Grapple: to struggle, to wrestle; to hook….

 

Fifth and Sixth grade students are in transition. They are not little children any more but they are not quite in the maze of junior high confusion. They are tweeners….between one and the other. They are double digits but not teens. And they have unique needs. Beginning in 2008, BSLC has been developing a youth group for these special youth. 

 

Our fifth and sixth graders no longer meet with the younger kids of the ATV program. They have their own room (check it out, the colors are as exciting as the kids in the group.) They have their own program and they have their own youth group on Wednesdays. 

 

The hope for Grapple youth is that they will mature in their faith to a personal commitment to trust in Jesus as Savior and seek to walk with Him as Lord. Worship together with the Junior High group some Sunday mornings and special time for prayer together during the Wednesday evening group are also part of the plan. 

Grapple-ites can begin to develop special connections to the body of Christ through group times together both Sunday and Wednesday. Growing in their understanding of friendship and discipleship, they can become ambassadors for Christ in their schools and communities, inviting friends to join in activities and service opportunities and begin to share their faith with them in daily life. 

 

During their fifth grade year they have an opportunity to take part in pre-communion instruction and begin to participate in the life of the body with this sacrament. 

 

Also during the year the Grapple youth will have their first lock-ins and other social activities. Grapple youth will also be able to participate in service activities such as planning and participating in the Christmas program, helping with the church clean-up day before Easter, serving as helpers in child care or group guides for the summer Fun and Friends program and other activities where they can serve with their parents and friends.