'I've seen God reach into what appears to be hopeless situations', said Jim Schirmer, chairman of Lutheran Youth of Queensland (LYQ). 'We don't simply run fun events for young people. We create space. We create the space into which God brings hope into the lives of hurting young people.'
Jim was speaking at LYQ's inaugural fundraising dinner at St Peters Lutheran College, Indooroopilly, on 16 May. Around 180 supporters from a wide cross-section of the Queensland District attended the event, which raised over $22,000 in support of LYQ's ministry to young people.
Prominent Aboriginal lawyer and leader Noel Pearson was guest speaker. He said, 'I am consumed by questions of identity and particularly by identity as a Lutheran'. He read from his recently published book, 'Up from the Mission', in which he addresses the complexity of identity.
The dinner proved to be more than a highly successful fundraiser. Queensland District Executive Officer Trevor Ruthenberg, who compered the event, said, 'I congratulate LYQ for their vision and this gift to us as a district. Apart from raising awareness of and funds for LYQ's important ministries, these young people have brought together people from many areas of the Queensland district. As a church we need to celebrate the great things God accomplishes. This is a great example of doing that, and we should do more of it each year.'
LYQ Director Aaron Glover was overwhelmed by the generous support of people attending the dinner. 'It's great to see so many people excited about reaching out with the love of God to the young people of Queensland. LYQ creates space for young people to encounter the God who loves them and can transform their lives. We're deeply grateful to all our supporters who value the ministry we're involved in.'
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