Last night in Youth Group we had 2 separate tracks: Amplify (6th & 7th graders & high schoolers) and Confirmation (8th graders). Here’s what we talked about at each:

Amplify Week 3: “History in the Making”

Bottom Line Easter makes Jesus matter.

A fake bunny. Uncomfortable clothes. Searching for hidden eggs filled with melted chocolate. If you grew up confused about Easter, you’re probably not alone. Maybe you grew up in church and you know it has to do with Jesus, but what exactly are we celebrating? Here’s a hint: It’s not the death of Jesus. Yes, Jesus did die for our sins, but then real people, eye witnesses saw him alive. He had told them he would rise from the dead, but no one really expected Him to do it! The resurrection not only proved that Jesus was who he claimed to be, but it separates Christianity from every other religious tradition. We do not celebrate someone who is dead. We celebrate that He is alive and because of that we can trust Him.’

Conversations at Home:

1. What are some of the questions/doubts you have about the resurrection?
2. Who is Jesus to you? What has been influential in shaping how you see Jesus?
3. What is one thing in your life that you do outside of church that shares with the world around you that Jesus is who he says he is?

Confirmation Week 2: Statements of Faith

Bottom Line Articulating what one believes about matters of faith is a lifelong process. Giving thought to how we communicate faith to others in a faith statement is a part of the process and helps us think through what we believe.

This week in confirmation confirmands heard a bit about the history of creeds in the church and their importance in teaching and passing on the faith. Lib shared with them about how Colossians 1:15-20 and Philippians 2:5-11 were probably ancient creeds that Paul was affirming with those respective churches. Next confirmands heard from three DCPC members who have created statements of faith that differ from the traditional prose statements and how those experiences shaped their faith.

Confirmands are challenged this week to ask someone they know what they believe about God and to listen, really listen, to the response without judgment .