Youth Mission Chorale Witness: Nikki Gerber

[During June and July, 1998, the General Board of Global Ministries led a group of 21 students from United Methodist-related colleges and universities in singing global choral music in the Baltic States and Russia. The participants wrote statements commenting on their experiences. Following is one such statement.]

I have never felt a deep connection with youth my age. I have always been more of a listener than a sharer. . . . It was not until this trip that my eyes were opened to the fact that other people are there for me and deserve to know the "true" me. . . .Through interaction with others I questioned and examined myself. . . .

It truly amazes me how universal God is and the power of love He creates. God sent me on this trip for a purpose. I egotistically thought that He wanted me to help others but what I have found is that He sent me to truly find myself and share all of myself with people--not just what I feel but also what I guard. . . . Youth wearing festive hats.

To be able to practice being a Methodist freely and openly is a privilege. I look at these amazing churches that have survived through religious persecutions and I weep. I wept on numerous occasions throughout the trip and treasure every moment. Laughter has bellowed from deep within as well as a stifled giggle. This could only happen after I opened myself completely. I thank God for blessing me in so many ways--especially for sending me all the angels in the Youth Mission Chorale to open my eyes, my mind and my heart.