Our Mission Statement
Our mission at Bios Kosmos Church Youth Department is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where children can grow and develop into functioning adults. We believe that a strong foundation in faith is critical to this process, and we are committed to educating children on the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. In addition to spiritual growth, we aim to enhance the family dynamic in the home by providing resources and support for parents and guardians. We believe that raising empathetic and compassionate children is essential to building a better world, and we strive to instill these values in our youth through community service and outreach programs. Our goal is to create a safe and nurturing space where children can develop meaningful relationships with their peers and mentors, and where they can explore their faith and their place in the world.
Our Vision Statement
Our vision at Bios Kosmos Church Youth Department is to create a community where children can grow in faith, explore their place in the world, and develop the skills and values needed to become empathetic and compassionate adults.
Our Beliefs
At Bios Kosmos Church Youth Department, we recognize the power of intergenerational friendship in fostering a strong and vibrant community. We actively promote meaningful relationships between our youth and adult members, as we believe that these connections can provide invaluable support, guidance, and mentorship for our young people. Through our intergenerational programming, we strive to create a dynamic and inclusive environment where all members feel valued and supported, regardless of age or background. By encouraging these relationships, we hope to create a sense of belonging and purpose for all members of our community, and to equip our youth with the skills and values they need to become empathetic and compassionate adults. We firmly believe that intergenerational friendship is a key ingredient in building a thriving community, and we are proud to foster these connections within our Bios Kosmos family.
THE TEAM
This texts is to help your site visitors with pressing questions.
Educational Opportunities
Youth Sunday School
Our youth Sunday school program is an exciting opportunity for young people to grow in their faith, develop meaningful relationships with their peers, and explore their place in the world. Starting at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday, our program offers a dynamic and engaging curriculum that is tailored to the unique needs and interests of our youth. Our experienced and dedicated teachers are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where all young people can feel valued and accepted. Through a combination of interactive lessons, group discussions, and hands-on activities, our youth Sunday school program aims to help young people develop the skills, knowledge, and values they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and become compassionate and empathetic adults. Whether your child is new to the church or a seasoned veteran, our youth Sunday school program is a fantastic opportunity to explore their faith, make new friends, and have fun! We invite you to join us at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday and discover all that our program has to offer.
Pre-Youth Beginner's Bible Class
Our pre-youth beginners class is a fantastic opportunity for elementary schoolers to learn about faith, explore their spirituality, and develop meaningful connections with their peers. Held every Monday, our program is designed to provide a fun and engaging introduction to the teachings of the church, while also fostering a sense of community and belonging. Our experienced and dedicated teachers are passionate about working with young children, and they are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where all kids can thrive. Through a variety of interactive lessons, games, and activities, our pre-youth beginners class aims to help children develop a strong foundation of faith, while also building important social and emotional skills. Whether your child is new to the church or has been attending for years, our program is a fantastic opportunity to explore their spirituality, make new friends, and have fun! We invite you to join us every Monday and discover all that our pre-youth beginners class has to offer.
Children's Church
Our children's church program is a wonderful opportunity for kids to explore their faith, connect with other young members of our community, and engage with the teachings of the church. Held every second and third Sunday from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. during the adult Sunday service, our program is designed to be engaging, age-appropriate, and inclusive for all kids. Our experienced and dedicated teachers are passionate about working with children, and they are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where all kids can thrive. Through a variety of interactive lessons, games, and activities, our children's church program aims to help kids develop a strong foundation of faith, while also building important social and emotional skills. Whether your child is new to the church or has been attending for years, our program is a fantastic opportunity to explore their spirituality, make new friends, and have fun! We invite you to join us every second and third Sunday and discover all that our children's church program has to offer.
Pre-Youth Junior's Bible Class
Our pre-youth Junior's Bible class is specifically designed to meet the unique spiritual needs of middle schoolers. During these formative years, kids are experiencing a lot of changes and challenges as they navigate the transition from childhood to adolescence. Our Junior's Bible class provides a safe and supportive environment where kids can explore their faith, connect with other young people, and build a strong foundation of spiritual values. Led by experienced and dedicated teachers, our program is designed to be engaging, interactive, and age-appropriate for middle schoolers. Through a variety of lessons, discussions, and activities, we aim to help kids deepen their understanding of the Bible, explore their relationship with God, and develop important social and emotional skills. We recognize that middle schoolers are facing unique challenges, and we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where kids can feel comfortable expressing themselves and asking questions. We believe that by providing a strong spiritual foundation during these formative years, we can help our young people grow into confident, compassionate, and resilient adults. If you have a middle schooler who is interested in exploring their faith in a supportive and welcoming environment, we invite you to join us for our pre-youth Junior's Bible class.
