LCMS Youth Gathering Sessions

Do you know someone that identifies as transgender? Maybe you know someone that struggles with their gender identity? The internal sense of being male, female or something else is often referred to as an individual’s gender. It may be difficult to understand how our Christian faith impacts the way we think about gender. This session will discuss the identity we have in Christ. You will learn what...

When does a human being's life begin?  You may be surprised to find that science has a clear answer. How do we care for our nearest and most vulnerable neighbor and protect that neighbor from harm? How does that relate to a “post Dobbs” world? Come and find out! This session is presented by Dr. Donna Harrison. Youth and adult sessions recorded at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louis...

Join Deaconess Danelle Putnam Schumann for an engaging Q&A follow-up on her mass event talk about enduring as a missionary. Learn more about missions and how you can put your faith in action. Gain insights into the role of a deaconess and hear inspiring stories of God at work in His people to share the Good News of Jesus throughout the world. This session is presented by Deac. Danelle Putnam Schum...

Social media is funny, fast, and sometimes... a little toxic. So how do we, as followers of Jesus, show love in a world full of likes, shares, and comments? In this session, we’ll talk about how to be mindful of the people around us—both online and in person—and how to live out Jesus’ call to love our neighbor in everyday ways.  This session is presented by Rev. Dr. Bill Harmon. Youth and adult se...

Sports dominate our culture, often demanding our time, passion, and identity. But how do faith and sports connect? Does God care about wins and losses—or is there something greater at play when we compete? In this session, we’ll explore the relationship between Christianity and sport. We’ll look at what Scripture and our faith say about athletics, and how sports can actually deepen our understandi...

In this session, Rev. Dr. Nabil Nour challenges the youth to consider WHO they are and WHOSE they are. Our world has lost its moral compass. Many don't know their identity. Many can't tell what a man or woman is. Some (even Christians) are being challenged in their identity. Speaking in love through the sweet Gospel, he reminds them that they are more than a number— they are divinely created in th...

God’s grace is for everyone: no exceptions! But how do we make sure our friendships, churches, and activities reflect that? This session isn’t about labels; instead, it’s about how the Gospel calls us to love and include all people, no matter their differences. Whether you have special needs, know someone who does, or simply want to better reflect Christ’s love, this session is for you. We’ll expl...

Would you rather sit on the bench… or get in the game? Deep down, we all want to make a difference with the gifts and passions God has given us. God didn’t create you to sit out. Through Baptism, He calls you to play full-out—using your unique talents to love and serve others. When you lead and serve with purpose, you step into your God-given role in something bigger: the Church. In this session,...

Most teenagers and adults feel stressed, overwhelmed, and pulled in a million different directions. Others struggle from FOMO or feeling like they “can’t say no” when asked to help. This session breathes life into weary people by teaching the Biblical foundations of self-care, so you can say “yes” to the right things and live with a sustainable view of success and purpose. Rest like your life depe...

Stereotype. Prejudice. Discrimination. Racism. These are words that are often hard to discuss. When they are talked about, they usually lead to heated debates. How can Christians move beyond, live with, and discuss these words and feelings in a Gospel-centric way? This session is presented by Rev. Vue Lee. Youth and adut sessions recorded at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana....

The Holy Spirit calls us and gathers us. Cities are places where the Holy Spirit calls people and gathers them. The Holy Spirit also enlightens and sanctifies us. Cities are places where the Holy Spirit enlightens us and sanctifies us. As we prepare for the day when the new Jerusalem comes down out of heaven from God and as we anticipate living in that holy city, there are many gifts we may celebr...

The devil uses two tools to smother the Good News of Jesus: (1) fear, and (2) lies. Overcome the "fear" of sharing your faith in Jesus by practicing ways to speak the "truth" about Jesus Christ with others. In this session with Pastor Koch you will explore how Scripture talks about the gracious task of "sowing the seed." You will learn a simple definition of the word "evangelism" and you will role...

