Grace Students
A place to gather
Grace Students is the name of our awesome middle and high school youth ministry (6th – 12th grade).
Our programming this year, and moving forward, is based on the ministry of Jesus. First, He spent quality time with His disciples and others. Building the relationship was of utmost importance. Second, He always impacted the community around Him, right where He was. Third, He drew large crowds and ministered to the needs of the people with love and truth.
We are drawing from His example and created a program for your students that flows right from scripture. Every month (with some exceptions) we will be following this structure:
New Families and Returning Families:
Make sure to register your students so you don’t miss out on any upcoming gatherings, events, trips, or adventures we are planning for the summer.
Grace Students Supports:
Grace Students Winter Retreat:
Winter retreat 2023 is back, and it is going to be the best one yet. We are back at Joy El Camp in Green Castle, Pa, with competitions, skit night, zip line, go carts hangout, great food and fun.
Not only will you have the chance to unwind and have fun, but you’ll also have the opportunity to learn and grow your faith. This year, we are going to ask your teen, “what does it mean to be a real Christian,” in our message series titled FAKE. So don’t miss out!
Register using the link below and join us for an unforgettable weekend!
Here is what you need to know:
- The “Summer Bridge” program is for current 5th and 6th graders (rising 6th & 7th graders for fall 2021). We will be gathering together at the 9:30 a.m. in-person service at GFC for fun, fellowship, and time in God’s Word.
- Your first step, whether you are a new or returning family, is to complete the following Family Registration Form to ensure that Grace Students has your most updated contact information and the age, grade, and any medical needs for your student. This form only needs to be completed once.
- Once the form is filled out, you will receive the link to register your 6th grader for in-person service in the confirmation message. Spaces are limited, so please register promptly. You can bookmark this link to register your 6th grader week to week for in-person service. Registration opens weekly on Wednesdays at noon.
Classroom grade promotion on September 12:
As your students have wrapped up their final weeks of school and are anticipating the transition to their next grade in fall, we wanted to let you know that we will promote all students to their next grade classroom on September 12 (more information to follow). Until then, we will continue to use your student’s current (2020-21 academic year) grade. Do not hesitate to let us know about any special circumstances related to your child’s grade by emailing students@gfc.org.
Current Grace Students COVID Guidelines for classrooms:
- Masks are required to be worn by all 6th grade students.
- Our classroom capacity limits are set using the CDC’s guidelines for kids in Middle School.
- Hand sanitizer is available throughout our classrooms and hallway.
- Students will have access to individual supply bags for classroom activities as needed.
FAQ's
- The Large Group Program focuses on creating an experience where students can actively participate in worship through fellowship, music, and biblical teaching. All of our elements are designed to help students develop a deeper relationship with Jesus, leaders, and peers.
- Our Small Groups are called D-Teams. The “D” stands for “discipleship”. Each small group consists of 8-10 same gendered students and is led by an adult leader who cares deeply about inspiring a life worth pursuing in their students. Students discuss the teaching, develop practical application, and practice faith building habits such as prayer, encouragement, and serving.
- Retreats and Serving Opportunities are scheduled regularly throughout the year. These events help to build strong bonds within D-Teams and encourage students to own their faith in dynamic ways.
We highly encourage students to attend main service with their parents/families. An alternative is to encourage your child to serve during the morning services in Grace Kids, the Buddy Ministry, or the Guest Services team.
The best way for your child to get connected is to contact Christine Seese at cseese@gfc.org. Christine and the Grace Students Connections Team will assist with registration and help to connect your child with intentional peers and a well-seasoned leader upon arrival.
Our desire is that our ministry is fully accessible for every child no matter the unique needs or challenges. We will work to accommodate any student who has been affected by a disability. If you would like to connect with us about your child, please contact Christine at cseese@gfc.org