Youth Bible Class
Our youth Bible class is an exciting and engaging program designed to meet the unique needs of teenagers as they prepare for adulthood. Our program is specifically tailored to kids between the ages of 13 and 18, focusing on high school, college, and life readiness. We understand that teenagers are facing a lot of changes and challenges as they transition into adulthood, and our program is designed to provide them with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive. Through a variety of lessons, discussions, and activities, we aim to help teenagers develop their spiritual lives, build important life skills, and prepare for the challenges of adulthood. We believe that teenagers need to know how to navigate complex issues such as relationships, finances, and career planning, and our program is designed to help them develop the skills they need to succeed in these areas. We also recognize that teenagers are facing unique challenges in today's world, and we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where they can feel comfortable expressing themselves and asking questions. Our experienced and dedicated teachers are passionate about working with teenagers, and they are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where all kids can thrive. If you have a teenager who is interested in exploring their faith, building important life skills, and preparing for the challenges of adulthood, we invite you to join us for our youth Bible class.
Children's Bible Study
Our children's Bible study is a fun and engaging program designed to teach kids of all ages about the Bible and help them grow in their faith. Our program takes place once a week, during our Wednesday night Bible study class, and is open to kids of all ages. We believe that it's never too early to start learning about God, and our program is designed to be age-appropriate for all kids, from toddlers to teenagers. We understand that kids of different ages have different needs and interests, and our program is designed to be flexible and adaptable to meet the unique needs of each child. Our experienced and dedicated teachers are passionate about working with kids, and they use a variety of engaging and interactive teaching methods to help kids learn about the Bible and grow in their faith. Some of the concepts that we teach in our children's Bible study include the love of God, the importance of prayer, the stories of the Bible, and the values of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. We also believe that it's important to teach kids about the world around them and how they can make a positive difference in their communities. Our program is designed to be fun and engaging, with a variety of activities, games, and crafts that help kids learn and grow. If you have a child who is interested in learning about the Bible and growing in their faith, we invite you to join us for our children's Bible study.
EVENTS🥳
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Our church calendar is an excellent resource for staying up-to-date on all the latest youth department updates. By referring to the calendar, you can see all the events, programs, and activities that are planned for the upcoming weeks and months. The youth department is constantly adding new events and programs to the calendar, so it's important to check back regularly to see what's new. Some of the events and programs that you can expect to see on the calendar include Bible studies, small groups, youth choir rehearsals, mission trips, community service projects, and other special events. We encourage all youth to refer to the calendar regularly and to get involved in the youth department's programs and events. By doing so, you can have fun, make new friends, and grow in your faith.
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-Youth Ministry is developmental.
It takes into consideration the developmental stages youth are experiencing. It also
takes into account the process of faith development, and emotional maturity that
youth are experiencing. (Therefore in counseling youth, not every one of their
problems are primarily a spiritual problem.)
-Youth Ministry is Holistic.
It takes into consideration all the needs of youth, physical, emotional, intellectual,
relational, and spiritual. Our programming must address all of these aspects of their
lives.
-Youth Ministry is Cross-Cultural Ministry:
If missionaries require training to penetrate a foreign culture and develop indigenous
ministries then youth deserve the same respect. Society is changing rapidly.
Paradigms shift at an increasing rate. The result is a greater distance between the
generations than in the past. To remain relevant, youth ministers must develop
ministries that use the best of missiological principles and strategies, or just be
content to work with the youth who have been enculturated into the Christian
subculture through their upbringing. (This will result in a strategy that says. ‘ We are
only concerned with holding on to the ones we have -not those who are
unchurched.’)
-Youth Ministry is Cause Oriented
Youth are motivated by causes. We lose our most capable youth by catering to those
who only want to be entertained. Youth will commit themselves to causes that they
believe in. Youth groups that are not involved or lack vision, will not inspire youth.
