What does our weekly programming include?
Our weekly programming for middle school and high school has two elements:
- "Fuel" Bible Study uses music, video and a host of technology to make Bible study a rockin', edgy, life changing experience. It is designed to take students through the Bible in two years. "Fuel" is offered on Sunday mornings during both services.
- Sunday Night Youth Groups meet weekly on Sunday nights from 5-7:30pm. Every week there are: games, snacks, great worship music, a large group teaching time, and small group discussion time.
What are small groups?Small groups are a huge part of our Student Ministries! In small groups, genuine relationships happen, discussions about real life occur, and students are challenged by God's word to grow in their relationships with Him. Small groups are where students are known, cared for, and supported. Small groups are composed of students of similar grades (For example 6th -7th graders are together). We aim for no more than 10-12 students to a group and to do our best to make sure they are with their friends. Every small group will has at least one male and female adult leader. Small groups take place after our large teaching time at our Sunday night youth groups. As our student ministry grows larger it becomes even more important for students to be in a group that is smaller where they can have deeper relationships with a few students.
Who are volunteer Leaders and how do I know they are qualified to work with my student?Volunteer leaders are unpaid youth pastors who willingly give up their time, energy, and effort to work with students because they care. Each leader goes through a thorough process before joining our leadership team, including an extensive application, an interview, a background check, and basic training. Volunteer leaders are people of all ages and backgrounds. They love God first and love students second, and have decided to serve God by making a difference in the lives of students!
Could I Become a Volunteer Leader?We would love for you to apply to become a Volunteer Leader! A large portion of our leadership team is made up of parents. Filling out a Volunteer Leader Application is the first step to becoming a Leader. To get an application, please
email Mike Russell, Youth Pastor.
Can Parents Attend Our Programs?Parents are welcome to check out both of our weekly programs, but we do ask that parents only attend once. In Student Ministries, we always want to partner with parents to help their children grow into being Christ followers, but to ensure the safety of our students, we need to make sure that all adults working with students have completed our application process, including a background check
Will my child be unsupervised at weekly events or on trips?Absolutely not. This ministry does not just get a bunch of students together and then just "let 'em play." Every meeting, trip, or event has a schedule and purpose that guides us. Leaders are always present.
What trips or retreats do you offer?We offer mission trips locally and cross culturally. We also plan other trips and activities through out the year as a way of getting to know each other better. We have found that our trips and retreats tend to be a great way of building friendships within the group. Weather a student is shy or very outgoing nothing else compares to concentrated time away with a group of people rallying around a common purpose!
Does it cost money to be involved in this ministry?It doesn't cost any money to be involved in our weekly programs. Some events do cost money, like our trips and retreats. We offer several fundraisers each year to help students raise money for their summer trips as well as teaching them the fundamentals of raising support.
How do I find out what is coming up?There are several ways to find out the upcoming schedule. One way is to
email Mike and ask to be placed on our student ministries parent list by giving us your name and email information and address to receive information and updates to your email address, and any mailings. Another way is to call or email - we are always willing to help with any questions you might have.
What if I think of more (or better) questions?We would be glad to speak with you about any questions or concerns you may have. We want you to feel comfortable with your student being involved in this ministry. Please don't hesitate to
email Mike Russell, Youth Pastor or call him at 717-732-1882 ext.17