2020 WELS International Youth Rally canceled

WELS has decided to cancel the 2020 WELS International Youth Rally, scheduled for June 23-26 in Knoxville, Tenn. As it’s unknown how long and significant the impact of COVID-19 will be along with the financial toll this crisis is taking on families and congregations, it was decided, in the best interest of our congregations and families, to postpone the event until the next scheduled rally in 2022. An e-mail was sent to all who had already registered regarding a refund of the rally fees.

The WELS Commission on Discipleship is exploring options to make resources available online from the key presentations that were scheduled for the rally for youth groups and members to use.

“Seeing Christ Clearly. Serving Christ Boldly” was the theme for the rally. This theme for Christian living is more relevant now than ever. Through resources, Bible studies, and community service ideas the Commission on Discipleship hopes to make available this summer, WELS youth will still be able to receive this important message and use it as motivation and inspiration to share the light of Christ at home and in their communities.

“We know this opportunity is important for our youth as a way to get and stay connected to God’s Word. It is unfortunate that in such unprecedented times we must make these difficult decisions,” says Rev. Donn Dobberstein, director of WELS Commission on Discipleship. “Praise God that we know he is in control of all things in heaven and on earth. ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose’ (Romans 8:28).”

An additional note: The Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society will announce by mid-May its plans regarding its annual convention this summer.