FAMILY MINISTRY

Junior High School

Mark Chapman
Director of Student Ministry
(949) 837-4765, ext. 211
mchapman@genevapres.org

Geneva Youth Photo Gallery 1 | Geneva Youth Photo Gallery 2

January 2008 Parent and Youth Newsletter (.pdf, opens in new window)

Seventh and eighth graders are invited to join Geneva's Middle School "Shine" Group. As a part of Shine, your children will learn about God and develop lifelong friendships in a fun, nurturing and challenging environment. Read on to learn more about the programs available to middle school "Shine" students, both on Sundays and throughout the year.

Sunday Worship
Geneva's Middle and High Schoolers meet Sunday mornings at 10:30 AM in the youth room - complete with ping-pong table and old, beat-up couches - for a time of worship and Bible study. The two groups begin the morning together singing contemporary praise songs with guitar accompaniment, then separate for Bible study. Many of our youth also attend our 9:30 AM contemporary worship service which is held in Simpson Hall.

Core Groups
These small groups are at the center of Geneva's youth program. Two adult volunteers lead each group of approximately 6-12 students (divided according to grade and gender) in all activities, from discussion time during our midweek LOGOS program (see below) to fun days at the beach. Core Group Leaders receive training and nurturing from the Team Leaders and Pastors. Members of a Core Group bond together to become a church "family". These groups give students the opportunity to develop and nurture close friendships as well as provide a more intimate and safe environment for spiritual questions and discussion.

Music
Geneva has a tradition of nurturing highly skilled musicians and vocalists within the local church family. Middle and High School bands lead worship for both the Wednesday night LOGOS program and on Sunday mornings. All band members are comprised of Geneva youth and practice weekly, or as needed.

Retreats and Camps Summer (week-long); Winter (weekend only)
Camps are a vital part of the youth ministry at Geneva. Students can get away from their everyday schedules in a safe and nurturing environment, grow in their relationship with God and build lifelong friendships.
Junior High Summer Camp 2009 on August 2-7 at Alpine Conference Center: Spots are still avaialble; Register Now! $350, $100 non-refundable deposit.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) Summer - Last week of July
Five mornings a week, Geneva transforms into whatever the theme may be, to create an exciting, fun-filled way for children to experience God's love through song, crafts, games and stories. Seventh and eighth graders get the opportunity to assist teachers and leaders. For both students and volunteers, VBS is one of the most spiritually fulfilling weeks of the year! Here's a photo gallery of 2007's VBS activities and a slide show presentation (below).

OR the slideshow in a new window that can be viewed full screen.

Summer Drama Camp
Geneva is thrilled to make the wonderful world of musical theater come alive for kids! Students age ten through sixteen can participate in this week-long, morning program which culminates with two evening performances Friday in front of a live audience.

Geneva's drama camps are led by Kathleen Chapman and Nancy Matossian. The original musicals are written and directed by Kathleen and are tailored for each cast. Nancy is a professional choreographer and co-directs. Not only do Kathleen and Nancy produce a musical theater experience through a fun learning environment pleasing to the Lord, they also know teens, and are experts at identifying the level of participation that is comfortable for them.

Confirmation Program
The confirmation program is offered annually to 8 - 10th graders who wish to make a public profession of their faith in Jesus Christ and become active members of Geneva. A prerequisite for this program is regular and proven participation in the life of Geneva's worship, fellowship and ministries.

October Pumpkin Carnival
An old-fashioned fall harvest party complete with games, food and a costume parade, which our Middle and High School kids put on for smaller children. This October event features fun events such as a cake walk, bounce house, photo booth, and a snack bar with pizza, popcorn, pumpkin seeds and more.. Bring your kids and your appetite! No scary or evil costumes, please.

Advent Celebration
Middle school students love this event mostly for the cool crafts they can make and then give to their families for Christmas presents! Held the Sunday before Advent, people of all ages come together to "Hang the Greens" in the sanctuary and chapel, prepare decorations for their homes, share a meal and sing Christmas carols.

Father/Daughter Dinner
Fathers and daughters get to enjoy dinner together followed by a special speaker or musical act, or both! However, the highlight of this annual Spring event is the awards ceremony. Bring your appetite and your sense of humor to this highly anticipated event.