NCI Youth Councils 2025
A spring highlight for many kids in and around Chicago is the annual Youth Councils weekend at Wonderland Camp. It’s always a fun weekend for Salvation Army youth from across the North and Central Illinois Division. The days are filled with great speakers, worship, and activities while creating wonderful memories in Wisconsin.
Some of the activities included glow-in-the-dark volleyball, talent night, a Fortnite competition, and arts and crafts. Nearly 200 kids across the division gathered in unity under the theme of having God ‘In Every Thing.’
“We love youth councils,” said Major Brianne Bowers, Divisional Candidate and Youth Secretary. “God always shows up, and lives are changed.”
Attendees also had the chance to spend time with Divisional Leaders, Lt. Colonels Jonathan and Barbara Rich.
“Youth Councils in the NCI division looks like a taste of Heaven on earth, as those in the same age group from diverse backgrounds racially and socio-economically encounter God in life-transforming ways and learn from each other,” Lt. Colonel Barbara Rich said. “No matter how old I am, Youth Councils will always be one of my favorite weekends of the year!!”
Youth Councils are a highly effective missional strategy that God consistently uses as a means of grace for The Salvation Army. From inspiring music from the E37 Worship Band to thought-provoking sermons by guest Pastor Reggie Hill, the energy was contagious.
Pastor Hill also discussed shutting the door to outside voices and influences that bring you down. He reminded Youth Council attendees that there will always be negative people, situations, and influences in our lives, but God gives us the power and choice to shut the door on things that do not build us up in Him.
“We don’t do Youth Councils just because it’s tradition, but are hoping to foster another sacred interruption,” said Justin Posey, NCI Youth Discipleship Ministries Director. “Youth Councils offer a space where the noise quiets just enough for them to hear the whisper of God. Maybe the cell service is bad, but the connection to God and one another is strong. This weekend isn’t about a performance or a program; it’s about presence. Our first hope is that every delegate would come face to face with the living God.
“But we also believe Jesus shows up in community. Youth Councils gives space for friendships to form and deepen, for laughter around the table, shared worship, and late-night conversations that somehow stay with you. In a world where young people often feel fragmented, lonely, or overwhelmed, this weekend becomes a space of belonging. It’s a reminder that faith isn’t just something we carry alone—it’s something we live out together.”
The Salvation Army is incredibly proud of the hundreds who committed to deepening their faith journeys at Youth Councils 2025.
NCI Leadership’s prayer and purpose statement for the weekend was simply this: “So that youth will encounter Jesus and make new friends.”