Our youth ministry is called “I.P.O.D.” and stands for “inspiration, power, obedience, and dedication.” At Faith, our youth ministry is not a “program,” per se, but rather a clear, structured way to fulfill the Great Commission (cf. Matt 28:19-20). Here is the basic goal and structure of our youth ministry:
(1) Meeting Schedule: The youth group meets every Sunday night at 5pm during our Family Bible Training. Our classes are divided by age: Nursery (0-4), Beginners (5-6), Primary (7-9), Jr. High (10-12), and Sr. High (13+).
(2) Curriculum: At Faith, we are currently making a transition in our curricula. We are now using Children’s Desiring God for all of our age groups except Sr. High (which uses material from Desiring God). We believe that it is our responsibility to make sure our children are learning (1) biblical truth (2) in a consistent manner (3) towards a goal. The material chosen for each age group builds upon former lessons. Teachers keep track of every child’s Biblical literacy and craft lessons to make sure that all children are “up to speed” before leaving their class. No child left behind!
(3) Activities: As mentioned, each class meets regularly on Sunday nights at 5pm. But, each age group also schedules activities throughout the year. Each month, our youth classes schedule small, age appropriate events such as ice cream parties, volleyball picnics, etc. But, what would a youth group be without the one “major event?” So, each class schedules a larger outing for sometime within the year such as a camping retreat, Cedar Point, etc. On top of this, VBS is held every summer. If you are a parent and want to get your kids involved, then see your child’s teacher for the activity schedule when you visit. Don’t worry, we’ll point you in the right direction.
(4) iPraise Store: Our children are rewarded throughout the year for (1) memorizing weekly Bible verses, (2) participating in Church functions, (3) and getting involved in community outreach. We call these rewards “ibucks.” Children can redeem them for prizes in our soon to be launched iPraise store. More info TBA! Look for a launch sometime in early summer 2012! But, for now, kids can still earn age appropriate prizes.
If you have any questions regarding our youth ministry, email Pastor Matthew at rickettm@gmail.com.
