Hi Parents,
Here’s a quick look at what’s been happening in student ministry and some important things coming up this month.
A Quick Look Back at March
Just over a month ago we wrapped up our META Retreat, and we’re still thankful for the way God used that weekend to unify our students and deepen relationships across the group.
We also finished the month with Small Group Night, where each leader designed a night specifically for their students:
MS Boys: Outdoor hangout with snacks and games in the warm weather
HS Boys: Learned basic car repair skills while hanging out with pizza and cornhole
MS Girls: Painted canvas bags and spent time together getting creative
HS Girls: Made prayer boards to track prayer requests and see how God answers them
We also began a new teaching series walking through the book of James, focusing on what it looks like to live out our faith in everyday life.
Merriwood Serve Weekend (April 17–19)
One of the most meaningful opportunities this spring is our Serve Weekend at Merriwood (April 17–19).
This weekend gives students the chance to step up and participate in serving, not just watch from the sidelines. Students will help prepare the camp for summer ministry through hands-on projects like cleaning, organizing, and property work that directly supports the ministry Merriwood does all summer long.
It’s a chance for students to take ownership, serve others, and grow as leaders while also having a great time together. Merriwood always makes sure there’s plenty of fun mixed in as well, so it truly is a work-hard, play-hard weekend.
Spots are limited, so if your student is interested, we encourage signing up soon before space fills.
Looking Ahead:
Theme Night: World Cup April 29 @ 6:30 pm
Our theme night this month will be World Cup Night!
Students will be placed on teams representing countries from around the world and compete in a variety of games and challenges to crown the World Cup Champions of the Night.
Not a soccer fan? No problem — this night is all about games, competition, and community.
Events like this are an important part of youth ministry because they create space for friendships to grow and help students feel connected.
This is a great night for students to invite friends, especially those who may be visiting for the first time.
Graduation Sunday - May 17th
If your student is graduating this year, we would love to recognize them on Graduation Sunday.
We’ll be honoring active graduates who have been involved in our student ministry, celebrating their time here and praying for them as they step into their next season.
If your student is graduating and you’d like them to be included, please fill out the form below.
Summer Camp Registration is Open
July 27–31st
Registration is now open for Summer Camp at Whisper Mountain, and we’re excited to be heading back there again this year.
Whisper Mountain has become a favorite for our group because it combines great teaching, intentional small group time, and incredible outdoor activities that help students unplug from distractions and really engage with God and one another.
The setting in the mountains creates a unique environment where students can slow down, build deeper friendships, and focus on their faith in ways that are harder to do in the normal rhythm of life.
Camp is consistently one of the most impactful weeks of the year for our students.
Important: The price increases April 26th, so be sure to register before the early rate ends.
Realm App
Please use the link below to learn more about the Realm App, which makes registering your teen easier than ever!
Thank you for the way you support and encourage your students. It’s a joy to partner with you.
Your friend,
Ian Turner
Student Ministry Director