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The Spirit moved in an amazing way...and many were touched when 2,000 people gathered at the Sioux Falls Arena and Convention Center June 7-8 for the Together in Christ Ecumenical Assembly.

The event opened Friday evening with Ken Medema and Bishop Leontine T C Kelly. Within minutes, Medema had the audience dancing, hugging and laughing. Just as quickly, his poignant lyrics and beautiful melodies had the audience silent, some in tears. They will never forget the touching "Harvest" song that he offered in response to a woman's story of the gift of grace. Bishop Kelly was at once charming and challenging, asking us to look at ourselves and our actions in the light of God's call to care for our sisters and brothers.

Several hundred hearty souls got up early Saturday for the Prayer Breakfast and were treated to good food, good fellowship, and the inspired words of Dr. Joseph "Iron Eye" Dudley. Saturday continued with presentations by Coach Dan Gable, Dr. Martin Marty, and Dr. Wendy Wright. Even a fire alarm couldn't diminish the power of Dr. Marty and Dr. Wright's messages.

In addition to speakers, there were numerous and varied exhibits, and many hands on mission opportunities. Among the mission work was serving lunch at the Banquet and engaging in a letter writing campaign. The youth had their own set of activities which included mission work, lunch with singer and songwriter, Peder Eide, and a closing concert with Peder. This group, although small in number, instilled energy into whatever activity they were a part.

Two offerings were taken throughout the event. As a result, donations of over $2,000 each were made to the Flandreau Indian School Chaplaincy Program, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate Program), and Prison Ministry.

The event is over, but the Spirit lives on. Who knows what seeds were planted in the hearts of the attendees. Good things were done in the Sioux Falls community, challenging topics were raised for thought and discussion, and best of all, Christians came together, not to be the same, but to rejoice in the gift of the other. There were blessings, celebration, and renewal.

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