Retreats — The Journey

What to expect

A weekend unlike any other

Every Journey retreat follows the same format — one that's been refined over the years to create space for faith, community, and growth.

🎤

11 Powerful Talks

Each weekend features 11 talks delivered by a mix of high school students, adults, and clergy — honest, personal, and real.

👥

Small Group Time

After each talk, students gather in small groups to process, pray, and go deeper. This is often where the real conversations happen.

🎮

Activities & Games

Retreats aren't just serious. Expect hilarious group games, creative activities, and plenty of moments that'll make you laugh until it hurts.

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Real Moments, Real Connection

When we step away from the busyness of daily life and the pull of social media, something opens up. A Journey weekend is a space to be fully present — and discover the kind of connection that only happens when you're truly together.

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Great Food

Nobody grows on an empty stomach. We take care of meals so students can focus on being fully present throughout the weekend.

🙌

Worship Together

Music and worship are woven throughout the weekend — from large group sessions to quieter, more personal moments of prayer.

Sample Weekend

How the weekend flows

Every retreat follows a similar rhythm. Here's a glimpse at what a typical Journey weekend looks like.

Friday

4:00 PM Arrival, check-in, and welcome

4:30 PM Retreat start & opening session

6:15 PM Dinner

7:00 PM Evening talks

10:00 PM Social time

Saturday

8:00 AM Breakfast together

9:00 AM Devotional & morning sessions

12:00 PM Lunch & free time

2:00 PM Afternoon talks & activities

5:30 PM Dinner together

7:00 PM Evening session & worship

Note Exact times may vary by retreat. Every experience is unique!

FAQ

Common questions

Everything you're wondering about, answered.

The Journey is open to all high school students ages 14–19. You don't need to attend First Church of the Nazarene or any church at all. We welcome students from across Galesburg and surrounding communities, regardless of faith background.

Simply head to our Application page and fill out the form. Applications are typically open 6–8 weeks before each retreat. If spots are limited, we'll do our best to accommodate everyone who applies.

We want every student to be able to attend regardless of financial situation. Please reach out to us through our Contact page for current cost information — and if cost is a barrier, please let us know. We'll work something out.

The Journey retreats are held at Galesburg Nazarene, 1501 Webster St, Galesburg, IL. Specific location details will be shared with accepted participants.

A complete packing list will be sent to accepted participants. Generally: comfortable clothes for two days, sleepwear, toiletries, a notebook if you like to write, and an open heart. Leave the heavy stuff at home.

Absolutely. Some of the students who've been most transformed by a Journey weekend showed up skeptical. We don't pressure anyone. We simply share what we believe and let God do the rest. All questions are welcome — in fact, they're encouraged.

Retreat Weekends