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


Sunday, Aug. 3, tee times begin at 1 p.m., Klein Creek Golf Club
The 28th annual golf outing to support the programs of Gary Church’s youth has provided an estimated $3,000 each year. We plan to continue that tradition again with the scramble format. You do not have to excel at golf to participate. You will have three other golfers on your team to share the fun. Call the Church Office with the names of those in your foursome or let them know you would like to play but need playing partners. If you cannot play you are welcome to contribute by joining our loyal team of hole sponsors. Sign up here.



Summer events

Sign up for events here.

Middle School


Archery at Blackwell

Wednesday, July 24, 1-2:30 p.m., Blackwell Forest Preserve

A park ranger will teach middle schoolers the basics of archery, including range safety, techniques, and the parts of a bow and arrow. Then we will practice hitting targets through instruction and games. Cost is $10. Sign up by Tuesday, July 7.

 

Pajama and Switch Dance Party

Thursday, July 31, 7-8:30 p.m., Youth Rooms

Wear your pajamas to church and show off your dance skills on the Switch. You can win a dance trophy. No prior skills needed. Let us know you are coming by Monday, July 21.

 

High School

  

Six Flags Great America

Wednesday, July 23, 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m., meet at Gary Church

High schoolers are invited to spend the day together at Six Flags Greats America in Gurnee. RSVP by Tuesday, July 1 so that we can figure out transportation and individual cost.


A Day in Chicago

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., meet at Wheaton Metra train station

High schoolers will take the Metra train to Chicago, take the water taxi to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Chinatown for lunch. The cost will cover transportation only. Please bring additional money for lunch, dessert and souvenirs (recommended $30).  Meet at the Wheaton Metra station. Sign up by Monday, July 21.


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.