Mounting fears and risk from the Coronavirus have led us to make the difficult decision to cancel the Missouri District Junior High Gathering, scheduled for March 27-29, 2020 at Camp Windermere, Lake of the Ozarks. We have consulted with experts and reviewed Centers for Disease Control recommendations. Even with safety precautions, spreading germs among middle schoolers in close proximity is unavoidable. The care of our young people and church members comes first.

By design, the Missouri District Junior High Gathering seeks to bring middle school students from Lutheran congregations in all parts of the state into one place to worship, celebrate, connect and serve in Jesus’ Name over three days’ time; to send them back into their churches, communities and families equipped and empowered to live their faith.

Congregations and individuals who have already registered for the ministry event will be refunded. We will be working in the coming days to share some of the fantastic content developed by our presenter, Mrs. Sarah Salzberg, on our Missouri District website and through social media. Planning is already underway for next year’s Junior High Gathering. The theme and presenter will be announced in the coming months.

In Jesus we do not fear the challenges of the day. He has come to carry our sins and sorrows to His cross, that we might have a life filled with hope! Our theme verse from Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” May this peace rule in your life today and always.

In Christ’s Service,

Rev. Dr. Lee Hagan                                        Dan Kreienkamp

District President                                            Assistant for Family Life and Youth