Let no one despise you for your youth,
but set the believers an example
in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.
1 Timothy 4:12
Note: As of the summer of 2008, Steve Hodson has stepped down as our Youth Leader. We thank him for his faithful service and look forward to what God has next for our youth. Check back here in coming weeks for updates.
Youth Group
(A.K.A. "Upper Room")
Welcome to the Youth Group Page. My name is Steve Hodson and I have been the youth leader here since the fall of 2002. When I think about the significance of this ministry, I remember the words of Hebrews 11:6 that says, "Without FAITH it is impossible to please God. For those who come to God must believe that He is and He rewards those who diligently seek Him." As I work with the young people of this church, my hope is that they will learn what it looks like to live by faith. I want them to seek God diligently so that their souls will be happy in Him. I want the kids of this youth group to see that by the grace of God they can live lives that are pleasing to Him and that it is worth any difficulty they encounter along the way.
Check out the church calendar for Sunday evenings that we will be meeting. This gathering is known as Upper Room for youth and usually meets from 6:00-8:30 p.m. in the lower level of the C. E. Center. Anyone who is senior high school age (grades 9-12) is welcome to join us. We would love to see you there!
If you decide to make a visit to our youth group, here is what you can expect to find going on at Upper Room:
FUN!
One of the first things we do each night that we get together is some sort of wild and crazy game. Often we play a version of Wiffle Ball or Ultimate Frisbee. When the weather is bad we do some sort of goofy game in the building.
MUSIC!
After the game, we sing. We have a full band and spend 20-25 minutes singing contemporary choruses and other worship songs. This is always a highlight of the evening for myself and for the students as well.
BIBLE STUDY!
This is the most important time of the evening. I spend 25-30 minutes teaching the youth from the Word of God. Usually the lessons are topical, and I try to connect the truths that we find in the Bible with their lives at home, at school, at work, and in their relationships. Scripture is relevant to all aspects of life for all ages and my goal is to help the students see that relevance and be changed.
FOOD!
We have faithful women of the church who prepare snacks for every youth group meeting. So far there has not been anything but delicious and not-so-nutritious treats for us. We all just hang out and eat and talk and eat and talk and eat and eat!
We want this ministry to be a place where you can come and enjoy being with friends as we learn how to follow Christ together. Come see how you can be a part of it!
Steve Hodson