"We lose kids not because we make serving Jesus too difficult, but because we make
it too easy." (Campolo) Teens don’t feel as great a need to read the Bible or pray if
they are not actively involved in a ministry that demands prayer and sharing the
word.
-Youth Ministry Recognizes Diversity:
There is no such thing as a single youth culture. Youth segregate themselves by their
music interest (grunge, hip hop, reggae rap, gansta rap, jazz fusion, heavy metal, acid
rock...); their sports interests -skateboarders, the football team; or hobbies, video
arcade, doing drugs, etc. There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ youth. The challenge to
youth ministry is to learn how to reach and disciple ever different segment of youth
population in the same way that Jesus was able to minister to zealots, fisherman,
outcasts, and intellectuals. Our outreach efforts cannot only be to one type of youth
that we feel comfortable around.
-Youth Ministry is developmental.
It takes into consideration the developmental stages youth are experiencing. It also
takes into account the process of faith development, and emotional maturity that
youth are experiencing. (Therefore in counseling youth, not every one of their
problems are primarily a spiritual problem.)
-Youth Ministry is Holistic.
It takes into consideration all the needs of youth, physical, emotional, intellectual,
relational, and spiritual. Our programming must address all of these aspects of their
lives.
-Youth Ministry is Cross-Cultural Ministry:
If missionaries require training to penetrate a foreign culture and develop indigenous
ministries then youth deserve the same respect. Society is changing rapidly.
Paradigms shift at an increasing rate. The result is a greater distance between the
generations than in the past. To remain relevant, youth ministers must develop
ministries that use the best of missiological principles and strategies, or just be
content to work with the youth who have been enculturated into the Christian
subculture through their upbringing. (This will result in a strategy that says. ‘ We are
only concerned with holding on to the ones we have -not those who are
unchurched.’)
-Youth Ministry is Cause Oriented
Youth are motivated by causes. We lose our most capable youth by catering to those
who only want to be entertained. Youth will commit themselves to causes that they
believe in. Youth groups that are not involved or lack vision, will not inspire youth.
"We lose kids not because we make serving Jesus too difficult, but because we make
it too easy." (Campolo) Teens don’t feel as great a need to read the Bible or pray if
they are not actively involved in a ministry that demands prayer and sharing the
word.
-Youth Ministry Recognizes Diversity:
There is no such thing as a single youth culture. Youth segregate themselves by their
music interest (grunge, hip hop, reggae rap, gansta rap, jazz fusion, heavy metal, acid
rock...); their sports interests -skateboarders, the football team; or hobbies, video
arcade, doing drugs, etc. There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ youth. The challenge to
youth ministry is to learn how to reach and disciple ever different segment of youth
population in the same way that Jesus was able to minister to zealots, fisherman,
outcasts, and intellectuals. Our outreach efforts cannot only be to one type of youth
that we feel comfortable around.
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I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:10-14
Seven Themes of Comprehensive Youth Ministry
A. Developmentally Appropriate Effective ministry responds to the developmental growth of adolescents by developing programs and strategies that are age-appropriate and strategically focused to contribute to the positive development of youth.
B. Family Friendly Effective ministry recognizes the family as an important setting for ministry and provides links between the programs of youth ministry and the family home through the sharing of information, inclusive programs, and resources.
C. Intergenerational Effective ministry utilizes the intergenerational parish community by developing shared programs and by connecting youth to adults in the community.
D. Multicultural Effective ministry provides ministry to youth in the context of their culture and ethnic heritage. Effective ministry also promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
E. Community-wide Collaboration Effective ministry promotes collaboration with leaders, agencies, and congregations in the wider community. This collaboration includes sharing information, sponsoring programs, and developing advocacy efforts.
F. Leadership Effective ministry mobilizes the people of the faith community to become involved in youth ministry efforts by providing for diverse roles and commitments for adults and youth.
G. Flexible and Adaptable Programming Effective ministry provides flexible and adaptable program structures and ministry responses to address the variety of youth and families in our communities.
B. Family Friendly Effective ministry recognizes the family as an important setting for ministry and provides links between the programs of youth ministry and the family home through the sharing of information, inclusive programs, and resources.
C. Intergenerational Effective ministry utilizes the intergenerational parish community by developing shared programs and by connecting youth to adults in the community.
