Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here!

October has arrived, and with it comes the real rhythm of the school year: full calendars, cooler nights, football games, homework battles, and everything in between. The newness of the school year has worn off, and now our students are settling into the day-to-day grind of classes, friendships, and pressures that don't always make it into the dinner-table conversation.

That's what makes this season so important. The first weeks of the year were about making the connection, and now we get to watch what happens when students actually plug in. Last month we saw God move in some incredible ways, and we're so grateful to be walking through it with you.

This month's parent resource tackles something that's in the pocket of nearly every teen you know: the screen. It's a topic every parent is wrestling with, and our hope is that it gives you practical, encouraging ways to lead your teen through it.

Here's what's happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“The Screens in Their Pocket: Guiding, Not Just Guarding”

Who spends more time shaping your teen's view of the world each day: you, their youth pastor, or the phone in their pocket? Every scroll is a tiny sermon about what's normal, what's beautiful, and who matters, and something is discipling your teen's heart every day. Your first instinct may be to lock it all down, but a lockdown only works while the phone lives under your roof. Proverbs 4 shows a better way: a father teaching his son why to guard his own heart, so the son can do it himself. Your goal isn't only a guarded teen. It's a teen who knows how to guard their own heart.

This month's resource connects to what your student is learning in our "Head Games" series, and to the screen that feeds their head more than anything else. Inside, you'll find:

• Why guarding your teen's heart now is meant to prepare them to guard it themselves later

• An honest look at how our own phone habits teach our teens more than our rules do

• Four practical ways to guide, not just guard, including building a family media plan together and making it safe for your teen to come clean when they've seen something they wish they hadn't

• A simple challenge to try with your teen this week

• A prayer to pray over them this month

Our prayer is that this resource helps your home become the place where your teen learns to fill their mind with what is true, lovely, and good, and where it's always safe to be honest.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was full of life change, laughter, and a lot of fun!

🏕️ Senior High Fall Retreat

Our Senior High students spent the weekend away from the normal pace of life, and God showed up in a big way. There were great moments of worship, honest conversations, and time to simply slow down and pursue Jesus together.

Most importantly, two students gave their lives to Jesus. We are overjoyed for them and for their families, and we'd love for you to celebrate with us and keep praying for them as they take their first steps of faith.

Our Junior High retreat is this weekend! Please be praying for our students, leaders, and everything God has planned for the weekend.

🎳 Small Group Night

Small Group Night was a great time of building community! Each group did something different. Some went bowling, some did crafts, some enjoyed great food and games, and some even went tubing on the lake.

Nights like this might look like just fun (and it was!), but they're also how students and coaches build the kind of trust that makes real conversations possible later on.

📖 Collide: Series Wrap-Up

We just finished our teaching series Collide, a look at how the ways of Jesus collide with the ways of the world. Over four weeks, we explored how the upside-down values of Jesus' Beatitudes push against what the world says matters, challenging students to live a faith that wasn't meant to blend in.

Ask your student what stuck with them. You might be surprised by what they remember!

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

🧠 New Teaching Series: "Head Games"

We're kicking off a brand new series called Head Games, a biblical and practical look at mental health.

Our students are navigating pressure, comparison, anxiety, and a constant flood of information, and what happens in their minds matters. In this series, we'll look at what God's Word says about our thoughts, our emotions, and our struggles, and we'll talk honestly about practical steps for taking care of our minds.

Please be praying for your student as we walk through these conversations, and don't be surprised if it sparks good discussions at home.

🌎 Senior High Mission Trip: Guatemala

June 26–July 2, 2027

Registration is open for our Senior High Mission Trip to Guatemala!

This is a life-shaping opportunity for students to serve, grow, and see God at work outside their everyday context. We'd love for your student to consider being part of this experience.

👉 For more information and to register, click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Our culture tells teenagers that their feelings are the final word. If you feel it, it must be true. If you feel anxious, you're broken. If you feel invisible, you don't matter. And with a screen in their hands, those messages are only a scroll away at all hours of the day.

