The start of the Olympics AND the IF:Gathering in the same weekend? It’s too much for my nervous system to handle. So how does a girl cope with the perpetual goosebumps covering her ENTIRE body?! Why by making a list, of course.
Here’s everything IF:Las Vegans need to know about attending the IF:Gathering at Advance Church tomorrow (sqeal!) and Saturday, beginning with the official schedule…
What to Bring
Yourself. Ditch the distractions. Bury your phone. Dress comfy. Bring a blankie, pillow & slippers if that’s your jam.
A Bible. The IF:Gathering leaders will be showing the ESV version on screen, but you will want your own favorite version handy. If you don’t have a Bible, we’ll hook you up with one because we are cool like that.
Something to write on. Think journal, moleskin, notebook, actual paper. Don’t think tablet or laptop. Power outlets are hard to come by at Advance because our building is sketchy charming like that.
Snack and drink holder. Let’s avoid the “is this mine?” song and dance by bringing your favorite mug or water bottle. We’ll have coffee, water, and lemonade to fill ‘em! We’ll also have some candy, nuts, and fruit available to snack on, but you are welcome to bring your own morsels of goodness to share because you are sweet like that.
Brown bag lunch for Saturday. Lots of different preferences means it’s best to just pack your own!
Things to Keep In Mind
There will be mistakes. Because this gathering is dependent on technology (we will be watching the feed approximately 30 minutes behind Austin on Friday and two hours delayed on Saturday), there could be hiccups. Becky, Leah, “other” Kristen and I are simply your hosts based on the information from the leaders in Austin, TX. Please do not expect perfection, but instead embrace any hiccups as opportunities to patiently bond with us.
This gathering builds momentum from start to finish. Each session and meal break offer opportunities to participate, and some of the best discussions happen over meals. If you need to pop in and out, plan those entrances and exits at natural breaks as much as possible (though of course we would rather have you there than waiting for the “right” time).
Dinner on Friday will be at Tivoli Village. We will carpool over there, and you can choose which restaurant/cafe suits your budget best.
Registration on IF:Gathering’s site is optional, but this event has the dream of future collective efforts. You may want to officially register to receive future communication and have an account to participate.
And, finally, remember this…
“Friends–it has happened—we are coming together. I see a generation rising. We have stepped up for God’s glory and the good of others and you have too. And I believe in full faith that He will move among us in new ways. Ways that expand our faith and courage even more. Keep praying. God is real and we can’t wait to see what He will do through his children together–wild and full of faith.”
{Jennie Allen}
P.S. Go, Team USA!