YOUR PLACE TO BELONG

Teens need to have a place to belong. To grow in their faith, build relationships, and connect with God.

We designed our Students program for Junior High & High School Students (7th-12th grade) to do just that. Check out the ways you can keep your Students connected.

student Night

Select Wednesdays | 6-8p

If your teen wants to have fun and expand their faith, we have the answer—Student Night. Teens engage in youth-led worship, relevant teaching, and spend time hanging out with friends.

Meetup Dates

October 12 – regular programming
October 19 – campfire, hot dogs, s’mores
October 26 – costume contest

give back & help the homeless

This October, let’s give back to our community & serve others! We are partnering with Family of God in Detroit to help the homeless by donating items they need most. On Student Nights this month, the small group that brings in the most donations wins an awesome prize!

Items to Donate:
Socks (adults)
Underwear – kids & adults. Males sizes needed: L-2xl
Candles (source of heat and light)

Student Night FAQs

What happens at Student Night?

We start our time together hanging out and playing games, then we move into the worship center for student-led worship and a message. After that, we break off into age-appropriate small groups where students can connect with one another and discuss the topic of the week.

Can my student bring a friend?

Absolutely! We love to see students bring their friends and we encourage it.

What if my student doesn't know anyone?

If you don’t know any other student then that is all the more reason to come. You can also have your student bring a friend if that makes them feel more comfortable.

What are small groups like?

Small groups are mostly separated by age and gender. In these groups, students will be able to build relationships with other students and leaders while sharing about themselves and discuss the lesson from that night.

Sunday Breakfast at 10a

Teens, come enjoy breakfast with us every Sunday at 10a in the Cafe. Eat, have fun, and hang out with friends.

first communion & confirmation program

Your Student’s Next Faith Steps

First Communion and Confirmation (FCC) are two important stepping stones in your Student’s faith walk. During this program, your student will expand their connection with God and learn to own their faith.

First Communion is a 1-day training that happens each year in February for 6th grade and up. Register HERE.

Confirmation is a 2-year program that students can begin in 7th grade. The program consists of three seminars and a retreat each year. Students are confirmed in October after year 2. 

Want more info? Email us by clicking below.

Learn More

First Communion/Confirmation Details

Student/Parent Requirements

Students are required to attend the following:
–The Junior High Retreat | October 7-9, 2022 at Camp Arcadia
–Three seminars at SG | November 12, 2022, January 21, 2023 & March 4, 2023 (9:30a-12p)
–First Communion Training | Sunday, February 5, 2023 (12-2p). Lunch will be provided.

Parent Requirements:
At Shepherd’s Gate, we encourage and equip you—the parents—to be the primary faith developer in your student’s life. Therefore, parents are required to attend the seminars/training with their students so they can partner together to help their student’s faith grow.

Important Dates

First Communion Service | February 26, 2023 (12-2p) lunch included.
Confirmation Dinner-Testimony/Blessing | Saturday October 28, 2023 (6p-8p)
Confirmation Service Sunday | October 29, 2023 (10:45a)

Get Involved at Church

We encourage our Junior High & High School students to serve at Shepherd’s Gate by volunteering in our SG Kids program during the 10:45a service. Whether your student wants to lead worship, run sound, or help our nursery caregivers, we want them to get involved and give back. Check out all the ways your student can use their talents to serve.

Serving Opportunities