D. Multicultural Effective ministry provides ministry to youth in the context of their culture and ethnic heritage. Effective ministry also promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
E. Community-wide Collaboration Effective ministry promotes collaboration with leaders, agencies, and congregations in the wider community. This collaboration includes sharing information, sponsoring programs, and developing advocacy efforts.
F. Leadership Effective ministry mobilizes the people of the faith community to become involved in youth ministry efforts by providing for diverse roles and commitments for adults and youth.
G. Flexible and Adaptable Programming Effective ministry provides flexible and adaptable program structures and ministry responses to address the variety of youth and families in our communities.
Education Class Schedules
Youth Sunday School |
Elementary Sunday School |
Prayer -> Pledge -> Song -> Lesson -> Conclusion ->
Closing Prayer |
Prayer -> Pledge -> Song -> Lesson -> Conclusion ->
Closing Prayer |
Children's Church |
Children's Bible Study |
Prayer -> Pledge -> Song of Praise -> Lesson -> Song of Worship -> Conclusion -> Closing Prayer
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Prayer -> Pledge -> Workshop -> Lesson Review -> Conclusion -> Closing Prayer
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All Bible Classes |
Class Schedule: |
All bible classes will use the same program:
Prayer -> Pledge -> Song -> Lesson -> Conclusion -> Closing Prayer |
Sunday school: Sundays from 10am to 10:30am
Children's Church: 11:45 - 12:15 Pre-Youth Bible Class: Mondays and Fridays 4:30 - 4:45 Teen Bible Class: Tuesdays And Thursdays 4:30 - 4:45 Children's Bible Study: Wednesdays at 7pm Christian Youth Fellowship: 2nd Saturdays At 5pm |
Volunteer Opportunities
The Bios Kosmos Church Youth Department offers numerous volunteer opportunities for those who want to make a positive impact, including mentoring youth, leading small groups, chaperoning events, and helping with community service projects.
WHO?Whether you're a parent, a youth, or a member of the community, there are many ways to serve and make a positive impact. Some of the volunteer opportunities available include mentoring youth, leading small groups, chaperoning events, and helping with community service projects. By volunteering with the youth department, you can make a difference in the lives of young people, build meaningful relationships, and grow in your faith.
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HOW?To get involved with the youth department, simply speak to a youth leader or volunteer. They can provide you with more information about the volunteer opportunities available and help you find a role that fits your interests and skills. You can also check the church calendar to see what events and programs are coming up and how you can get involved. We welcome all volunteers and appreciate their support in helping us fulfill our mission of serving and empowering youth.
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WHY?Volunteering with the youth department is a rewarding experience that can have a lasting impact on your life and the lives of others. By giving your time and talents to this important ministry, you can help young people grow in their faith, develop positive relationships, and make a positive impact in their community. We encourage all volunteers to get involved and make a difference today.
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Key Leadership Principles
- The Ten Minute Rule The atmosphere must be set in the room ten minutes before the first student arrives. This means that the lighting, music, activities, prayers, chairs, are all in place, and the leaders are prepared to meet with students. Each student should be greeted as soon as they step on the property. Students who arrive early should be blessed for doing so, not penalized for showing up early by having to set up chairs or put up with chaos, or ignored as leaders chat with one another.
- The Scatter Principle "Like Salt out of the salt shaker" It is always a lot easier to hang out with your friends, or fellowship with other leaders. The Scatter Principle demands that we infiltrate the ranks. We sit with the kids and not with each other. During worship, refreshments, or sports no two leaders should be together. Leaders are cannot become spectator we must be participants. The temptation to hang out at the back where we feel comfortable maybe very real. Boldness may be required to move out and get a seat.
- The Wal-Mart Law(also known as the ten foot rule) Rumor has it that the original law for Wal-Mart employees was that any shopper within a ten foot radius of a worker had to receive a warm smile and be asked if they could be assisted in any way. Applied to our group every leader should make an effort to greet every teen with warm and sensitivity. Some team members will need to be in the halls. Plan to Protect The key ingredient here is that all adult leaders must take the plan to protect. One rule of thumb with the plan is that no leader is alone with minor, in a car, room, or almost any place without written permission. Many of the students are aware of this, but not all of them. Do not leave situations up to the discretion of the student.