But Scripture offers a better word. Our feelings are real, and they matter, but they don't get to be in charge. God invites us to bring our thoughts to Him, to take them captive, and to fill our minds with what is true, honorable, and good (2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8). And to those who are tired, weighed down, or overwhelmed, Jesus says, "Come to me" (Matthew 11:28).

As parents, you can be the voice that says the same thing at home. Struggling doesn't mean your teen's faith is failing. And asking for help, whether from you, a pastor, a coach, or a counselor, is wise, not weak.

Keep asking questions more than giving lectures.

Keep making space for honest conversations.

Keep guiding, not just guarding.

Keep pointing them toward Jesus.

Thank you for partnering with us as we help students become young men and women who know Jesus, love Jesus, and follow Jesus wherever He leads.

We're grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to serve alongside you.

With you and for you,

Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here!

Well, here we go again — backpacks are packed, alarms are set earlier than anyone wants, and a brand new school year is officially underway. There's something about this time of year that carries a unique kind of energy. New classes, new teachers, new schedules, and for a lot of our students, new questions about who they are and where they fit.

At Maple City Students, we're just as excited to kick off a new year with your teens. This year, everything we do — every series, every event, every small group conversation — is going to tie back to one simple, powerful theme: Making the Connection: With God, His Word, His People.

We believe that's what our students need most. Not more information, not more noise, but real connection — to a God who knows and loves them, a Word that grounds them, and a people who walk with them. Our prayer is that this year becomes a season where your son or daughter doesn't just hear about faith, but actually connects with it in a way that changes how they live.

This month's parent resource is meant to help you do the same thing at home — to become a steady, grounding presence for your teen as they navigate a new year of pressure, change, and opportunity.

Here's what's happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“Becoming Your Teen’s Spiritual Anchor”

If you had to guess who has the single greatest influence on whether your teen is still following Jesus ten years from now, who would you name? A youth pastor? A best friend? A powerful moment at camp? Research says it's actually you — studies like the National Study of Youth and Religion and Fuller Youth Institute's Sticky Faith research both point to the same conclusion: how engaged parents are in their own faith at home is the strongest predictor of whether a teen carries that faith into adulthood. Scripture said it first. Deuteronomy 6 and Ephesians 6:4 both hand this job to parents directly, not to the church. You're not the backup plan — you're the main influence.

This month's resource ties directly into what your student is learning in our new "Collide" series — the reality that following Jesus is going to run head-on into a culture pulling a different direction, whether that shows up in a group chat, a locker-room comment, or a scrolling feed. Inside, you'll find:

• Why the research — and Scripture — point to you as the biggest influence on whether your teen's faith lasts

• An honest look at the gap between wanting to talk about faith with your teen and actually doing it

• Three practical ways to be ready when your teen brings a "collision" home, including trading the sit-down conversation for a side-by-side one

• A simple challenge to try with your teen this week

• A prayer to pray over them this month

Our prayer is that this resource helps your home become the steady place your teen lands when their faith collides with everything else they're hearing.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was an awesome way to kick off the new school year!

🎨 Fall Kickoff — Paint Wars!

We kicked off the year with one of our favorite events—Paint Wars!

Students spent the night competing, getting absolutely covered in paint, laughing with friends, and creating some great memories together.

Events like this may look like just a lot of fun (and there was A LOT of fun!), but they serve an important purpose. These experiences give students opportunities to build relationships, feel like they belong, and connect with the people they’ll be doing life with throughout the year.

🏈 MCC Coach Draft Combine

We also had a fun and creative way for students to get to know their Small Group Coaches through our MCC Coach Draft Combine!

Students had the opportunity to learn more about their coaches, discover their personalities and interests, and of course, see which coaches had what it takes to make the roster.

