2009 Rally in the Valley 
Huge Success

The Lutheran Seniors Assembly held February 16 and 17, 2009, was a huge success with over 430 Senior Saints in attendance. The weather was sunny, the presenters outstanding, the music inspirational and the final worship with Bishop Steve Talmage preaching, sent all the “saints” home knowing they are blessed with God’s amazing grace.

The theme for 2009 And Grace Will Lead Me Home featured the Prodigal Son art collection given by Jerry Evenrud to Luther Seminary. Thirty three reproductions of the collection were on display and were used by Dr. David Tiede in his Bible Study based on the Luke 15 story. Walt Wangerin Jr. was present by video and his son Matthew was a featured speaker. They talked about their lives together, apart and together again. Milessa Maxwell-Doherty brought the Prodigal story and the grace it lift up to life. The offering at the closing worship of nearly $4,000 was given to The Fund for Leaders in Mission and Lutheran Campus Ministry of Arizona. 

Some comments in the Evaluations

“…inspiring, great fun, food, music and filled with the Holy Spirit.”

“My first time, I will be back next year.”

“Everyone should experience a gathering of this caliber at least once in his/her lifetime.”

“Rally in the Valley is something we look forward to every year for an informational respite.”

“Awesome experience – thank you, I am going home with a huge inner glow and sense of hope, peace and love.”

“The music was fantastic including the harp, organ, brass, flutes and heavenly voices.”