August 2025
In the body of Christ, we are not called to serve alone. Lay leaders and church workers are Co-Workers for the Kingdom. Across our congregations, schools, and ministries, we see the blessings of walking together—encouraging one another, growing together, and caring for one another in service.
This spirit of mutual support is at the heart of the third annual Circuit Wellness Conference,
where church workers from participating circuits gathered for a time of worship, fellowship, and renewal. Hosted at Walcamp Outdoor Ministries, this All-Staff Conference has welcomed everyone who serves in a church role—pastors, DCEs, teachers, musicians, deaconesses, administrators, secretaries, and custodians alike. District staff also attend the days’ events to offer support and engage side-by-side with other attendees. All are part of the ministry team God uses to carry out His work.
The conference offers a refreshing environment for learning, encouragement, and connection. The program includes educational and professional development sessions alongside space for meaningful networking and conversation with peers in similar roles. This year’s keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Greg Walton, guided us in reflecting on Wellness in our individual callings, offering Gospel-centered insights and practical strategies to build partnerships which foster a healthier, more joyful ministry environment.
Sue Domeier was a part of the original team planning this event. At the time, she served as Principal at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Marengo. She now serves the LCMS Northern Illinois District as our National Lutheran School Accreditation Consultant/Commissioner. She shared, “Stronger Together – Co-Workers for the Kingdom of God is the perfect embodiment of these retreats. By combining staff, we are able to meet with people who are doing the same work in other congregations. Whether it is the church secretary, the bookkeeper, the pastor, principal, or the custodian, it is so good to meet and talk with your counterpart in another place. It is a very visible reminder that we are not islands unto ourselves, but a part of a bigger picture… I am a cog in the wheel of the Kingdom. We each have our part. A support system was put in place for our people, and w are better for it.”
Darlen Hillman is the Office Manager at Immanuel Lutheran Church in DeKalb. She has been involved since the very beginning as well. She believes some of the fruits seen from such an event include “… hearing about both strengths and weaknesses from others in the area. It allows us to mot only look at improvements for our own programming, but also to see areas where we are strong that sometimes we take for granted… We are more than our little school and church, and it is always good to remember that. It allows us to not feel isolated and to know that not only are there resources available, but like-minded individuals willing to lend and ear and support!”
Sue Green, the District Services Coordinator for the LCMS Northern Illinois District, enjoys her time at Walcamp each year for the Circuit Wellness Conference. “Excellent speakers provide opportunities to reflect upon our own personal wellness and how our personal wellness impacts the wellness of the staff with which we’re blessed to be places.”
She added, “These retreats absolutely dovetail with one of the District’s pillars – Wellness… We’re stronger together when we worship and learn together! This retreat embodies a way to strengthen Co-Workers for the Kingdom of God.”
Whether seeking renewal, connection, or simply time to rest in God’s creation with fellow servants, the Circuit Wellness Conference is a reminder that we are Stronger Together—Co-Workers in Christ’s Kingdom, equipped and encouraged for the work He places before us.
WELLNESS: Promoting and encouraging health and vitality in congregations, schools, ministries, professional workers, and lay-leaders.
You must be logged in to post a comment.