Ages 14–16: Freshmen & Sophomores

"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example..." – 1 Timothy 4:12
These early high school years are about settling in. Students are navigating new social circles, academic pressure, and a desire for more independence. It’s a season to help them ground their identity in Christ, connect faith to daily life, and grow confidence in what they believe.
FAITH MILESTONES
  • Biweekly Youth Group Participation
    Continue engaging in our every-other-week high school youth group (6:30–8pm) with:
    • Bible study with real-life application
    • Fellowship (community, laughter, and honest talk)
    • Open gym or relaxed hangout space to strengthen connections
  • LCMS Youth Gathering (Eligible for 8th–12th Grade Graduates)
    • Every three years, students from our church are invited to attend this life-changing event with thousands of Lutheran teens from across the country. Even if this isn’t a Gathering year, we begin preparing hearts and building excitement in advance.
  • Developing Personal Faith Practices
    Support teens as they:
    • Establish a regular rhythm of Bible reading (even if it’s one verse a day)
    • Learn how to pray honestly—not just formally
    • Ask deep questions and explore real doubts
    • Recognize God in the small and big moments of everyday life
  • Explore What It Means to Be Lutheran
    Revisit truths from confirmation (Catechism, Law/Gospel, Means of Grace) in a new context:
    • “Why does this still matter?”
    • “How is my church different from others?”
  • Mentor Moments
    Encourage relationships with trusted adults in church—elders, youth leaders, or teachers who model a real and rooted faith.
  • Faith & Friendship
    Equip them to navigate peer pressure, media influence, and the temptation to compartmentalize their faith.
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES
  • Cognitive: They are beginning to question inherited beliefs and form their own views
  • Emotional: Confidence may rise or fall with peer dynamics and school performance
  • Social: Friendships shape values and decisions—spiritual friendships matter more than ever
  • Spiritual: They’re watching adults to see if faith is real and worth living
PARENTING ENCOURAGEMENT
This stage feels like letting go—but they still need you, deeply.
📖 Scripture for parents:

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice...” – 2 Timothy 1:5

  • Stay steady. You’re anchoring them, even when they pull away.
  • Keep them rooted in worship. Make church non-negotiable, but not joyless.
  • Let your faith be visible, not perfect. That’s what sticks.
  • Talk about decisions—school stress, relationships, and media—through the lens of faith.

Resources for this age