Home field advantage

By Pastor John Hulden

Pictures tell stories. Take a look at this photograph (on the right) from May 1919.

These are St. Olaf College students, canoeing down the Cannon River to Red Wing, Minnesota, to attend … (take a deep breath and say out loud): “The First National Convention of the Young People’s Luther League and the Choral Union of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.”

In 1917, three Norwegian Lutheran church bodies merged to form The Norwegian Lutheran Church of America. Within a few years, a wonderful idea was hatched: A Youth Gathering! In Red Wing! With a really big choir!

Thanks to the on-top-of-it archivists at ELCA Churchwide and Luther Seminary, I can quote you some of the promotional material from this auspicious event:

If you have not already done so, take your calendars and mark now a Big Red Ring around the dates May 16, 17, and 18 for your attendance upon the forthcoming Convention of Young People. … By all means, do not miss this great Convention and an enthusiasm that cannot help but create a resolve to live better and to labor more than in the past. The value of Convention life to all who attend them is educational and inspirational. … Until you attend a convention of Young People’s Luther League you never know what numbers and talent there is in the Lutheran Church. … Those fortunate to attend will not be disappointed.

And, one more quote you need to read:

Come and enjoy three happy wholesome days with the people of Red Wing. Clear everything out of the way and let us meet you there. You will return refreshed in mind and in spirit, having attended a Convention which you will never forget — a better Luther Leaguer and Christian for having gone.  –Ida M. Vigen, Lutheran Church Herald, Vol. III, No. 14, pp. 1-2

A few photos from this amazing event in Red Wing:

Have you heard that Minneapolis is hosting ELCA Youth Gathering June 29-July 3, 2021?

“Thirty-five thousand young Lutherans showing up at our convention center, football stadium, congregations and non-profit organizations.”

Well, in 102 years the promo materials have not changed much. You should bring your teenagers. Encourage your people to volunteer. Thirty-five thousand young Lutherans showing up at our convention center, football stadium, congregations and non-profit organizations. Check out https://elca.org/YouthGathering, and this video here.

By all means, do not miss this great Convention and an enthusiasm that cannot help but create a resolve to live better and to labor more than in the past. … You will return refreshed in mind and in spirit, having attended a Convention which you will never forget — a better Luther Leaguer and Christian for having gone.

Well said, Ida M. Vigen.