attending the ELCA Youth Gathering was a great opportunity to connect with our community in a greater capacity,” Morales adds. “The opportunity to meet with and learn from prospective students, alumni, and similar institutions is an experience that will assist in our work moving forward.”

The TLU contingent is now safely home resting up—until the next gathering, that is. Cain says, “I can’t wait to do it again in three more years!”