What Is SERVE? Watch the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering Webinar
Congregations beginning to plan for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering, June 28–July 2 in Minneapolis, can now watch the “What Is SERVE?” webinar introducing a new service and accompaniment opportunity for Gathering participants.
SERVE will take place Monday, June 28, as an optional, all-day add-on to the Gathering. Participants will spend part of the day serving alongside local organizations in the Twin Cities, meeting neighbors, listening to their stories and learning about the communities that call Minneapolis home. Groups will then reflect on their experience and develop an action plan for continuing service in their own communities. (Learn more at ELCA)
Rooted in the Lutheran practice of accompaniment, SERVE emphasizes walking alongside neighbors with humility, curiosity and love rather than simply doing something for others. The goal is to help young people connect service with discipleship and bring what they learn in Minneapolis back to their congregations and communities.
Watch the “What Is SERVE?” webinar:
Watch on YouTube
Space for SERVE is limited to 4,000 participants and will be assigned first-come, first-served. The cost is $100 per person and includes three hours of hands-on service, project supplies, lunch, a SERVE T-shirt, transportation to and from the service site for groups traveling by plane or train, the action-planning session and floor seating for the June 28 Mass Gathering.
Congregational leaders should also begin marking several important Gathering dates. Priority registration opens Oct. 21 and closes Nov. 11, 2026; regular registration opens Nov. 12. Financial assistance applications will be accepted Oct. 1–16. A series of webinars will continue throughout the coming months, including “Registration 101” on Sept. 24.
View all 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering key dates and upcoming webinars
The 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering will bring young people and adult leaders together in Minneapolis for worship, faith formation, community and opportunities to live out their faith. The Gathering’s theme, “Imagine More,” is drawn from Ephesians 3:20.