Young Ambassadors Generation 7

July 24, 2019-Day 14

Generation 7 had a very busy day yesterday! The group was assigned a task to deliver an entire worship service to a progressive, open and affirming church; Peace United Church of Christ in St. Louis.

First thing in the morning, we collaborated about ideas for the theme of our worship service. The YA programming theme of the week was “Love of Children”. We had also been volunteering at Peace UCC’s children program - Freedom School. As a group, we felt that Peace UCC really focuses on love of children. So, love of children was the theme of our worship.

After we came up with a worship theme, we split into 4 different worship prep groups. One group was called “ushers” which meant that they had to greet people coming into the church service, collect offering, and help serve communion. Another group was in charge of creating all of the prayers for the worship. The third group selected the music for the service. And the final group was in charge of delivering the messages. They had to pick out scripture, give a message to the children, and provide a sermon for the worship.

After some work time, we came back together as a group to run through the entire worship. Then we walked to lunch a few blocks away to a nice restaurant with huge portions.

In the afternoon, we also walked to Peace UCC. The group volunteered working with the Freedom School at Peace. The Freedom School is a summer school program that works on improving reading skills and boosts a child’s confidence. They play games, sing songs and chants, and do art. The children also receive 2 meals a day and a snack. This program is throughout St. Louis UCC churches. It is free to all children to join and has been growing in popularity in the past few years. The Young Ambassadors played in the afternoon with the Freedom Scholars (the children who are a part of the Freedom School).

We ate supper at Peace UCC. We had pasta, salad, garlic bread, and ice cream. It was delicious!

Then, Gen. 7 provided a beautiful worship service for Peace UCC. I was very proud of our group.

The night closed with a vespers service back at Eden Seminary (where we were staying). The vespers was led by Nikita and Leonie B. They reflected on how children with disabilities should be valued and treated just like all other children.

It was an impactful day, full of hard work. The group was up for the task and I’m excited to see what they do for final worship in a few days.

Lydia