WELS Youth Rally — Bowling Green State University
July 14–17, 2026
What this gathering is about
The 2026 WELS Youth Rally will take place on the Bowling Green State University campus in Bowling Green, Ohio. Built around 2 Corinthians 5:18–20, the theme—“We are Christ’s ambassadors”—shapes worship, teaching, small-group conversation, and hands-on service. Expect spiritual formation, community-building, and practical opportunities to live out and represent your faith.
Where to get official details
All official information, registration forms, deadlines and fee schedules are posted at welsyouthrally.net. That site is the single source for the latest updates, so check it before you register or finalize travel plans.
Registration windows and fees
– Registration opens in the spring and runs March–May. Exact dates and any group or scholarship options are posted on the website.
– Early-bird rate: $450 for registrations completed on or before April 30.
– Standard rate: $475 for registrations submitted May 1–29.
Registering early secures the lower price and makes it easier for planners to confirm housing, meals, volunteers, and accessibility needs.
What to expect on campus
The rally will use multiple campus facilities for worship services, workshops and fellowship. The schedule mixes structured programming with free time and service projects so participants can grow spiritually while forming lasting friendships. Housing, meal plans, volunteer placements and waiver requirements are detailed during registration—review those carefully on welsyouthrally.net.
Sustainability and practical logistics
Organizers encourage practices that reduce waste and simplify logistics: shared transportation, reusable dishware, local food sourcing, and recycling or donating leftover supplies. These steps help the event run more smoothly, lower costs, and leave a smaller footprint—benefitting organizers, host communities and attendees alike.
Tips for group leaders and congregations
– Register early to secure group housing and volunteer positions. Early registration also helps with planning travel and service projects.
– Collect and prepare required documents: medical consent forms, emergency contact info, and any campus waivers.
– Bring a short-lined plan for pre-event meetings: use the “ambassador” theme to assign roles for small groups, service activities, and on-site logistics.
– Track volunteer hours and service outcomes to demonstrate value when you report back to your congregation.
Practical planning checklist for attendees
– Confirm registration and payment.
– Note housing assignments and roommate details when posted.
– Finalize travel plans; arrange shared rides or buses where possible.
– Prepare medical consent forms and a copy of important health information.
– Pack for worship, workshops and outdoor service work (comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Bible, notebook).
– Keep emergency contact and group leader information handy.
Operational guidance for organizers (brief)
– Lock in vendor contracts early and include sustainability or contingency clauses.
– Publish a clear sustainability statement and a short checklist for participating congregations.
– Provide accessible contact channels for questions on housing, volunteers and accommodations.
Follow-up and communications
Expect continued updates from the rally team on housing assignments, volunteer roles and the final schedule. Families and group leaders should keep contact details current and watch welsyouthrally.net for deadline reminders and last-minute announcements.
Why attend
Beyond a memorable few days of worship and fellowship, the rally aims to equip young people to return to their home congregations with practical tools for service, clearer spiritual formation, and relationships that endure. If your group is considering sending delegates, the combination of thoughtful programming and logistical preparation makes this a meaningful investment in youth ministry.