April 16, 2026

High school students don’t often get the chance to rest. Between school, sports, jobs, and the constant pull of their phones, life moves fast. That’s why 42 students from Galilee, Arcola UMC, and Crossroads UMC spent a weekend in Bethany Beach learning what it means to hear—and accept—Jesus’ invitation: “Come to me, and I will give you rest.”

From April 10–12, the group gathered at the Bethany Beach Center in Delaware. Galilee brought 11 participants (nine students and two adults), joining with our neighboring churches for a shared retreat built around the theme Rest in Jesus.

The retreat began Friday evening with a tangible act, a needed moment of release. Each student wrote down a burden they carry and placed it in a jar, setting it aside for the weekend in light of Matthew 11:28–30. It was a simple but meaningful way to step out of the usual hectic pace of teenage life and into a quieter space.

Throughout the weekend, students explored spiritual practices designed to help them rest in Christ. Large group sessions provided a shared foundation, while small groups created opportunity for conversation, reflection, and hands-on practice. Time was also spent talking about the idea of a “digital sabbath”—intentionally stepping away from constant social connectivity to make room for God’s presence.

Music helped shape the rhythm of the retreat, especially “Rest on Us” by Maverick City Music, which became a centering song throughout the weekend.

But it wasn’t all rest. We need rest even from rest, after all. On Saturday, students took part in a town-wide scavenger hunt, competing in small groups to complete challenges and document their adventures. One task required going fully into the ocean—something more students embraced than expected, despite the chilly April water. That evening, the group their experiences before heading out for pizza together.

The retreat closed early Sunday morning with a quiet gathering on the beach at sunrise—a fitting end to a weekend that invited students to slow down, reflect, and experience Christ’s rest in a real and personal way.

We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Arcola and Crossroads and for the ways our students engaged so fully, and so restfully, in the weekend.

Looking ahead, our next retreat will be the VAUMC Youth Retreat, November 6–8. This summer, we also look forward to SummerServe and Summer Venture—more opportunities for our students to grow in faith, friendship, and service.