- The Team Ethic "United we stand, divided we fall and if we ever have our backs against the wall, we'll be together .." -some song from the seventies When we succeed, we succeed together -when we fail… We have different roles but everyone's role is just as important. If anyone is away we all suffer. It is essential that we are all there. Synergy happens on a good team, that is, the group is better than the sum of the parts. We can accomplish much more as a group than as a collection of individuals. (Join the Borg be assimilated!)
- The High Road Rule Complaints and criticism, sarcastic responses, and cutting comments kill the morale in a group faster than a bout of the Hong Kong flu! We must determine to take the high road at all times. My blood type is B+ (be positive) That is the high road to good morale. If it rains on a trip don't mention the rain. If someone drops the ball don't mention it. Don't judge, don't condemn, don't rebuke. There are times for these things, but they are not Wednesday or Sunday.
- The Law of Expectations "We can count the apples on a tree. God can count the apples in a seed." Studies in education have proven that students live up (or down) to the expectations that their teachers have of them. Labeling kids is so negative because it limits their potential, in our minds and in reality. Remember we were created in the image of God. We are his offspring -that should raise our expectations somewhat. Also don't underestimate God's incredible transformational power in our lives. Don't limit what God can do in their lives or yours.
RULE NUMBER ONE
Create Your Own Unique Style and
Show it Off to the World
27 Lord, you are my Light and my Savior,
so why should I be afraid of anyone?
The Lord is where my life is safe,
so I will be afraid of no one!
2 Evil people might attack me.
They might try to destroy my body.
Yes, my enemies might attack me and try to destroy me,
but they will stumble and fall.
3 Even if an army surrounds me, I will not be afraid.
Even if people attack me in war, I will trust in the Lord.
4 I ask only one thing from the Lord.
This is what I want most:
Let me live in the Lord’s house all my life,
enjoying the Lord’s beauty
and spending time in his palace.[a]
5 He will protect me when I am in danger.
He will hide me in his tent.[b]
He will take me up to his place of safety.
6 If he will help me defeat the enemies around me,
I will offer sacrifices in his tent with shouts of joy.
I will sing and play songs to honor the Lord.
7 Lord, hear my voice.
Be kind and answer me.
8 My heart told me to come to you, Lord,
so I am coming to ask for your help.
9 Don’t turn away from me.
Don’t be angry with your servant.
You are the only one who can help me.
My God, don’t leave me all alone.
You are my Savior.
10 Even if my mother and father leave me,
the Lord will take me in.
11 I have enemies, Lord, so teach me your ways.
Show me the right way to live.
12 My enemies have attacked me.
They have told lies about me and have tried to hurt me.
13 But I really believe
that I will see the Lord’s goodness before I die.[c]
14 Wait for the Lord’s help.
Be strong and brave,
and wait for the Lord’s help.
so why should I be afraid of anyone?
The Lord is where my life is safe,
so I will be afraid of no one!
2 Evil people might attack me.
They might try to destroy my body.
Yes, my enemies might attack me and try to destroy me,
but they will stumble and fall.
3 Even if an army surrounds me, I will not be afraid.
Even if people attack me in war, I will trust in the Lord.
4 I ask only one thing from the Lord.
This is what I want most:
Let me live in the Lord’s house all my life,
enjoying the Lord’s beauty
and spending time in his palace.[a]
5 He will protect me when I am in danger.
He will hide me in his tent.[b]
He will take me up to his place of safety.
6 If he will help me defeat the enemies around me,
I will offer sacrifices in his tent with shouts of joy.
I will sing and play songs to honor the Lord.
7 Lord, hear my voice.
Be kind and answer me.
8 My heart told me to come to you, Lord,
so I am coming to ask for your help.
9 Don’t turn away from me.
Don’t be angry with your servant.
You are the only one who can help me.
My God, don’t leave me all alone.
You are my Savior.
10 Even if my mother and father leave me,
the Lord will take me in.
11 I have enemies, Lord, so teach me your ways.
Show me the right way to live.
12 My enemies have attacked me.
They have told lies about me and have tried to hurt me.
13 But I really believe
that I will see the Lord’s goodness before I die.[c]
14 Wait for the Lord’s help.
Be strong and brave,
and wait for the Lord’s help.