Step into the world of artificial intelligence in a session designed for youth ready to make a difference. We’ll explore what AI is, how it works, and why it matters. Learn essential skills, from using AI tools and thinking critically to applying technology in creative, meaningful ways. Most importantly, discover how AI can be used for Christian outreach—sharing the Gospel while staying true to yo...

Christians are under many kinds of spiritual attacks, especially through depression and anxiety. This session offers information and practical advice for dealing with mental health issues and spiritual warfare. This session is presented by Rev. Greg Zillinger & Dr. Sara Zillinger. Youth and adut sessions recorded at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana. For more information abou...

Are you ready for spiritual combat as you serve in the Armed Forces? Just as physical readiness is critical, spiritual readiness is essential. In your Baptism, you were drafted into the Lord’s Army—and the Devil took notice. This session will prepare you to face both visible and invisible battles with strength and faith. We’ll take a deep dive into Ephesians 6 and the Armor of God, exploring how e...

Conflict is inevitable, whether with our closest friends or those we consider enemies. Preparing yourself to navigate these storms is essential so that you don’t end up drowning in the struggle. In this session, we will explore practical strategies for staying anchored in Christ, who provides peace and clarity when relationships get rocky. This session is presented by Tim Handrick, DCE. Youth and...

High school is a time of preparation—not just for college or careers, but for living out your faith in new environments. Many students struggle to stay connected to Christ during college, and the Church has a great opportunity to support them. In this session, we’ll explore why campus outreach matters and how you can be part of it. Whether you're heading to college or supporting others, you'll dis...

The old rule has always been, “work before play.” But when we consider that God designed us as humans to live in tune with Him and with one another, and to delight in sharing life together as God’s creatures, we may need to reconsider the right relationship between our working and our playing. This session is presented by Rev. Dr. Joel Biermann. Youth and adut sessions recorded at the 2025 LCMS Yo...

As a youth living in the world today, it can be isolating—even when surrounded by crowds of people. Let’s have an honest and open conversation about mental health and finding hope in this dark world. Through our Baptism, our identity is secured in Christ. Let’s talk issues, coping skills, interventions, and all things mental health. This session is presented by Angela Kollbaum, DCE. Youth and adut...

We all want to belong, but we hold back—afraid of being judged or misunderstood. God didn’t create us to do life alone; He designed us for real connection—with Him and with each other. Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s how friendships grow deeper, faith grows stronger, and life becomes real. This session will explore how to build trust, break down walls, and create lasting relationships. When we...

Ever wonder why you’re here and what God created you to do? You are not an accident—God designed you with unique gifts, passions, and strengths for a purpose! In this interactive session, we’ll help you uncover how your God-given workmanship shapes your calling in life and how you can make a real impact in the lives of those around you. Join us as we explore what it means to live out your purpose...

In this session, Dr. Nour takes hearers through the First Testament (going back 4500 years) and shows them the conflict, challenges and constant battles of what is going on and the key to solving Israel’s and the Palestinians’ hopelessness. The hearers will come to understand that they are the New Israel through the precious crimson blood of Jesus’ death and glorious resurrection. This session is...

You’ve been told you can be anything, but deep down, do you ever feel like you’re still not enough? Not pretty enough. Not talented enough. Not liked enough. The world keeps shifting the standard, making you chase after something you’ll never catch. But here’s the truth: your worth isn’t something you earn — it’s something Jesus already gave you. His love for you doesn’t change. His grace isn’t ba...

There are three big sources of temptation in every Christian’s life: the Devil, the World, and your own Flesh. All three push you to turn away from God and sin. How do you resist? How do you turn to Christ? Why does this keep happening? In this session, we’ll unpack what leads to sin and what it means to echo Paul’s words in Romans 7: “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of...

This youth-intensive takes a deep dive into Jeremiah’s book that shows us how to overcome emotional and spiritual pain. Tears. Talk. Time. And Torah—God’s all-sufficient and perfect Word. This session is presented by Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing. Youth and adut sessions recorded at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana. For more information about the Gathering, visit lcmsgathering.com.