UOK, our fall retreat for middle schoolers, was held at Round Lake Christian Camp, a familiar spot from our Wild Side events. We gathered with other area churches to create a high-energy, fun, and worship-filled weekend tailored to meet our students right where they are. The worship was lively, and the messages touched on the different personas we sometimes adopt – like being the “good girl” or the “popular one” – ultimately guiding students to recognize that true fulfillment comes from being who God calls us to be. This theme really resonated with our students as they navigate questions of identity and self-worth.
The camp was packed with activities like rock climbing, nine-square, and even a boat race where students built and raced their own makeshift boats. Watching them attempt the race was a blast – most of the boats sank, but it was all in good fun!
The mission of RUOK is tied to its name, which asks, “Are you okay?” We want to breathe God’s life into our students, sharing the gospel and engaging them in discipleship. Taking them out of their usual environments lets them focus on God and reflect. A highlight of the retreat was the 20-minute quiet time, where students sat in solitude under a breathtaking, star-filled sky. This reflective moment left many students in awe of God’s creation, finding personal connection and peace.
One of the standout memories this year was seeing the middle school boys’ group deeply engaged in discipleship. They listened, prayed, and were truly present in the discussions – a reminder that they’re not just hearing the gospel but growing in it.
Seeing students connect, reflect, and mature in their faith on retreats like this affirms why we do what we do.
Joseph Furno,
Student Ministries Pastor
