Small Groups (aka Bible Study)
Small group time is a vital part of The Gathering’s ministry. Participants will convene in small groups assigned at registration on six different occassions during the event. Scripture, discussions, and activities based around the theme compose the small group sessions. Small groups will be lead by a peer participant with assistance from an adult co-leader.
We are looking for adults to co-lead bible studies with youth. If you are interested in co-leading with a youth please contact Kimberly Read by email at Kread24@yahoo.com or phone 231.448.2139.
Recreation Options & Dance
Gathering Participants will enjoy daily recreation options such as a euchre tournament, board games, art projects, movies, karaoke, self-defense classes, Gathering Olympics and more! The theme of this year’s dance is “Lost in Jesus’ Jungle.” Dress to impress in your jungle best!
Skillshops
Participants will have the opportunity to sign up for a variety of skillshops. Skillshops are designed to meet the varied skills and interests of participants. Sessions such as meeting the bands, learning the theology of Disney, asking difficult faith questions, doing service projects, playing camp games, and more will be offered at The Gathering in 2009.
Peer Ministry
Peer Ministry is a group of trained high school age youth assigned to look after their fellow participants spiritual well being during The Gathering. If you’re feeling lost, Peer Ministry will be there for support and prayers, but also will serve as guides in the Radisson (our new location for 2009).
Peer Ministry Volunteers are needed to serve during the Gathering as a visual welcoming presence during registration, on-floor support during specific activities, prayer support during Mass Gathering sessions, and general support for youth in crisis during free time. If you have attended LTS or ALTS or have been trained in Peer Ministry and are interested in serving on the Peer Minsitry team, please contact Rebecca Couser: 248.442.8822 or by e-mail at
youth@emmanuel-livonia.org.
Covenant
Security for The Gathering is provided through the graciousness of volunteers that patrol hallways, and enforce rules and guidelines for behavior and participation. Volunteers (preferrably over the age of 21) are needed to help staff this force! Contact Roxie or Jerry at 989.426.9759 or email at roxilady26@hotmail.com.
In Kind Offering
Each year The Gathering supports other ministries or organizations through promoting an in-kind offering. Each registered group is invited to bring items to The Gathering to donate. We will collect these items and deliver them once The Gathering has concluded.
2010 in-kind beneficiaries include:
LSSM and Spirit of Hope Food Bank in Detroit
Items Needed:
LSSM: Toddlers – children 12 years old need new pajamas. Teen-agers- new coats, hats, gloves, and mittens.
Spirit of Hope Food Bank: Non-perishable items; Soups, Tuna, Cereal, Mac & Cheese, Pasta, Canned Fruits and Vegetables, Peanut Butter, Etc.
Contact Jeff Pezzell at (248) 909-5756 or J_pezzell@yahoo.com with any questions.
Penny Offering
Gathering registration scholarships are funded by the annual Penny Offering that takes place at The Gathering. Freshman, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and adult leaders compete in an effort to provide this meaningful experience for others who can’t afford it. Points are awarded for pennies, and subtracted for other change and bills. Bring your pennies to help your team and bring other change & bills to deficit other teams!
Save Your Pop Tabs!
Please save and bring your pop tabs to Gathering to donate to the Ronald McDonald House. The Ronald McDonald House returns the tabs and earns money to pay their bills.
Gathering T-Shirts
2009 Gathering t-shirts will be provided free for participants registered by November 15th. Participants registering after November 15th will not receive a t-shirt.
Packing Basics
Bibles, pen or pencil, forms, clothes, toiletries, swim suits, coolers (for food), food or money for eating out, games for congregational time, and a willingness to grow in faith and have fun!
Meals
Participants provide their own meals. There are many restaurants located in the vicinity of The Radisson in downtown Lansing. The restaurant is also providing a special menu with affordable pricing during The Gathering. View the menu.
