YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

 Two ministry teams that help guide our children through their spiritual journey are youth and children’s ministries.

Those of us with children share a peace of mind when we drop our youth at ZUM.  We don’t have to question their safety or worry about the environment, no matter what age they are.  We feel safe in knowing they are greeted by adults who care for them and appreciate them for who they are no matter what stage of youth they are experiencing. 

Children’s ministries lead and nurture our children from birth through elementary school. Team members ensure the children feel safe, accepted, and assist them in starting their journey toward being Disciples of Christ.  Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Luke 18:16-17.

Support services and activities include programs such as nursery services for babies and toddlers, pre-school during the week, W.O.R.M. Sunday School, vacation bible school, KidShine, Zummy Bears, Zum Dingers, and Zum Bumz at Wednesday Night Live .

Youth ministries provide services for youth age 12 through 18.  The team also helps students follow the disciplines of faith by following Jesus.  The Book of Discipline states “to love youth where they are, to encourage them in developing their relationship to God, to provide them with opportunities for nurture and growth, and to challenge them to respond to God’s call to serve in their communities” (¶1119.2). 

The team coordinates youth Sunday school and Firefall ministries. Firefall provides leadership and ministry support for Wednesday Night Live (WNL), small groups for high schoolers, mission trips, camping, evangelism training trips like DC LA, and various other activities.

Team leaders from both groups are responsible for reporting to the Church Council and oversee their respective ministry teams.

The next time you bring your youth to ZUM, consider the time they spend with the leaders and other youth as growth toward a spiritual relationship with God.  The opportunities and challenges they experience will help nurture and grow them into future Christian leaders.