From Parables to Pond Parties: Celebrating a Summer of Youth Ministry

This summer was an incredible season of growth, fellowship, and fun for our youth ministry. Mondays, our Middle School Mondays program drew over 40 students for an exciting mix of games, Bible studies, and teachings on the parables. Guided by our dedicated team of summer interns, these evenings helped students not only grow in their understanding of God’s Word but also deepen friendships with our new sixth graders and returning students.

Our high school students also had meaningful opportunities to connect and grow throughout the summer. Wednesday mornings became a space for our high school girls to gather for study and encouragement, while Sunday evenings were devoted to high school guys working through the book of Joshua. These smaller group gatherings provided intentional discipleship and opportunities for students to wrestle with Scripture in real and practical ways.

One of the highlights of our summer was the second year of All City Youth. Even though construction issues meant we lost our neutral meeting site, the Body of Christ stepped up! Different communities hosted each month, and the result was nothing short of amazing. We averaged over 100 students at each gathering, representing more than six local churches, all coming together to worship as one family and to be challenged to live boldly for the Gospel.

We closed out the summer with our much-loved Pond Party, once again graciously hosted by the Yoder family. Nearly 200 students came out to celebrate, swim, and enjoy fellowship together. This event would not have been possible without the army of volunteers and families who stepped in to provide everything from food to lifeguarding. Their support made the evening both safe and unforgettable.

As we look ahead, we are excited to carry this momentum into the fall. God has been at work in powerful ways this summer, and we believe he is preparing even greater things for the months ahead. Thank you to everyone who prayed, served, and participated—our youth ministry is thriving because of your faithfulness!