Today we begin our month-long series on reviving our relationships. Following Jesus is a community endeavor; it is a hard journey when we attempt it in isolation. Along with that, we share the Good News most effectively through the relationships where we are intentional. To celebrate this kick-off day, I am sharing some of the faces of valuable relationships that are being developed through our children and youth ministries.

Kids Connection: In Kids Connection students have been building relationships through games, crafts, discussing Bible stories, and even while doing some cooking! The beauty of the friendships that develop during this time is that they often last well into high school and beyond. Children develop friendships with each other and also develop trusting relationships with adults that follow Jesus. With ages from 18 months to 6th grade, children learn from those older than them, serve as a role model for those younger, and discover how the body of Christ is designed to be lived out in relationships.

Life in the Word: 5th and 6th grade students have a unique opportunity to learn the foundations of our faith through interacting with peers and their parents. Our homes are the epi-center of faith development and in this weekly gathering, parents and children grow in faith alongside of each other while strengthening their relationships with each other (and through lots of laughing!)

Higher Ground: 7th-12th grade students have a strong need for deep and authentic friendships. Following Jesus as a teenager is hard and those friendships with peers who follow Jesus is vital to leaning into adulthood with a Biblical worldview. These relationships are developed through deep discussions around scripture, prayer, games, service, and weekend retreats. With a multi-age model, students discover that our faith is not an age-based journey, but instead a beautiful mosaic of experiences and insights.  Along with peer relationships, students are able to develop relationships with trusted adults who can encourage and support them as they navigate the teen years.  Join me in praising God for the relationships that He is fostering and encouraging each week. We thank Him that he doesn’t reserve the work of the Church for those who are adults, but instead God works in us, from infancy, to learn to follow Him while in and through meaningful and authentic relationships.

Join me in praising God for the relationships that He is fostering and encouraging each week. We thank Him that he doesn’t reserve the work of the Church for those who are adults, but instead God works in us, from infancy, to learn to follow Him while in and through meaningful and authentic relationships.