It was a fun way to begin building relationships between students and their Small Group Coaches—relationships that we hope will grow throughout the year.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

🔗 New Year Theme: “Making the Connections”

This year, everything we teach flows out of one theme: Making the Connection: With God, His Word, His People. Every series your student walks through this year is designed to build on that foundation, helping them grow in relationship with God, grounded in Scripture, and connected to a community of people who will walk with them for the long haul.

📖 New Teaching Series: “Collide”

We're kicking off the teaching year with a brand new four-week series called Collide — a journey through the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, where the values of God's kingdom crash into everything the world tells our students to believe.

From the overlooked to the peacemakers, from what we're really hungry for to the call to be salt and light, Jesus' words still hit different — and they're still turning the world upside down. Be praying for your student as these truths collide with the messages they hear everywhere else.

Our hope is that students don't simply learn the Beatitudes—they allow Jesus' words to collide with the way they actually live.

🌎 Senior High Mission Trip — Guatemala

June 26–July 2, 2027

Registration is officially open for our Senior High Mission Trip to Guatemala!

This is a life-shaping opportunity for our students to serve, grow, and see God at work outside their everyday context.

We'd love for your student to consider being part of this experience.

👉 For more information and to register, click HERE.

🏕️ Fall Retreats

Mark your calendars — Fall Retreats are almost here for both Junior High and Senior High!

Junior High: October 9–11 (registration Deadline Oct 3rd)

Senior High: October 2–4 (registration Deadline Sept 24th)

We’re excited to create space for students to step away from the normal pace of life, deepen relationships, and spend intentional time pursuing Jesus together.

Registration opens this week, and these retreats always fill up fast, so keep an eye out for the sign-up link.

👉 Watch for more information and registration details.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Our world tells students that the way up is to be stronger, louder, more impressive, or more in control than everyone around them. Blessed are the powerful. Blessed are the confident. Blessed are the ones who win.

Jesus says something completely different. Blessed are the poor in spirit. Blessed are those who mourn. Blessed are the meek, the merciful, the peacemakers, the ones who get overlooked. It's a collision — and it's supposed to be.

As parents, you get a front-row seat to that collision in your own home this year. Your teen is going to keep hearing the world's version of blessed, and our prayer is that they'll walk away from this series with a different definition rattling around in their heart — one rooted in Jesus, not applause.

Keep pointing them to the Beatitudes over the American Dream.

Keep celebrating character over comparison.

Keep reminding them that the kingdom of God doesn't work like the world does — and that's good news.

Keep pointing them toward Jesus.

Thank you for partnering with us as we help students become young men and women who know Jesus, love Jesus, and follow Jesus wherever He leads — even when it collides with everything else they're told.

We're grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to serve alongside you.

With you and for you,

Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! Summer has officially arrived, and for many families that means a different rhythm of life. School schedules have been replaced with vacations, ball games, camps, late nights, and hopefully a little extra time together. While summer often feels more relaxed, it also creates unique opportunities for influence.

One of the beautiful things about summer is that it gives us more margin for moments that don't always fit into the normal pace of the school year. Conversations in the car, evenings around a fire, fishing trips, family vacations, yard work, and even simple moments around the dinner table can become opportunities to encourage, challenge, and invest in your kids.

As parents, it's easy to underestimate the power of those everyday moments. But often it's not the big speeches that shape our kids most—it's the consistent encouragement, presence, and conversations that happen over time.

This month's parent resource focuses on one of the greatest gifts we can give our sons: confidence rooted in character, responsibility, and identity. Our prayer is that it encourages and equips you as you continue pointing your students toward Jesus this summer.

Here's what's happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“9 Moments That Build A Confident Son”

Every parent wants their son to grow into a young man who is confident, resilient, responsible, and secure in who God created him to be.

The good news is that confidence isn't usually built through one big moment. More often, it's developed through everyday experiences, challenges, responsibilities, and encouragement from trusted adults.

