Over 1,178 youth, leaders, volunteers, and guests gathered at the Rocky Mount Event Center to worship at Pilgrimage 2025.

On Friday night, the House Band opened the weekend with powerful worship that set the tone for everything to come. Julia Royall Johnson, our Friday night speaker, offered a heartfelt message around this year’s theme, “What’s Next?” She encouraged us to consider how God calls us forward and how we can faithfully step toward what God is unfolding in our lives.

Saturday morning began with the House Band leading us once again in joyful worship. Our  Conference Youth Council led us in Christian Calisthenics. Keynote speaker Mark Oestreicher (Marko) shared with honesty and humor about listening for God’s direction and trusting God’s timing.  

On Saturday afternoon, youth groups spread out across Rocky Mount for a variety of activities. 487 youth and youth leaders enjoyed Camp Fun Day with our NC Camp & Retreat Ministries, 50 people spent time at the Game Day and Arcade, and 466 people helped pack 1,179 hygiene and menstrual kits with MERCI. First UMC Rocky Mount prepared 120 hot dogs for the annual Hot Dog Lunch. These activities reminded us of how God works through community in big and small ways.

Saturday evening, we continued with our rainstorm and conference youth officers sharing ways for youth to stay involved in NC Conference Youth Ministries throughout the year. Marko spoke again, encouraging us with the reminder that when we ask, “What’s Next?,” God responds with hope and guidance.

Sunday morning opened with a banner processional representing churches in attendance. Rev. Ismael Ruiz-Millán closed our weekend by reminding us that whatever comes next, God walks with us. We shared in communion, led by Bishop Connie Mitchell Shelton and Rev. Ruiz-Millán, celebrating the grace and unity found at Christ’s table.

Thanks to your generosity, $4,301.82 was given toward the Youth Service Fund (YSF) during Pilgrimage 2025 to support youth-led ministries locally, nationally, and worldwide.

Throughout the weekend, the Holy Spirit moved in the worship, laughter, service, and community of NC Conference Youth at Pilgrimage 2025. We left Rocky Mount connected and ready for whatever God has in store next.

Article written by Abigail Eliot, Conference Youth Secretary