Youth Ministry

Philosophy of Youth Ministry

Our youth ministry exists, first and foremost, to teach young people truth from the Word of God, relating it to their lives as they see, hear and experience it. Youth meetings and events provide time away from the pressures of the world to fellowship, encourage and strengthen one another. In addition to creating an atmosphere where believing youth can grow and mature in the Lord, we desire to provide a positive place to bring and witness to unbelievers.

In no way should this ministry to take the place or responsibility of the parents to raise their children in the Lord. Rather, it will support parents as they seek to instill character and conviction in the lives of their children. This ministry pledges to teach, recognize and honor the parents' authority and role in the lives of their children. It is a tool that parents may choose to use to help guide and direct their child's life toward loving and serving God.

The youth ministry not only serves the youth, but provides an avenue for parents to learn about and discuss issues relating to children and teenagers. This is very beneficial to parents of children in grade school as there is much to be learned from parents who are currently raising, or have already raised teenagers. It is better to foresee the issues that may arise in children's lives and equip them when they are young to make wise decisions.

Goals for Each Student

To encourage the youth to develop the following traits and to lay the foundation for spiritual growth.

1. A heart for God (1 Samuel 13:14; 2 Chronicles 16:9), becoming committed to:
   1. Worship - John 4:24
   2. The Word of God - Psalm 119:11; 1 Peter 2:2; Colossians 3:16
   3. Prayer - 1 Thessalonians 5:17
2. A heart for God's people (Galatians 6:10), becoming committed to:
   1. Right relationships - Romans 12:18
   2. Encouragement of others - 2 Timothy 3:16
   3. Servant's lifestyle - 1 Timothy 1:12
3. A heart for the lost (John 20:31), becoming committed to:
   1. Lifestyle evangelism - John 17:18
   2. Discipling new believers - Colossians 1:28
   3. World missions - Acts 1:8