Adolescence is a pivotal time in life, full of changes, uncertainties, and a quest for direction. The First United Methodist Student Ministry is dedicated to helping our young people navigate this stage through supportive relationships, faith-based guidance, and meaningful service. As they stand at the crossroads of life, overwhelmed by confusing choices, we can be the community that shows them the way.
At the heart of our mission is the commitment to offer each student unconditional love and acceptance, reflecting the grace of God. We strive to foster a space free of judgment, where every young person feels valued, understood, and cared for, no matter where they are in their spiritual journey.
We would love for you to join us as we seek to live out God’s love everywhere we go!
For questions, contact youth@fumcgt.org
Sunday Morning Gatherings
Sunday School is from 9:45-10:40 AM in the Student Ministry area, 2nd floor of the Atkin Learning Center. All students 5th grade and up are welcome. Join us as we check-in with one another, share snacks, and chat about this week’s message.
Weekly Youth Groups
Crossroads 56
Crossroads 56 is our Wednesday night ministry where students in 5th and 6th grade gather for games, a devotional, and dinner. Join us on Wednesdays from 6:00 – 7:30 PM on the 2nd floor of the ALC.
Crossroads 78
Crossroads 78 is our Sunday night ministry where students in 7th and 8th grade gather for games, a devotional, and dinner. Join us on Sundays from 5:00 – 6:30 PM on the 2nd floor of the ALC.
Crossroads 912
Crossroads 912 is our Sunday night ministry where students in 9th-12th grade gather for games, a devotional, and dinner. Join us on Sundays from 6 PM – 8 PM on the 2nd floor of the ALC.
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Volunteer with FUMC Students
Crossroads Adult Volunteers
We’re looking for dedicated adults to help with our Wednesday and Sunday night Crossroads groups by chaperoning and joining students for games, meals, and meaningful conversations. Whether you can serve weekly or just once in a while, we’d love to have you on the team! MinistrySafe Certification is required.
Sunday School Adult Volunteers
We’re looking for 1–2 adults each Sunday morning to help with Youth Sunday School and invest in the lives of our students. Whether you can serve every week or once a month, we’d love to have you! MinistrySafe Certification is required.
Student Ministry Core Values
Relationship Building
Building strong relationships within the youth group provides a sense of belonging and support. These friendships help teens feel understood, reducing feelings of isolation, especially during times of uncertainty. Our youth group relationships are built on the foundation of love and acceptance. We celebrate the diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and personalities within our group, ensuring that each student feels valued and loved for who they are.
Safe Space for Reflection
Our youth face countless questions and uncertainties. The youth group offers a safe and welcoming environment where they can express their doubts and explore their faith freely. We encourage reflection and open discussions that allow them to connect with others going through similar experiences.
In our group, each student is loved and accepted as they are. We emphasize that no question is too small or unworthy, and no one will be judged for their doubts or struggles. This openness allows students to explore their faith with honesty and authenticity.
Positive Mentorship
Teens are often drawn to the loudest voices around them. The youth group offers positive role models who provide guidance rooted in faith and wisdom. Through mentorship, we can help them discern the path God has set before them. Our mentors are dedicated to loving and guiding the youth without judgment. Each student’s journey is unique, and our role as mentors is to offer support through compassion, understanding, and grace—no matter what choices they face or struggles they encounter.
Engaging Scripture & Faith Practices
By grounding their decisions in scripture, teens can find clarity in the chaos. Psalm 16:11 reminds us that God will show us the way of life. In our youth group, we engage with the Bible to help young people find purpose, direction, and peace. We approach scripture with love and openness, encouraging students to ask tough questions and express their doubts without fear of judgment. We believe that God’s love is unconditional, and so too is the love and support we offer each other in our faith journey.
Service & Outreach
One of the best ways to guide our youth is through service. By focusing on helping others, they can find joy, purpose, and meaning beyond the distractions of daily life. Through service, they experience the joy of living in God’s presence. In serving others, we model God’s unconditional love. Whether we’re helping those in need or serving within our own community, we teach our youth that everyone is deserving of love and respect, regardless of their circumstances.
Together We Can Guide Our Youth
By offering a supportive environment grounded in unconditional love, free of judgment, and focused on building strong relationships, our First United Methodist Youth group helps young people find direction and purpose during this pivotal time. Families, mentors, and the church community can work together to show them the way—just as God promises in Psalm 16:11.