Middle School Ministry

Lots of ways to get connected, have fun and grow faith.

Download our Youth Summer Ministry Guide here.

At UALC, our mission is to be and to make disciples of Jesus Christ, loving God and our neighbors with soft hearts, open hands, engaged minds, and whole spirits. MSM (Middle School Ministry) is a community of disciples in 6th-8th grades practicing our faith with one another. As followers of Jesus, we worship, grow, and serve together.

Contact Kelsey Bacon, Director of Middle School Ministry, for questions about anything related to MSM.

Worship

We believe that a key step in a student’s long-term faith formation is to connect with the larger congregation by attending, or streaming, worship with their families. Teens can also volunteer at in-person worship helping with hospitality and ushering.

Grow

Weekly MSM Group

MSM Group is a fun, welcoming community where middle schoolers can come to grow, connect, and play lots of games with friends. We meet every Sunday at our Mill Run campus from 4:00-5:30 pm for socially distanced time with small groups and a few large group games. Not comfortable coming in-person? No problem! MSM Online meets from 6:00-6:45 pm on Sundays for fun and fellowship. Email Kelsey for the Zoom link. Contact: Kelsey Bacon

Growth Workshops

As part of UALC’s mission to be disciples, we provide growth opportunities at all age levels. For middle schoolers, we have four key workshops that we believe are crucial for faith formation and the path toward confirmation. These workshops are for parents and students to attend together, as we believe parents are the primary formers of faith and we want to partner with you in this journey. Contact Kelsey Bacon for more information and registration.

Following Jesus in Middle School
Incoming 6th graders and parents - 1 session
In this workshop, we’ll help you prepare for the challenges and changes of middle school. You’ll also get an exciting preview of Middle School Ministry at UALC and meet other 6th grade students and parents!

The Ten Commandments
6th-8th graders and parents | 4 sessions | Sundays, April 11-May 2
Learn the meaning of each of the Ten Commandments and their value for life today. Offered on Sundays, April 11-May 2, 4:00-5:30 pm in the Lytham Road Sanctuary. Online option is available for those who do not want to come in person. Register here for either option. Fee is $10 per student.

The Lord’s Prayer
6th-8th graders and parents - 4 sessions (online only)
Learn the meaning of the Lord’s Prayer and how to pray. Register for the online workshop here. The online format is especially helpful for students who need to catch up. Fee is $15 per student.

The Apostles’ Creed
6th-8th graders and parents - 4 sessions (online only)
Designed to clarify what it means to believe in God--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Register for the online workshop here. The online format is especially helpful for students who need to catch up. Fee is $15 per student.

Serve

Mission Experiences

Throughout the year, we have multiple service opportunities. We go on a local mission trip serving throughout Columbus in the summer. We also do a two-day poverty-focused mission experience called the Micro Mission in the spring, as well as other one-off service experiences throughout the school year. Upcoming:

MSM Submerge Mini Retreat – March 5-6

Looking for a deeper dive into scripture, prayer, and worship? Come along on the MSM Submerge Mini Retreat to grow your faith, spend time with the Lord, and create deeper relationships within the MSM Community! March 5, 7:00-9:00 pm; March 6, 9:00 am-12:00 pm at Mill Run. No fee. Contact: Kelsey Bacon

Consent and Waiver Form

All parents, or guardians, of children and youth must complete the Consent and Waiver Form to participate in UALC events and programs. Fill out the form here.

Are you on social media?

Find MSM on Instagram at @middleschoolministry.ualc

Want to find out about camp?

Find camp info for all ages.

Can I contact pastors or staff?

Yes, get a full list of e-mail links.

Want to get involved?

Find local serving opportunities.

Volunteer on a Team

Join a Youth Ministry team and be part of transforming lives. Many opportunities for any skill set, age or schedule. Apply here.

What Do You Do?

We gather together for fun and games as well as learning and worship. We go deep in small groups along with serving God’s Kingdom together. Come and join our community!

Can I Come Anytime?

Of course! And bring friends. If you've come before but it's been a while, not to worry. Just come back when you can.