The 2026 Christmas Institute in July, a beloved Filipino-American United Methodist tradition, gathered 21 youth, 23 pastors and deaconesses, and 11 laypeople from the Northern Illinois Conference and Illinois Great Rivers Conference July 19-21 for worship, fellowship, learning, and leadership development at Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest, Illinois.

The institute was more than a camp—it was a transformational experience where youth encountered Christ, discovered their gifts, strengthened their leadership, and experienced the love of a caring Christian community.  Guided by the theme “Safe in God’s Arms, Together in God’s Heart,” the gathering provided a sacred space where young people experienced God’s love, strengthened their faith, discovered their gifts for ministry, and built lifelong friendships rooted in Christ. Every activity was intentionally designed to encourage spiritual growth, teamwork, self-discovery, and Christian leadership.

Worship through music, led by Pastor Edward Granadosin, officially opened the institute with energetic praise and worship. Through music, Scripture, and prayer, participants were invited to open their hearts to God and prepare spiritually for the days ahead.

The first shared meal allowed everyone to begin building relationships in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Participants introduced themselves through fun icebreakers, storytelling, and small-group conversations. Youth reflected on their identities, backgrounds, and faith journeys while learning about one another. Everyone gathered as one community for songs, games, announcements, and reflections. The “Big Circle” emphasized unity and belonging within the larger CI family.

Youth also gathered in small circles to pray for one another, asking God for guidance, protection, and open hearts throughout the experience.

On the second day, participants began with quiet devotional time, prayer, journaling, and appreciation of God’s creation around Camp Sullivan. They created prayer jars containing written prayers and encouraging messages to remind them of God’s faithfulness.

After breakfast, the participants used scripture, discussion, and personal reflection to explore God’s promise of protection, learning to trust God during life’s challenges and uncertainties.

Teams participated in a series of interactive challenges, Bible-based games, problem-solving activities, and teamwork exercises. Activities such as the Trust Walk, an experiential activity that encourages reflections about trusting God, helped build trust, communication, and cooperation among participants while reinforcing Christian values.

Participants reflected honestly about their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Through compassionate listening and sharing, youth encouraged one another and discovered the importance of vulnerability within Christian community.

An activity formerly known as the prayer chain, led by Prof. Rhodalyne Q. Gallo-Crail of Northern Illinois University, gathered participants into a meaningful communal experience of prayer, connection, and reflection.

Creative presentations, music, games, and group reflections celebrated the participants’ gifts and talents while strengthening community spirit. Youth also participated in recreational activities and team-building exercises that deepened friendships across conferences and age groups.

The group elected youth leaders from NIC and IGRC, empowering young people to take active leadership roles within their respective conferences.

The final day began with personal prayer, reflection, and gratitude. Participants revisited their spiritual practices and offered prayers of thanksgiving before returning home.

The last Bible study reminded participants that God remains their refuge in every season of life. Youth reflected on how they could continue living faithfully beyond the CI experience.

The closing worship circle, led by District Superintendent Rev. Victor O. Melad Jr., inspired participants to continue their journey of discipleship. During the altar call, all youth delegates and some adults responded positively, offering themselves to God’s call to serve with renewed commitment and faith.

Participants shared a meaningful exchange of love letters among youth and adults, writing encouraging notes, prayers, and affirmations to one another. These heartfelt messages celebrated friendships formed and reminded each participant that they are loved by God and their CI family.

The gathering concluded with a final meal, heartfelt goodbyes, group photos, and promises to remain connected through prayer and future Christmas Institute events.

As they returned to their churches across the Northern Illinois, Illinois Great Rivers, and Iowa Conferences, they carried with them renewed faith, lasting friendships, and a deeper commitment to serve Jesus Christ as the next generation of Filipino-American United Methodist leaders.