This month's resource highlights nine practical moments that help shape confidence in boys, including:

• Learning a new skill

• Setting and achieving a goal

• Delaying gratification

• Being entrusted with responsibility

• Working hard toward something meaningful

• Speaking truth and conviction

• Trying something new

• Hearing positive things said about them

• Learning to solve problems and overcome challenges

These moments help boys discover what they are capable of while reminding them that their value comes from who they are—not simply what they accomplish.

Our prayer is that this resource gives you practical ways to intentionally encourage and build confidence in your son during the everyday moments of life.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was filled with celebration, connection, and a lot of fun!

🕵️ Mystery Night

Our Mystery Night was a huge success! Students worked together in their groups, following clues, solving challenges, and trying to uncover the mystery before time ran out.

The competition was intense, the teamwork was impressive, and there were plenty of laughs along the way. It was a great night of building relationships and creating memories together.

🎓 Graduation Celebration

One of the highlights of the year was celebrating our graduating seniors and their families.

We enjoyed a meal together, worshiped as a student ministry family, and took time to recognize God's faithfulness throughout each graduate's journey. We are incredibly proud of these students and excited to see how God continues to work in their lives as they step into this next chapter.

🥞 Pancake Fundraiser

Thank you to everyone who supported our Pancake Fundraiser!

We had a fantastic turnout, and the funds raised will help support upcoming mission opportunities for our students. We are so grateful for a church family that consistently invests in the next generation.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

☀️ Summer Schedule Is Here!

Summer is packed with opportunities for students to stay connected, grow in their faith, and have fun together.

Be sure to check out the calendar section so you don't miss any of the upcoming events, mission trips, and activities.

🌎 Mission Trips

Junior High Mission Trip (June 11–13)

There is still time to sign up!

Junior High students will spend three days serving locally through projects in our community and within our MCC family. This is an incredible opportunity for students to put their faith into action while serving others.

To register for the Jr high Mission trip or for more info, Click HERE.

Senior High Mission Trip (June 15–19)

Our Senior High students will be traveling to Columbus, Ohio, where they'll serve through outreach and ministry opportunities while growing deeper in their faith and dependence on God.

Please be praying for both mission teams as they prepare to serve this summer.

🏊 Summer Pool & Pond Days

We're excited for some summer fun with our Pool & Pond Days!

July 15 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Senior High: Shetler Pool

Junior High: Bontreger Pond

July 22 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Senior High: Bontreger Pond

Junior High: Shetler Pool

These are always some of our favorite summer events and a great opportunity for students to invite friends.

Father - Son Milestone Adventure

What does it mean to be a man?

This is one of the most important questions a young man will begin to wrestle with — and we want to help fathers and sons explore it together.

We're excited to invite families to a special milestone experience designed for fathers and sons as boys enter 7th grade. Through guided conversations and shared activities, this journey will help young men step confidently into their teenage years with a stronger sense of identity, purpose, and direction — while giving dads a meaningful opportunity to speak into their sons' lives on topics that matter most.

The experience culminates in a full-day celebration and ceremony that grandparents and mothers are warmly invited to attend.

📋 Registration: Please register both the son and the adult attending together. Registration will open mid June.

💰 Cost: $30 per father-son pair

Are you a single mom without a father figure available? We don't want any young man to miss out. Reach out to Pastor Carmen at carmencunningham@maplecitychapel.org and we'll connect your son with a mentor to walk through the experience alongside him.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Our culture often tells boys that confidence comes from being stronger, faster, more successful, more athletic, or more impressive than everyone else.

But biblical confidence grows differently.

True confidence is built when young men learn that their identity is secure in Christ. It's developed through responsibility, perseverance, character, and faithfulness—not popularity, performance, or comparison.

As parents, one of the greatest gifts you can give your son is helping him see who he is becoming, not just what he is accomplishing.

Keep encouraging effort.

Keep celebrating character.

Keep giving responsibility.

Keep pointing him toward Jesus.

The seeds you are planting today may not always produce immediate results, but God is using your faithfulness in ways you may not yet see.

Thank you for allowing us to partner with you as we help students become young men and women who know Jesus, love Jesus, and follow Jesus wherever He leads.

