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A ‘Fast & Fun’ Weekend
A new and exciting sailing experience for Los Angeles/Iowa youth
(see photos below)
On Sunday, July 28, 2002, seventy Lutheran,
high school-aged youth gathered on the beach in Long Beach, California,
for an early morning worship service. This was followed by a day of fun
and education sponsored by US SAILING, Mr. Art Stevens of El Segundo,
California, and the Pacific Southwest District of the Lutheran Church,
Missouri Synod. The youth included those from churches in inner city Los
Angeles, a group of young people who were visiting Los Angeles from
churches in Iowa, and youth from the Lutheran Churches in the South Bay
area of Los Angeles County.
The event was a great
success. The vast majority of participants had never sailed before, yet
after about two hours of instruction, it was amazing to see these young
people handling a boat safely and confidently on their own. Equally
amazing was the sparkle in the eyes of many of these young people as they
realized the joy of sailing. The weather conditions were perfect for
beginning sailors. The participants experienced sailing Hobie Cats,
Kayaking and windsurfing. The powerboat, supplied by the Alamitos Bay
Yacht Club, rescued a few windsurfers who could not figure out how to sail
back to the beach.
Another important result
of this day was the sense of camaraderie that developed within this
multi-cultural group of young people. They began the day sitting with
their own groups. By the end of the day they were all together, hugging
and taking group pictures with their new friends. What a great day!
On a personal note, I
must admit that I had a great time, too. At this event I began learning
how to sail. The very next day I went out and bought my first book on
sailing. I can’t wait to set sail again and to learn more. My experience
was echoed by many of the adults who were present.
By Pastor Steven C.
Carlson
First Lutheran Church
Manhattan Beach, California
View from the beach
Click on image to enlarge |
