Six months ago, as the newly elected LYO Board began planning the 2026 LYO Assembly, they set a grand goal to grow the event by five congregations and 50 people. As they continued their planning—developing their theme, coming up with small group ideas, and brainstorming schedule changes—they imagined what it would be like to welcome new folks into their beloved event. They prayed for the lives that would be changed by this grand goal. Rex Jones, LYO secretary and board member (Calvary, Morganton), shares his reflections about the goal and the weekend.

When the pandemic hit the LYO program head-on, concerns were raised about whether it could ever recover. Those concerns are well behind us, as our 2026 LYO weekend hosted 5 new congregations (and over 50 more youth than last year), along with returners who have supported us throughout the journey. One of the main reasons we were able to achieve this post-pandemic high was due to LYO’s welcoming atmosphere. As you come to learn throughout the weekend, there are no congregations that are the same. We celebrate the diversity within the church and acknowledge the different backgrounds and cultures that join our program. Our arms are wide open to the ideal of coming as you are, as Jesus calls you, and as God made you. We continue this appreciation by establishing a retreat for all to enjoy. But LYO is more than just fun games and activities. It’s seeing God’s works in your life and others. Not just in your own congregation, but also through strangers from completely different backgrounds with whom you make connections.

As a first-time LYO leader, I was blown away by the number of people who attended, but I still worried that some youth felt they were not invested. But luckily, I didn’t have to worry for long. At LYO, opportunities arise in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s the projects you take part in with small groups, the variety of activities you do in your free time, or any way you want to make the most out of your weekend, we see you. We see your interests, we see the many different comfort zones, and we celebrate that diversity because that is the backbone of LYO. Connecting with God in different ways you never even considered. By welcoming all who walk through those doors, our program will only continue to grow and better achieve our goal.

The goal was met! Lives were changed! Thanks be to God!