We're grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to serve alongside you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! As we step into the final stretch of the school year, it can feel like everything is happening all at once. Between finishing assignments, spring sports, end-of-year events, looking ahead to summer, and for some, finishing their high school careers and starting a new chapter of life, students are carrying a unique mix of pressure, excitement, and uncertainty.

For many teens, this season can quietly amplify stress and anxiety. Deadlines are closer, expectations feel higher, and the question of “what’s next?” starts to become more real. In the middle of all that, our role isn’t to eliminate every stressor — it’s to help anchor them in truth, remind them they’re not alone, and point them back to Jesus.

We’re so grateful to partner with you in this. The conversations you’re having at home matter deeply, and God is using your presence in ways you may not even see yet.

Here’s what’s happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“Anxiety and Your Teen”

Anxiety is one of the most common struggles students face today — and for many parents, it can feel difficult to know how to respond.

Is this normal stress, or something more?
Do I step in or give space?
What actually helps… and what doesn’t?

This month’s resource is designed to help you navigate those questions with clarity, wisdom, and confidence.

Inside, you’ll find:

• How to recognize signs of anxiety in your teen
• Practical ways to respond with calm, not panic
• How to create a safe environment for open conversations
• Ways to point your teen toward truth when their thoughts feel overwhelming
• Encouragement for how to support without trying to “fix” everything

Our goal is to equip you to be a steady, safe presence in your teen’s life — especially when their emotions feel anything but steady.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was a meaningful and important time as we leaned into real-life struggles students are facing.

📖 Teaching Series: “My Friend Struggles With…”

In both junior high and senior high, we walked through a series focused on mental health and common struggles students encounter today.

This series wasn’t just for students who personally struggle — it was also for those who have friends or family members who do. Students were challenged to grow in both understanding and compassion, learning how to support others in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus.

We saw students engage thoughtfully, ask honest questions, and begin to see mental health through both a biblical and compassionate lens.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

🕵️ Mystery Night (Jr & Sr High)

We’re excited for a fun event coming up May 13th — MCC Students Mystery Night! Students will work in teams to solve clues, complete challenges, and try to uncover the mystery before time runs out.

🕰 Special Time:
This event will run 6:30pm – 9:30pm (note the different time from our normal Wednesday schedule!)

Make sure your student comes ready for a high-energy, interactive night full of fun and teamwork.

🎓 Graduation Celebration — May 27th

It’s a Maple City tradition to celebrate and honor our graduating seniors and their families!

We’ll kick off the evening with a free dinner at 6:00pm for graduates and their families. Around 7:00pm, we’ll move into a time of worship followed by a special service celebrating our seniors and all God has done in their lives.

If you would like your student to be part of this meaningful night:

👉 Please click HERE to register AND complete the two required forms by May 23rd

This is always a special night you won’t want to miss!

🌎 Junior High Mission Trip — Registration Open

Junior High (June 11–13)

Students will be serving locally through projects in our community and within our MCC family. This is an incredible opportunity for students to live out their faith in practical, impactful ways.

To register for the Jr high Mission trip or for more info, Click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

🌎 Pancake Fundraiser — May 17th

Join us May 17th 8:30am-11:15am for our annual pancake breakfast fundraiser. All the proceeds go to our youth missions trips this year!

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

There’s a subtle pressure many parents feel — especially in seasons like this — to keep everything together, keep their kids on track, and make sure nothing falls apart.

But here’s a truth worth holding onto:

Your role is not to control every outcome.
Your role is to be a consistent presence.

When your teen feels anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure, what they need most isn’t a perfect solution — it’s a steady person.

Someone who doesn’t panic when they panic.
Someone who listens before reacting.
Someone who reminds them what is true when everything feels uncertain.

You don’t have to fix everything to make a difference.
You just have to stay present.

And in those moments — more than you realize — you are reflecting the heart of a God who is near, steady, and faithful.

