Building Faith and Friendships at JOY Camp
JOY Camp 2026 brought together 61 campers and 27 volunteer counselors for a week of faith, friendship, and outdoor fun at Camp Reynoldswood in Dixon, Ill., June 21-27. Centered on the…
Location: United Methodist Church of Libertyville, 429 Brainerd Ave.
Sat. Feb. 7
Leading Your Church in Changing Times
Sat. Feb. 7
8 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
United Methodist Church of Libertyville, 429 Brainerd Ave.
Cost: $15 each
Scholarships available. Please inquire with the organizers.
Why attend: Now more than ever, local church leaders must adapt how they do ministry. Level up how you serve your congregation by joining fellow local lay leaders, church officers, ministry leaders, clergy and more for a half day of shared learning, insightful inspiration and meaningful connection.
What’s new: Our event is conference-style – we’ll all be together throughout the event (no breakout groups).
What attendees will learn: Hear from experts and leaders on topics designed to encourage church leaders as they discern how to adapt their ministries.
Schedule:
- 8 a.m. Registration & Light Breakfast Fellowship
- 9 a.m. Worship Service
- 9:30 a.m. Keynote: Fireside Chat with DS Victor Melad, Jr.
- 10 a.m. Community Plenary Sessions
- Supporting the Well-Being of Your Pastor
Kelly Wittich, Director of Health and Well-Being, Wespath and Jodi Benacka, Manager, Health and Well-Being, Wespath - Artificial Intelligence: What Local Church Leaders Should Ask
Joash Mencias, Shepherding Team, Lake North District - Panel: Insights for Churches Seeking to Adapt & Innovate
Rev. Christian Coon, Director of Congregational Development, Northern Illinois Conference
Rebekah Coffman, Executive Director, Church Properties Reimagined
rev. dr. abby mohaupt, Director, Garrett Collective, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
Rev. Clayton Edwards, Deerfield Campus Pastor, Kingswood UMC
- Supporting the Well-Being of Your Pastor
Questions? Joash Mencias, LN DST