A Focus on Our Youth
Have you noticed how much focus in our congregations there is on our youth in the coming months?
Let’s take a moment to review the commitment and love for our young people by looking at what will be occurring over the next few months.
The Blessing of the Little Children – November 8
Following Christ’s example, the Church has set an annual Blessing of the Little Children ceremony after the Feast.
Jesus deeply valued children and even corrected His disciples for trying to keep them away from Him:
“Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them.
But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’
And He laid His hands on them and departed from there.”
(Matthew 19:13–15, NKJV)
This ceremony reminds us of Christ’s love and the importance and value He places on our precious children. This year we have two children born in the past year that will be blessed.
Fundamental Beliefs Study – November 8
Our older teens, soon to be young adults, have a wonderful opportunity to deepen their understanding of God’s truth.
We’ve developed an engaging Fundamental Beliefs Study Program for ages 15–22 to review essential biblical doctrines and strengthen their personal relationship with God.
The first interactive session begins November 8, with ongoing studies scheduled for the first Sabbath of each month.
“For He established a testimony in Jacob,
And appointed a law in Israel,
Which He commanded our fathers,
That they should make them known to their children;
That the generation to come might know them...
That they may set their hope in God,
And not forget the works of God,
But keep His commandments.”
(Psalm 78:5–7, NKJV)
Teen Speech Club – November 1
To help our youth grow in confidence and communication, we’re again organizing a Teen Speech Club on November 1.
Modeled in similar way as Men’s Spokesman Club, this program adds youth-friendly elements such as:
- Wordmaster – introducing and defining a new word for everyone to use;
- Humorist and Poet Laureate roles – sharing humor and creativity;
- Interactive speeches and responses – encouraging vocal variety, gestures, and visuals.
Each meeting begins with a potluck, offering both fellowship and fun. Six sessions are planned for this year.
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11, NKJV)
Kids Club – November 1
For our younger children and pre-teens, Kids Club meets every other first Sabbath of the month at the Faheys’ home. Each gathering includes a short, memorable Bible-based lesson followed by playtime and fellowship. It’s a wonderful opportunity for parents to connect, share a meal, and enjoy meaningful time together.
“Come, you children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.”
(Psalm 34:11, NKJV)
Other Youth Activities
Many of our children also enjoy Bible Journaling, which will soon expand to Northwest Indiana in December. Plans are also underway to offer youth lessons after church for NWI—stay tuned for details. We also appreciate the teens who serve by playing hymns, participating in hymn ensembles, and choirs.
We are richly blessed with parents and members who are dedicated to raising their children in God’s way. Let’s continue to pray for our families—that both parents and children develop hearts that trust, love, and obey God.
We also thank all who serve in helping in our children and teen programs.
May God bless our efforts to nurture the next generation of His people.
I hope each of you has a restful Sabbath.