Youth Ministry

“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God…”

— 2 Timothy 1:6 (ESV)

IGNITE

All Youth | Grades 5–12

IGNITE is the foundation of our youth ministry, bringing all 5th–12th grade students together in fellowship, worship, and fun. These gatherings build community across age groups while keeping Christ at the center.

Students are encouraged to engage God’s Word, grow in their Footprints of Faith, and discover what it means to live as baptized children of God in everyday life.

When We Meet

  • 2nd Sunday of each month

  • Additional outings and events throughout the year

IGNITE – BLAZE

High School Youth | Grades 8–12

IGNITE – Blaze invites students into a deeper walk of faith and leadership. Youth grow not only in knowledge of Scripture but also in confidence to live out their faith in their current vocations—as students, friends, teammates, siblings, and leaders.

Blaze youth learn to lead devotions and Bible studies, mentor younger students, and reflect on how God is at work in their lives right now.

When We Meet

  • 1st Sunday of each month | 5:00–7:00 PM We meet on and off site, so please check the calendar and bulletin each month.

  • Wednesdays | 6:00–7:30 PM Midweek Study

    • Concludes with Communion in the Chapel alongside those attending Wednesday services

IGNITE – SPARK

Middle School Youth | Grades 5–8

IGNITE – Spark focuses on building a strong foundation in the baptismal faith, guiding students as they prepare for Confirmation. Eighth graders may participate in Spark or Blaze, depending on readiness, allowing for intentional and supportive transitions.

Spark youth grow in their understanding of Scripture, the Catechism, and what it means to live as forgiven and redeemed children of God.

When We Meet

  • 4th Sunday of each month | 5:00–7:00 PM (Dinner provided)

  • Tuesdays | 6:00–7:30 PM Midweek Study

IGNITE – GO

Serving & Mission Ministry | 5th - 12th Grade

IGNITE – Go is the service and mission arm of youth ministry at Messiah. Youth live out their faith by serving the church, the community, and the world.

Students participate in hands-on service opportunities throughout the year, including supporting Messiah’s Vacation Bible School, local outreach, and mission experiences.

In 2025, Messiah launched a Staycation Mission Trip, allowing all youth to serve together within the church and local community.

Mission Opportunities

  • Summer mission trips each year

  • Separate mission experiences for Spark and Blaze youth

  • Ongoing service projects throughout the year

Confirmation and Discipleship Camp

Confirmation: 5th - 7th Grade | Discipleship: Camp Confirmed Youth

Confirmation at Messiah

At Messiah, we approach Confirmation with intention and care, centering our students in regular time in God’s Word. Rather than separating Confirmation from ongoing faith formation, we ask our youth to participate in Sunday morning Bible class.

  • Confirmation is completed at the end of 7th grade

  • Two years of Sunday morning classes (6th & 7th grade)

  • Taught by Pastor Detrie

Confirmation Camp

Confirmation Camp typically takes place the week of Memorial Day and is a key milestone in a student’s faith formation. Students who have just completed 5th, 6th, or 7th grade travel to Lake Lavon Camp & Conference Center for four days focused on learning, worship, and community.  Alongside our Pastors and Youth Director, our senior high youth join us as servant leaders—mentoring younger students, assisting with camp life, and modeling what it looks like to live out their faith.

During camp, the teaching team walks students through the Six Chief Parts of the Small Catechism in a classroom setting spread across the days of camp. Alongside focused instruction, students experience a full schedule of fun, fellowship, worship, and shared meals, building strong relationships within their faith community.

Time and again, families tell us that Confirmation Camp becomes one of the most meaningful spiritual and relational experiences of their youth’s faith journey—memories that continue to shape their walk with Christ long after camp ends.

Discipleship Camp

For youth who have been previously confirmed, Messiah offers Discipleship Camp, which runs concurrently with Confirmation Camp.

Discipleship Camp provides intentional growth in Scripture, leadership, and service while allowing students to model faithful living for younger campers. After completing two years of Discipleship Camp, students are invited to apply to serve as Junior Counselors.

Junior Counselors

Junior Counselors serve alongside the teaching team during Confirmation Camp, walking with a small group of campers to help them navigate:

  • Daily classes

  • Camp schedules

  • Community life and fellowship

This role allows Blaze youth to live out their faith through service, leadership, and mentorship.