“So then, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God” (Hebrews 4:9)

In our busy world, rest can feel like one more thing that there is no time for, but in In Hebrews 4, we are reminded that God intended rest as a gift for all people. How can we find space to receive it? That is focus of “Just Chill”, our youth retreat at HopeWood Pines.

2024 is The Year of Rest in Northwestern Ohio Synod. Adults throughout Northwestern Ohio are learning about active rest through reading, bible study, and prayer practices, but rest isn’t just for adults. Youth today keep busy schedules and need space to explore their own need for rest and rejuvenation. The theme of “Just Chill” will provide space to lean into practices of rest, during this formative period in their faith development. Our focus during this retreat will be to learn about active rest through play, explore spiritual practices, enjoy fellowship, and worship together. Youth will gather at HopeWood Pines for swimming, kayaking, low ropes, archery, climbing wall, hiking, ziplining, campfires and much more. Bishop Daniel and other Synod Staff will be around during the week to engage youth in tactile ways to engage in rest.

Programming is designed for youth who have are entering 6th grade in the fall of 2024 through those entering the 8th grade in fall of 2024. This retreat is designed to be low cost, simple, and relational so that churches, who may be busy planning for The Gathering in New Orleans this summer, can offer an experience for Middle School aged youth who are unable to attend The Gathering. HopeWood Pines is the perfect environment to play and notice the goodness of God that surrounds us.

We are offering this event to youth across the synod, to provide the opportunity for young people to meet in a relaxed setting for an abbreviated week. If you are new to camp or have a busy summer schedule, this is a perfect opportunity to explore camp with others. This will also allow youth leaders the time to network with other area congregations to imagine future collaboration.

With school schedules, extracurricular activities, sports, and family event, youth today need an opportunity to “Just Chill” and see the goodness of God all around them. We hope you will join us for this chance to experience the gift of rest.

Registration is now open and will close May 1, 2024.