NextGEN
NextGEN is a new ministry at Messiah designed to provide a clear and intentional pathway for faith development from childhood through high school. With age-specific curriculum and structured spiritual milestones, NextGEN supports families in raising the next generation to know and follow Jesus.
While students are learning, adults are invited to participate in Sunday morning Bible studies, fellowship, or worship. Families are encouraged to worship together—recognizing the vital role parents play in modeling a life of faith—while also having the flexibility to choose what works best for their rhythm.
NextGEN is a church-wide commitment to grow disciples of all ages, centered on God’s Word, rooted in family, and strengthened in community.
MessiahKids (PreK–5th grade) meets Sundays from 9:30–10:30 am.
MessiahYouth (6th–12th grade) meets Wednesdays from 6:30–8:00 p.m. with age-specific lessons including Confirmation and high school small groups.
Sunday worship continues at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am.
MessiahKids is for Preschool–5th grade.
Nursery care is available for children 3 and under during the 9:30 am service.
MessiahYouth (6th–12th grade) has Wednesday evening programming. Youth are encouraged to worship or serve with their families on Sundays.
MessiahKids check-in is at the lower-level school entrance. Classrooms are located inside the school area, and pickup happens at the same location.
A printed name tag with a matching parent code ensures secure check-in and pickup.
MessiahYouth checks in at the upper-level doors on Wednesday nights and heads to designated areas after receiving a name tag.
Yes, advance registration helps us prepare classrooms, materials, and staff. Registering doesn’t require weekly attendance—it simply lets us know who to expect. Registration is available through the Church Center app.
We’ll use Wonder Ink from David C. Cook—a trusted, engaging curriculum designed to help kids discover their place in God’s story.
Lessons include Bible videos, memory verses, interactive activities, music, and take-home family resources.
All volunteers complete background checks and training. Our digital check-in system ensures safe pick-up with a matching parent code. A security team is on-site, and we are attentive to allergies and special needs.
We’ll provide a one-on-one “buddy” to support your child during class. Our team will work closely with you to ensure your child is cared for and included.
We encourage drop-off for smoother transitions and to support classroom flow. If your child is uncomfortable, they’re welcome to attend worship with you instead.
Yes! While kids are learning, parents are encouraged to attend worship, join a Bible study, enjoy fellowship, or serve on a Sunday morning team like nursery, hospitality, or in audio/video.
Ways to Serve
What to Expect
On Sundays (MessiahKids – PreK to 5th Grade):
Large Group Teachers – lead interactive Bible study time
Small Group Leaders – guide kids through activities and discussion
Check-In Hosts – welcome families and assist with check-in
Buddies – provide one-on-one support for children with special needs
On Wednesdays (MessiahYouth – 6th to 12th Grade):
Large Group Leaders – teach Confirmation lessons
Small Group Leaders – mentor middle school and high school youth
Check-In Hosts – greet students and manage the check-in process
We value consistency but understand flexibility. You can serve every week, on a rotating basis, or as a substitute—we’ll work with your availability!
Preparation:
No need to write your own lessons! All materials are provided in advance and are easy to follow. When you arrive, your supplies will be ready for you.
Training & Support:
Yes, we’ll train and support you! Volunteers receive curriculum orientation and ongoing help from our staff. We’ll also host an open house the Sunday before programming begins.
Safety Requirements:
All volunteers complete a background check and sign a covenant to ensure a safe, Christ-centered environment for our kids and youth.
Experience Needed?
Not at all! If you have a heart to serve, we’ll equip you with everything you need—even if you’ve never taught before.
Even if you don’t have kids, you’re part of this mission. NextGEN is more than just Sunday School or youth group—it’s an intentional pathway to nurture faith from early childhood through high school. It’s a vital part of how our church lives out its mission to Love God, Love Others, and Share Christ with the next generation.
Because discipleship is a church-wide mission.
Caring for and raising up young believers is essential to the unity and future of the Church. Jesus made it clear: “Let the little children come to me…” (Matthew 19:14).
Whether or not you have children, you are part of a faith community that is called to help others grow in Christ—especially the next generation.
It’s all connected.
Just like adults, children need worship and the Word. Sunday morning Bible study complements worship by grounding our kids in Scripture and helping them build a lifelong faith.
This is discipleship in action—and it mirrors what we as adults need too: a rhythm of hearing God’s Word and living it out daily.
Absolutely!
While kids attend MessiahKids from 9:30–10:30 am, adults can:
Attend worship (at 8:00, 9:30, or 11:00 am)
Join a Bible study (including a pastor-led class and other group options)
Serve in a ministry
Spend time in fellowship
You play an important role!
Pray regularly for the kids, youth, families, and volunteers involved.
Encourage and invite others who might be great at teaching or supporting these ministries. (You can pass names along to Pastor Andy or Sarah Dibbern, Youth Director.)
Celebrate what God is doing—your support helps us raise the next generation in faith.
Still have questions? No problem! We’re here to help! Please reach out to us for assistance | 402.489.3024.
