Youth Group 101 – Peachtree City Student Ministry

Written by: Caleb McGaughy

Whether you are brand new to our student ministry, or you’re a seasoned veteran, we want you to know that we are deeply invested in the lives of our students. Our youth group aims to equip both parents and teens, helping students grow into mature Christians who follow Jesus all the days of their life. Keep reading for a summary and Youth Group 101 from our Student minister, Caleb!

New & Returning Students

For new students, we hope they’re able to quickly grow comfortable in our rhythm: what Bible class looks like, what events we participate in, and how we interact with one another. For returning students, we hope they can be reminded of and encouraged by the foundations we’ve been building together: faith in Jesus, engagement with God’s Word, and active participation in the life of the Church.

Foundations for Spiritual Growth

So how do we make that big goal a reality? We focus on a few key things that form the foundation for their spiritual growth. First, everything we do begins and ends with the Word of God. Bible class is the core of our ministry. On Sundays, students engage in more traditional lessons, while Wednesdays might include interactive discussions, singing, or activities. The point isn’t just to sit and listen! Instead, it’s to wrestle with God’s Word, ask questions, and see how it applies to life today. Students are encouraged to bring their Bibles and actively participate, even in small ways, because spiritual growth comes from engaging, not just observing.

Next, we complement Bible class with events and activities: camps, service projects, worship nights, and workdays. These give students hands-on opportunities to practice what they’re learning. While we have rules about respect, responsibility, and safety, these events are really about seeing God’s Kingdom in action and learning how to live out faith in everyday life.

And yes, parents: their friends are always welcome.

Core Goals

Our ministry has three core goals for students.

1. We want them to articulate what Jesus has done in their lives, being able to explain how their faith shapes who they are and how they live.
2. We want them to identify Christian mentors (adults who model faithfulness and inspire them to grow spiritually).
3. We want them to realize their identity in the Church, understanding that they belong, are equipped for good works, and have a role in God’s Kingdom.

Every activity, discussion, and lesson is designed to move students closer to these goals. Our hope is that youth group is a place where teens leave confident in their walk with Jesus, ready to follow Him faithfully.

Parent Cues

• Ask your student: What’s one thing you learned about the Bible this week?
• Discuss the other adults in your student’s life who model faith. Encourage conversations about why mentors matter.
• Talk about ways your family or your student can start serving or contributing in our church.
• Check in on their class engagement. Ask things like: Did you bring your Bible? Did you get a chance to share or ask a question?
• Share with your student something that you learned in the adult Bible class.
• Pray together for courage and wisdom to grow spiritually and live out faith in everyday life.