by Nelson Hall, Pastor, Youth and Young Adults at Grace Church Seattle
From January 17–19, 2026, middle school students from three C4SO churches—Church of the Vine in Newberg, OR, All Souls Seattle, and Grace Church Seattle—gathered for the first-ever Pacific Northwest regional youth retreat. Our group shared meals, played a variety of games (including archery tag), and worshiped together throughout the weekend.
Together, we explored the Christian life as a race—one that requires stamina, perseverance, discipline, and, perhaps most importantly, support along the way. Each leader wove elements of their personal testimony into the talks, showing that following Jesus takes shape in faithful yet unique ways in every person’s life.
Students were encouraged to see faith not as something instant or effortless, but as a lifelong journey of trust and endurance. Just as importantly, they were reminded that they are not meant to run alone. Through worship, shared experiences, and meaningful conversations, students saw that following Christ always involves the support of a community walking alongside them.
One of the great blessings of the retreat was experiencing it alongside other C4SO churches. Gathering with students and leaders from across our deanery gave our middle schoolers a broader sense of the body of Christ and reminded them that faith is not something we live out in isolation.
Students formed new friendships, worshiped with a larger community, and were encouraged by seeing other peers pursuing Jesus as well. Partnering together also allowed for shared leadership, diverse testimonies, and a fuller picture of how God is at work across different congregations in our region.
Learn more about C4SO’s NextGen Ministry. If you’re interested in a combined youth event in your region, the Rev. Ryder Mills, C4SO’s NextGen Coordinator, would love to hear from you.
Nelson Hall is Pastor, Youth and Young Adults at Grace Church Seattle. Contact Nelson.