Gary Youth

You have heard it said, “youth are the future.” At Gary Church in Wheaton, Illinois, we say, “youth are the now!" We believe our youth are called and empowered by God to make a difference in the world. We strive to support our youth, so that they are free to become disciples who share the love of Christ with their neighbors. 

At Gary Youth, you will:

  1. Have fun
  2. Be valued
  3. Explore the Christian faith
  4. Experience family
  5. Act through hands on compassion
  6. Keep growing
  7. Reach out

 

Sunday School

Middle School
10–11 a.m., Middle School Youth Room
Our middle school youth will be welcomed by John-Marc and Jane Bilezikian on Sunday mornings. Our youth will grow in their understanding about the Bible and explore it through storytelling, creative reflection and dialogue.

High School
10–11 a.m., High School Youth Room
Our high school youth are invited to join Pastor Dan Lee to discuss how the Sunday scripture passages connect to current world events, faith and everyday life. Come and grow with us!


Weekly Night Gathering (September through May)  

We play fun games, learn, have small group and pray together. Each month, we follow a connected theme. More details can be found in our church magazine, emails, Facebook or Instagram.

Middle School

Wednesday nights, 7–8:30 p.m.

High School

Sunday nights, 6–7:30 p.m.


Gary Youth Middle School Calendar


Gary Youth High School Calendar


Save the dates


Soft Serve Soft Start (MS & HS)

Wednesday, Sept. 3, 6-7:30 p.m.

 

First Youth Group

HS: Sunday, Sept. 7, 6-7:30 p.m.

MS: Wednesday, Sept. 10, 7-8:30 p.m.

 

Fall Retreat 2025: In Rhythm (MS & HS)

Friday, Sept. 26, 5 p.m. - Sunday, Sept. 28, 1 p.m.

 

Murder Mystery Party (HS)

Sunday, Oct. 19, 6-7:30 p.m.

 

Halloween Pizza Party (MS)

Wednesday, Oct. 22, 7-8:30 p.m.

 

Trunk or Treat (Gary Church)

Saturday, Oct. 25, 10-12 p.m.

Gary Kids & Gary Youth Family Bowling Night (MS & HS)

Sunday, Nov. 9, 4-6 p.m.

 

Gary Kids & Gary Youth Family Feed My Starving Children (MS & HS)

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 7:15-8:45 p.m.

 

Christmas Party

MS: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7-8:30 p.m.

HS: Sunday, Dec. 7, 6-7:30 p.m. at the Bagnall’s home

 

Lunar New Year Party

MS: Wednesday, Feb. 4, 7-8:30 p.m.

HS: Sunday, Feb. 8, 6-7:30 p.m.

 

Winter Chill Retreat (MS & HS)

Friday, Feb. 13 – Sunday, Feb. 15

 

Musical, Chili Cook-off & Auction Fundraiser (MS & HS)

Sunday, March 1, 4-7:30 p.m.

 

Korean BBQ at Pastor Dan’s House (HS)

Sunday, May 3, 6-7:30 p.m.

 

Enchanted Castle Arcade (MS)

Wednesday, May 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.  


More events and service opportunities

Save the date: Winter Chill 2026
Saturday, Feb. 14-Monday, Feb. 16, 2026
Enjoy worship, fellowship and fun at our annual winter retreat.


Acolytes wanted

If you’re a fourth, fifth, sixth or seventh grader, we’d love to have you serve as an acolyte in worship. To learn more about this meaningful position, contact Pastor Daniel Cochran or sign up here.


Gary Youth Band

Gary Youth love music and we have a band called 4:12! You are invited if you sing, play an instrument, or you want to learn a new instrument.  Let Pastor Dan Lee know if you want to join.

4:12 Youth Band: (7th-12th grade): Rehearsals Tuesdays, 6-6:45 p.m.


Let Us Know

We want to celebrate your gifts! If you have a concert, game, exhibit, ceremony, party, etc. you would like to tell us about, fill out a form here. We will do our best to attend to cheer you on!

Find us on Social Media


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Each year, parents and guardians are required to complete a form for their child/ren to participate in Gary Kids and Gary Youth activities. This includes Sunday School, mid-week gathering, and other events. Please click here to register your youth.