For Sophomore Ben Beels and the rest of his Lifeline youth group, the unforeseen weather during their summer mission trip at ServeGR meant only one thing: it was time to play one great, conglomerated game of dodgeball.
“It started pouring rain on everyone,” Ben said, “so all the students, instead of going to sit inside, changed into our swimsuits, got a ton of dodgeballs, and played a 200-person game of dodgeball using tennis courts; I have many memorable moments from my youth group, and the best ones are from the trips that we go on.”
Ben, who has been attending youth group since sixth grade, is one of the many young adults involved in the Christian student ministry, Lifeline, at Ada Bible Church, which has chapters in Knapp, Cascade, East Beltline, and Kentwood. Open to children anywhere between sixth grade to senior year, such youth groups have been catalysts for spiritual growth in the Ada community, touching the hearts of not only those directly involved, but also expanding their reach through philanthropic efforts and volunteering endeavors to strengthen generosity, kindness, and grace pervasively. For Ben, the opportunity to have a group of like-minded individuals alongside him has given him pillars of friendship and, most importantly, fortitude and truth with God.
“My favorite thing about being a part of the youth group is that everyone there is nice and fun to talk to,” said Ben. “It’s a great place to continue learning about God and what He wants for you. The youth group has had a massive impact on my faith, they’ve shown me that God will always have people for me, and it’s helped me continue my faith. [It has] helped me build an amazing amount of friendships. It’s definitely one of the best ways to meet new people, and I’ve made so many friends through it.”
Focused on immersing the youth into the Bible through engaging, thought-provoking activities, students can be sure that they are entering into a welcoming community from the second they walk through the door to the minute they leave, regardless of if they have been attending Church for years or if they have no prior experience in Christianity. For Senior Lauren Coon, who has been a Lifeline student since seventh grade, part of what makes her experience in youth groups so fulfilling are the leaders who have been models of benevolence and reassurance in her life.
“My youth leader is so sweet and genuine to all of us,” Lauren said, “which makes me and my friends excited to attend Lifeline each Sunday. She is always willing to help us out and listen to us if we have something on our mind. Don’t be afraid to join a youth group, because you will build special bonds as well as grow your relationship with God in so many ways. Hearing the teachings and applying the lessons to your own life will ultimately shape your life in the best way possible.”
Outside of the weekly services, Lauren has been able to take part in a multitude of auxiliary events that have furthered her faith. Throughout Ada, many participating churches and Christian non-profit organizations collaborate in tandem to spread the love of Jesus through volunteering, donation drives, and welfare events.
“I have loved attending the camps such as Snow Camp and Serve GR because they are extremely eye-opening, and [they are] great opportunities to grow closer to God,” Lauren said. “By opening up about ourselves and our lives, I have been able to build friendships with a special group of girls that will last a long time. I have gotten to know my friends in the small group since middle school, and we have grown super close ever since. I love the strong connections and friendships I’ve made with the girls in my group.”
Through the teachings, friendships, and support she’s received from her youth group, Lauren has developed a more hopeful and uplifting perspective on life. She finds herself approaching challenges with faith rather than fear and embracing the kindness and love that her group has instilled in her.
“Being involved in youth group has strengthened my faith, and hearing the teachings each week allows me to see the world in a more positive light,” Lauren said. “I have seen God move more in my life and the lives of my friends in my small group as we have shared our life experiences and opened up to each other.”
The impact of youth groups extends far beyond Sunday gatherings, shaping the way students experience their faith and friendships. Whether through meaningful conversations, guidance during tough times, or simply being a source of encouragement, these mentors create a welcoming and supportive environment. For sophomore Anna Morris, the dedication and kindness of her youth leaders have played a major role in her spiritual journey, offering her wisdom and reassurance when she needs it most.
“Without my youth leaders, my youth group would be completely different,” said Anna, who has been attending the youth group Anthem at Keystone Community Church for over three years. “My small group leader, who is a volunteer, is almost like a second mom to me, and my youth pastors are basically family. My youth leaders are some of the most amazing people I have ever met and they have helped me improve so much in my faith.”
Youth group has given Anna a strong sense of community and belonging, as being surrounded by supportive friends who share her values has made it easier for her to be herself. While it can be easy to succumb to trivial worries outside of her youth group, the connections she’s built have not only strengthened her faith but also expanded her social circle in ways that uplift her confidence.
“Being with people who share my same values, it is easier to be myself,” Anna said. “That has helped me to branch out and make more friends; some of my friends from school have also joined my youth group because they have seen how much of a positive influence it is on me. I love how I can go to church and be myself and not have to worry about my appearance. I have made some of my closest friends at Anthem, and I can talk to them openly.”
The atmosphere of such youth groups is often customizable; there is a community out there for everyone. While some groups are larger and full of energy, others are smaller and more intimate, allowing for deep, personal connections across the board. Some youth groups even offer online services for those unable to attend in person. No matter the size or commitment level, each youth group offers a unique environment where students can grow in their faith and feel a sense of peace with themselves.
“I would suggest trying multiple youth groups to see which one fits you best,” Anna said. “Some youth groups are a lot bigger than others and some are pretty small. If you are interested in trying a youth group, I would highly recommend it. Not all youth groups require people to be Christian or have a religious background, which can be really nice for people trying out a new faith.”
No matter where someone is in their faith journey, the wonderful youth groups of Ada offer a welcoming space for everyone. Whether you’ve been involved in church for years or are just curious about Christianity, there is always a place to learn, grow, and connect. The friendships, mentorship, and experiences gained through youth group can have a lasting impact, shaping both faith and character and—at the heart of it all—involvement is all about being part of a supportive community where everyone is valued and encouraged.
“My only advice for someone considering joining a church youth group is to keep an open mind,” Ben said. “You don’t have to have Christian beliefs to join or participate, but if you listen to what people have to say about their faith and their stories you might find that Christianity is for you.”
