The first day’s theme is “Thirsty for Justice”. Building upon that theme,  and recognizing that St. Louis was the site of the first World’s Fair in North America in 1904, we will hold a “New World Mission Celebration.” There will be old-time games for people to play, musical entertainment, dessert and a cash bar available. But the centerpiece will be interactive mission and service opportunities. These interactive opportunities will be shared by local churches and agencies from the St. Louis area, as well as denominational mission and service agencies. The focus will be on how educators can help congregations get involved in promoting and expanding justice and compassion in their communities and around the world.

This celebration will take place on Wednesday evening, January 24th, from 7:30 – 9:30 PM following the regional dinners. It will be held in the space called “Midway East” which is the eastern end of what was once the Union Station train terminal. Today, it also faces the Union Station Aquarium, and we will open the windows to view both the otter and shark tanks. There will be a jazz ensemble and barbershop quartet to provide musical entertainment. It will be a wonderful experience!