Staff Changes in the Northern Illinois Conference
A handful of staff members are voluntarily leaving their roles. As the conference bids them farewell, it is seeking applicants for the positions now available.
Posted: October 22 2025 at 08:35 PM
Author: by Rev. Daniel Lee, Director of Youth Ministries, Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton
A glimpse of the fun, fellowship, and faith shared during the Fall Retreat. Photo courtesy of Rev. Daniel Lee
Youth groups from six United Methodist churches joined for “In Rhythm,” a weekend retreat of worship, fellowship, and sabbath at Lutherdale Camp and Conference Center in Elkhorn, Wis., Sept. 26-28.
First UMC of Arlington Heights, Resurrection UMC, Good Samaritan UMC, Gary UMC in Wheaton, Woodridge UMC, and First UMC of Glen Ellyn sent youth to the gathering.
The young people explored how the Sabbath is an essential part of being in rhythm with Jesus. Uli Widmaier, the guest speaker from Congregation Etz Chaim in Lombard, taught that the Sabbath is a gift from God. It’s like a cake God makes for us that we should enjoy.
The youth also learned that Sabbath is engaging with God, and this can mean expressing our joys, sadness, and even anger towards God. Uli also taught that when we spend time with God, we are transformed and called to change the world through social justice. This retreat was an opportunity to not just learn about the Sabbath but to experience it through times of corporate worship, solitude, and fellowship.
Each worship started with ice breakers. The worship team led us in songs and Uli Widmaier shared his wisdom about Sabbath. After worship, youth met in small groups.
During free time, the youth tried the low-ropes course and played kickball, volleyball, and gaga ball.
All of this helped build new relationships and strengthened bonds in Christ’s love.
