By Angela E. Pometto
Herald Staff Writer
(From the issue of 10/21/04)

A new young adult mixer cast off last Saturday on the Spirit of Washington II. While the Theology on Tap program still attracts large crowds, the cruise provided a nautical alternative for young adults who are anchored in their faith. With the Washington skyline in the distance, the boat ride offered glimpses of Reagan National Airport, as well as Old Town Alexandria.

Sponsored by the Family Life Office, the two-hour tour aimed at Christian fellowship got underway heading south on the Potomac River with one slight glitch. Two of the young adults were delayed due to a slow Metro. Juliette Glasow, assistant director of the Family Life Office, waited until the very last second to board the boat, and as it was beginning to drift away from the dock, the two missing young adults showed up at the gate.

Glasow could not accept that these two would miss out on the luncheon cruise and their non-refundable tickets. She ran through the boat to the ship’s captain who obligingly turned the boat around for the two tardy attendees.

At 12:10 p.m., fellow cruise-goers experienced dêja vu as the boat started away from the dock for a second time, but now with everyone aboard.

After the excitement of the first few minutes, the young adults settled in to enjoy a buffet meal and entertainment as they ventured south down the river. While the cruise began with drizzle, by the time dessert was finished, it was a beautiful sunny afternoon. The group mingled on the upper deck as the boat returned to the dock.

"This was a great opportunity for the young adults in the diocese to make new friends and experience Christian fellowship," Glasow said.

Along with the cruise, the Family Life Office sponsors one other social event each year. They regularly host Theology on Tap at local bars and once a year present STEIN, Serious Topics Explained for Inquiring Noggins.

All Christians are called to encourage each other — a difficult task for young adults in a transitional time before being rooted with family or community, Glasow said. Young adult ministry offers ways for this group to meet like-minded people to develop friendships rooted in faith. According the Glasow, the social events are only the first stepping stone that encourages young adults to set sail with the faith.