"Houston, we have a problem."

On Wednesday, December 29th college students from all walks of life, different denominations, and diverse theological backgrounds gathered for the Joshua Generation Conference in Houston, Texas.

"'Houston, do we have a problem?" Gathering students from the Presbyterian Church USA, the United Church of Christ, and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), not to mention a few other denominations mixed in seemed to be challenging from the onset. In a church that is quickly losing the voice of young adults and college students, while cutting staff positions that support these ministries - what problems would this conference face, what problems would be challenged and finally what would happen after it was all done?

As students, each day we gathered to explore issues facing the church and our own generation. Not only did the hallways of the convention echo with the sounds of theological and political discussions, they echoed with the sounds of laughter and joy as each student began tearing down the barriers that prohibit ecumenical dialogue and meaningful conversation. The people of Houston witnessed how a small group of college students can make a difference through folding clothes at a distribution center, sorting medical supplies at relief stations, and tearing down a church building that was no longer safe for congregation members. Students heard the stories of people that struggle each day with the economic and social barriers restricting them from financial and family stability. The convention center and the Houston community heard echoes of justice, love, and compassion as students explored what it meant to be church beyond the physical walls of a church building.

Students experienced the Body of Christ beyond denominational structure, creeds, and doctrines. The Joshua Generation stood at a crossroads, looking back at what the church is and used to be and glimpsed into the possibilities that lie ahead. Through Bible study, small groups, and workshops, we explored what it means to be leaders of the church today (not tomorrow). Through worship we saw the church actualized and all of our hopes become true when the bread was broken and the cup shared.

The social gospel became a reality for the people of Houston as well as college students. We let ourselves become transformed — not only by reading Joshua 1:9 but letting Joshua read our lives and our actions. Through studying the historical context and realities of Joshua's generation, our generation began to see the hope and reality that lie ahead.

As we stood in the midst of a chaotic world and church, as the flooding waters of the tsunami consumed lives and the torrential effects of complacency and silence destroyed the mission of the church, the Joshua Generation was given hope through scripture and reassurance through community. Yet many wondered if this was a futile exercise that would end as we returned to our respective communities. That part of our journey and our generation is unwritten.

Houston, "Do we have a problem?" Yes, problems abound, but we have a generation that is here to follow and to lead, to love and to challenge the status quo. One group gathered and gained a vision of what could be-will the church listen, will the generation act?