Vision (Where we want to GO):

To develop lifelong followers of Christ.

We seek to meet teens where they are in their spiritual walk and challenge them to grow in a safe, Christ-centered space that bridges the gap between diverse groups of people. All teens, regardless of race, class, or family situations can find a place to connect to the body of Christ through weekly community meetings that offer fun, fellowship, discipleship and worship. At each meeting, they will have fun, learn about God, and be a part of a community of believers who strive to live authentic lives for Christ.

Mission (Why we exist):

To build a community of diverse teenagers who are being transformed by Christ.

A transformed student is one who personally understands the grace of God and has trusted Christ as their Savior. These students are committed to spiritual growth which is shown through a life change. Part of their growth is found in commitment to a small group of fellow believers who pursue maturity and community. A committed student is learning about and developing their God-given gifts as a servant of Christ. These students are developing a heart to reach out and share the love of Christ with their non-believing friends.

Why do we do what we do?

One of the greatest needs of this generation of middle and high school students is to see others living authentic lives for Christ. This skeptical generation learns best in the context of genuine relationships where they see leaders and other students struggling, growing, and learning about Christ together. In this framework, Jesus becomes real. Students then begin to understand their part in building God's kingdom-allowing God to change their lives, the lives of their friends, to build the church and to impact the world.

How we'll get there

We will strive to make the Kingdom of God a reality for students by establishing authentic relationships and providing relevant experiences that will allow students to connect the truth of the Bible with their everyday lives, resulting in transformation. We do this through:

Worship: We will engage monthly in worship during youth group and attend city-wide worship services.

Discipleship: We will have on opportunity to be discipled during Youth Group and in D Groups where the Seven Checkpoints will be introduced and lived out.

Service: Students will discover their spiritual gifts and participate in service projects and mission trips.

Reconciliation: In all youth group activities, diversity will be celebrated through music, food, and activities. Students will build relationships with a diverse group of people while learning about God's call to be reconciled to one another.

Recreation: Through intentional activities that promote fun and group bonding such as paintball, rock climbing, basketball, and other games, we seek to build community. Recreation will be used to open doors and build bridges between diverse groups of people.

Seven Checkpoints - We use the research of Andy Stanley and Stuart Hall adapted from their book "The Seven Checkpoints- Seven Principles Every Teenager Needs to Know". These are the seven core principles that every teenager will walk away with if they are involved in Madison's Youth Ministry from 7th-12th grade. The Seven Checkpoints will drive the content of all that is studied and taught in our youth ministry.[ more ]

Discipline - When it comes to discipline we will be consistent, in one accord, and loving. That is why we give strict guidelines and expectations so that everyone knows what to expect. With the Five Finger Contract each finger stands as a reminder of a behavior that is expected: Safety, Commitment, Respect, Responsibility, and Encouragement.[ more ] If the Five Finger Contract isn't making it, we allow Three Strikes before a student is asked to leave. This is how we live together at Madison. Ya'll with it?