Youth | Zion Tioga

Durable Faith that Lasts

Our youth program is led by dedicated volunteers who share a common goal: to build durable faith in the lives of young people that will last a lifetime. We believe that investing in the spiritual growth and development of our youth is of utmost importance. We understand the unique challenges young people face in today's world navigating the complexities of life while staying rooted in their faith.

We aim to provide a safe space for them to explore their faith, ask questions, and grow deep in their relationship with God. Through worship, study, discussion, and meaningful connection, we seek to inspire and equip our youth to live out their faith with confidence and conviction. As parents ourselves, we recognize the vital role that parents play in shaping the faith journey of their children. We encourage your active involvement and collaboration in our youth ministry efforts. Whether your child is new to our church or has been a part of our community for years, we warmly invite them to join us on this incredible journey of faith. We are here to walk alongside them, provide mentorship, and offer guidance. We look forward to witnessing the lasting impact of a durable faith in the lives of our young people.

Youth Ministry Values

We recognize five goals necessary to develop followers of Jesus whose faith will prove durable in the face of cultural hostility and spiritual strife.

Christian Identity

We want youth to recognize their eternal worth and purpose defined by Jesus Christ in His Word. We believe this truth and reality anchors their life in God's design.

Biblical Discernment

We want to equip youth to more carefully examine and engage their world in the light of Scripture. We believe youth need to be prepared for a culture that hates their faith.

Deep Connection

We want youth to have meaningful relationships with peers and spiritually mature mentors. We believe hurt and distrust move youth to destructive isolation.

Life Preparation

We want youth who are prepared to make a difference in the world. We believe youth are unprepared for real life, but find fulfillment in finding their place in the world.

Missional Service

We want youth to move past their own preferences and desires to serve others. We believe service is a necessary and blessed part of growing into maturity.

Youth Ministry at Zion

Youth group meets Wednesdays at 6:30 during the school year. We do a Bible study, games, and activities to build meaningful relationships for durable faith.

Confirmation meets 5:30-6:30 during the school year and usually consists of 7th-8th grade students. Our confirmation program combines classroom time with at-home discussion and youth community activities.

HeBrews is a Sunday youth beverage hospitality ministry for youth service and fundraising. For a current Lotus beverage menu, follow us on Facebook!

Monthly family meals and worship vespers for all ages (resumes October). We try to share current playlists of worship sets.

Summer lock-in at the Tioga Community Center and Zion

Recharge is our annual ski and tubing overnight retreat to Bottineau, ND

Biannual FLY Convention is our keystone summit event in Colorado. Note that registration is 6 months prior!

FLY Beyond is our off-year youth conference at the ARC in Wisconsin. Note that registration deadlines are over a month in advance!

We have an annual retreat available to youth workers and volunteers in January. If you are interested info, contact Pastor Chris.

Youth discipleship program and curriculum for students 6th grade through young adult. This is a program in partnership with other AFLC churches and youth ministries.

Youth ministry day at Zion in October

Our college in Plymouth, MN offers Associates, Bachelors, and Masters degrees in ministry. Whether you are looking for a good start in life or excellent ministry training, start here, go anywhere.

Vespers launch 2023

FLY Beyond 2024

FLY 2023

Pastor Chris is very involved in Rise Youth at Zion. Reach out anytime with questions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What grades participate in Rise Youth? A: For most of our programming, youth grades 6-12th participate in activities. For fundraising and service activities, students are eligible starting in the January before they begin their 6th grade school year, ending at the end of August of their Senior year.

Q: When do you do confirmation? A: Confirmation is typically offered to students 7th-8th grade. Currently, Pastor Chris also teaches the 6th-8th grade Sunday school class. Because confirmation is primarily instruction in Christian basics, it is offered to older students of ANY age. Contact Pastor Chris for special tracks and more information.

Q: Does our family need to be members of the congregation to participate? A: No. While we strongly encourage regular congregational life as essential to healthy spiritual and family life, our youth ministry programs are designed to avoid artificial pressures on church membership.

Q: What is your fundraising policy? A: Our fundraising policy allows for non-member students to accrue financial assistance for youth camps and programming. Youth volunteer events see proceeds divided among those who have served. The Zion Youth Ministry Board maintains student accounts in coordination with the Treasurer. A full policy is available with more details.

Q: Is there scholarship support for the Free Lutheran Bible College? A: Yes. Zion maintains a scholarship program to send Zion high school graduates to our Free Lutheran Bible College in Plymouth, MN. Between our in-house scholarship and many donor-sponsored scholarships at FLBC, this educational option is an incredible value.

Q: What support resources does Rise Youth take advantage of? A: We are blessed to be supported by the staff of AFLC Youth Ministries, numerous national camps/conferences, regional partner churches, and training/resources from consultants and youth ministry veterans. We strive to "pay it forward" in likewise encouraging youth ministries elsewhere in the country.