Getting ready!

The time is here!  

PITTSBURGH YOUTH CONVENTION...HERE WE COME!  

The theme this year is:

This is a play on words as Pittsburg is the only city in the USA that has 446 bridges within its city limits. Built on the banks of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers which combine to form the Ohio River. Yet this week, as we physically cross bridge after bridge within the city itself, we will also be delving into what it means to be a bridge for others in bringing them to Christ, how Jesus is a bridge builder for us, and how we ourselves are invited to cross to be united with God.  The scripture theme is taken from 2 Corinthians 5:16-20. 

As you follow us this week, each of us will be taking turns writing and reflecting on our experience here--from the logistical details to our personal reflections on how the convention is stretching and growing our faith. It would be great to know you are following along, so feel free to add comments to our posts.  

When Maren called to ask if I'd be interested in taking the youth to the Mennonite Convention USA  this year in Pittsburgh, PA way back in September, I quickly said "YES!" knowing how formational and deeply transformative the Youth Conventions have been in my own growing-up years.  

And here we stand, at the threshold of convention week, July 4-9, full of promise and expectation to meet and experience God in new ways, to bond with each other, as well as catch a glimpse of the connectivity of the larger Church and to find our place within.  

C'ville youth and Rachel being commissioned for the convention by Pastor Maren.
Sunday, July 3, 2011

We covet your prayers are we embark on this wonderful journey, knowing that God has gone before us, preparing the way ahead. May our hearts be ready and willing to receive, may we have eyes to see these Divine encounters and courage to enter in.  

Thanks for journeying with us. 

I find it an honor to companion these amazing young men and women.

~Rachel