Here are some pictures from our week of Orientation in Chicago. These pics are of the YAGM group as we bonded and learned about what it is like to me a missionary in global service. Some of the big things we learned about during the week were how to walk with each other and our communities in solidarity, accompaniment, and mutuality. We talked about racial justice, religious pluralism, and cross-cultural competencies. We also discussed how to communicate our experiences and how to engage global issues as people of faith. I unfortunately don't have any pictures of our closing worship on Tuesday night, but it was probably the most powerful service I have ever been to. I don't think a single person, either on staff or of the 63 YAGM's, had a dry face at the end. It was a moment that's for sure. Enjoy the pics!

This is the whole YAGM 2014-2015 group

Some of us gathering in the Courtyard

Gathering at Lake Michigan

The UK group on "disorientation" night where we had to find our country alumni who was at a restaurant somewhere in the city and the only way to find her and the restaurant was to use clues. Above: Andrea and Catie. 

(Vicky, Anastasia, and Paige)

(Justin and Matt)

We found it!

Cheers

The Chicago Bean at night

some of the lovely ladies at lunch one afternoon

During the week we would get together in a designated small group and talk. My small group became like a family and we formed a friendship what will last a lifetime. I title this picture Small Group Love!

The

beautiful

courtyard

Our sanctuary. Literally and figuratively.

The Rwanda group

The 5 ladies who would be spending the first 10 days in London together. Getting ready to board our plane.