Youth

Youth Ministry

OUR PURPOSE

The Youth Ministry at First Presbyterian Church assists the parents of seventh- through 12^th-graders in training and making disciples of their children. We want to see the youth glorify God with their lives, both now and forever. We seek to encourage a servant’s heart, making their faith real and their own, fostering community and friendship, and meeting them where they are. We desire for them to read, know, and love God’s word. We teach them to value prayer and a daily quiet time with the Lord. Our end goal is to produce mature Christians who know that their identity is in Christ and to honor Him with their lives.

WHAT WE VALUE

Seeking God first. Praying for wisdom and discernment. Serving others well. Exploring God’s love through prayer, worship, and fellowship. Fostering community with one another. Listening to each other. Respecting one another. Growing in faith, community, and service as we discover God’s purpose for our lives. Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

WEEKLY GATHERINGS

Sunday School, 10-10:45 a.m.

We meet upstairs for biblical teaching, fellowship, and a light breakfast. Our studies are Christ-centered and Gospel-based. Our studies change each semester.

Youth Group, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Our Wednesday night gathering is where we learn about different characters and books of the Bible. We also enjoy raffles and games. Dinner ($5) is provided by the church.

Coffee on Thursdays, 7-8 a.m.

We meet at F.E. Pops every Thursday morning for coffee and breakfast. We enjoy a simple time of fellowship before our day begins.

Small Groups, 5-7 p.m. (*twice a month*)

Each semester we choose a different study. We divide into smaller groups by age and gender to discuss the lessons. Dinner is provided.

SUMMER TRIPS

Fun In the Son, June 23-28, 2024

High school students will travel to St. Simon’s Island, Ga. Mornings include quiet times, and a large group session that includes games, worship, and a quest speaker. There is free time to relax and enjoy the beach. A variety of recreation activities and tournaments will be organized for each afternoon. The evening schedule will include dinner, a large group session, and family time.

Prayer Retreat, July 11-14, 2024

We will travel to Blowing Rock, N.C. Youth will learn to pray by themselves, in pairs, and in groups. It is a wonderful time together as we study God’s word by reading it, journaling it, and praying it. We also will enjoy time in downtown Blowing Rock, swimming, and visiting Boone, N.C.

The Great Escape, July 16-21, 2024

Middle school students will travel to Southwind, located near beautiful Long Lake at the edge of the 420,000 acre Ocala National Forest. In addition to its beauty, Southwind has plenty to offer. Activities include a water recreation area, paddle boards, canoes, high ropes, beach volleyball, basketball, disc golf, and much more. Their passion is the Gospel and their desire is to partner will make the time spent meaningful and memorable with great teaching, outstanding worship, small groups, and family time.

FALL, WINTER, AND SPRING TRIPS

Apple Picking Trip, September 20-22, 2024 (*possible dates*)

Every year we choose a new orchard to try. In 2024, we will visit Sky Top Orchard in Hendersonville, N.C. Our trip also will include quiet times, worship, and a hike!

Fall Retreat, November 1-3, 2024 (*possible dates*)

We will travel to Montreat, N.C. Cost will be $125. Youth will enjoy quiet times, spending time downtown Black Mountain, visit Asheville, N.C., and hike Lookout Mountain.

Ski Trip, February 6-9, 2025
in 2025, we will travel to Winterplace, West Virginia. You can choose to ski, snowboard, or tube.

Spring Getaway, March 14-16, 2025

Dreher Island State Park (Chapin). We will spend time in God’s word through quiet times, small groups, and worship. There will be games, canoes, time around the campfire, and more!