Ages 16–18: Juniors & Seniors
"Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act." – Psalm 37:5
These final high school years are filled with pressure and possibility. Teens are making decisions about college, careers, relationships, and identity—and wondering how faith fits into it all. This is a time to walk with them closely, help them discern God’s voice, and remind them: you are not alone, and you are not uncalled.
These final high school years are filled with pressure and possibility. Teens are making decisions about college, careers, relationships, and identity—and wondering how faith fits into it all. This is a time to walk with them closely, help them discern God’s voice, and remind them: you are not alone, and you are not uncalled.
FAITH MILESTONES
- Owning Their Faith Publicly & Personally
- Speak openly about what they believe and why
- Understand how to defend their faith graciously
- Wrestle with doubts honestly—and grow through them
- Begin to take responsibility for attending church, devotions, and serving
- LCMS Youth Gathering (every 3 years)
When this falls during their junior or senior year, it’s especially powerful—helping shape identity, calling, and lasting friendships before they graduate. - Leading in the Church
Offer real, meaningful opportunities:- Leading youth small groups or discussions
- Mentoring younger teens or helping with middle school events
- Reading in worship, running tech, joining worship teams
- Giving testimonies or leading prayer in safe settings
- Vocation & Calling Conversations
We ask:“What has God made you good at?”
Help them understand that vocation is about more than jobs—it’s about their whole life being used in service to God and neighbor.
“Where do you see a need in the world?”
“How can your gifts serve others and point to Jesus?” - Launch Prep
Teach skills for post-high school faith life:- How to find a church
- How to pray when you feel distant
- How to manage time, tech, and temptation
- How to stay connected to God’s Word and His people
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES
- Cognitive: Fully able to understand nuance and complexity—now they want faith to hold up
- Emotional: Seeking security, identity, and belonging in the midst of pressure
- Social: Many are preparing to say goodbye to current routines and relationships
- Spiritual: Wrestling with autonomy: “Will I still follow Jesus if no one makes me?”
PARENTING ENCOURAGEMENT
This is the time to shift from managing to mentoring. You're handing off—not checking out.
📖 Scripture for parents:
This is the time to shift from managing to mentoring. You're handing off—not checking out.
📖 Scripture for parents:
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” – 3 John 1:4
- Help them practice life skills with a spiritual foundation: budgeting, time management, rest, community
- Remind them of who they are in Christ when everything else feels uncertain
- Pray for and with them—and let them hear you
- Bless them with freedom and support: “You’re growing into who God made you to be, and I trust Him with your future.”