We’re grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to partner with you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! It’s that time of year where the pace of life starts to feel full in a different way. The school year is winding toward the finish line, calendars are filling up with events, and there’s a mix of anticipation, stress, and excitement in the air for many students.

In seasons like this, emotions tend to rise to the surface. Pressure around grades, friendships, identity, and the future can feel heavier than usual. And while we can’t remove those pressures for our students, we can help anchor them in something steady.

Our heart in Student Ministry is to partner with you in pointing students to Jesus — not just in the big moments, but in the everyday conversations, questions, and challenges they’re walking through right now.

Thank you for the role you play. Your presence, your consistency, and your willingness to engage matter more than you know.

Here’s what’s happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“The Most Important 10 Seconds in Conversations with Kids”

In a world filled with distractions, quick reactions, and surface-level conversations, the first few seconds of how we respond to our kids can shape everything that follows.

This month’s resource focuses on a simple but powerful idea: your initial response matters more than your final answer.

When your student opens up — whether it’s something serious, confusing, or even frustrating — those first 10 seconds communicate something deeper than words:

Am I safe?
Will I be heard?
Am I in trouble?
Do they actually care?

Check out this months resource so your conversations can make a big difference. Over time, they help create a home where students feel safe to be honest — not just about easy things, but about the things that really matter.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was full of growth, honest conversations, and meaningful moments.

📖 Teaching Series: “Into The Deep End”

Our junior high students wrapped up this series focused on the spiritual disciplines — prayer, Scripture, worship, and community. Students were encouraged to move beyond surface-level faith and discover how these practices help them connect with God and others in a real, transformational way.

💬 Senior High Series: “Tough Talks”

In senior high, we finished a powerful series addressing the hard questions students often think about — but rarely ask out loud. Together, we explored:

• How do I handle doubt?
• Where is God when life feels overwhelming?
• How should Christians think about politics?
• What do I do when my faith feels shaky?

It was incredible to see students engage honestly, ask thoughtful questions, and wrestle with their faith in a healthy, biblically grounded environment.

🎶 Student-Led Worship Night

We ended the month with an awesome worship night led completely by students. It was a powerful reminder that God is working in and through this next generation in meaningful ways.

🌎 Jr High 30 Hour Famine

Our junior high students also participated in the 30 Hour Famine, learning about the people of Peru and how they can play a part in making a real, tangible impact for the Gospel. It was a meaningful experience that helped grow both awareness and compassion.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

📖 New Teaching Series: “My Friend Struggles With…”

This month, we’re starting a new series focused on mental health — looking at common struggles students are facing today.

The goal of this series is twofold:

• Help students better understand mental health and mental illness
• Equip them to respond with compassion, wisdom, and support toward others

We want students to be a generation that doesn’t ignore struggles or respond with judgment — but instead reflects the heart of Jesus in how they care for others.

🌎 Junior High Mission Trip — Registration Open

Junior High (June 11–13)

Students will be serving locally through projects in our community and within our MCC family.

This is an incredible opportunity for students to grow in their faith through serving others in practical ways.

To register for the Jr high Mission trip or for more info, Click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

There’s a common message in parenting today that says you need to have the perfect response, the perfect timing, and the perfect words — or you might mess things up.

But that’s not how real influence works.

Your kids don’t need perfection.
They need presence.

They don’t need a perfectly crafted answer every time they open up.
They need to know they can come to you without fear of overreaction or shutdown.

The truth is, the moments that shape your relationship most aren’t always the big, planned conversations — they’re the small, unguarded ones where your response either builds trust… or quietly closes the door.

So when your student speaks, pause.
Lean in.
Stay curious.

Because often, what matters most isn’t what you say next — it’s how you respond first.

We’re grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to partner with you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! As we move further into the semester, life seems to pick up speed quickly. Schedules fill, sports ramp up, homework piles up, and the conversations in our homes start to reflect the deeper questions our students are carrying. This season of the year often brings momentum — but it also brings pressure.

Middle and high school students are constantly navigating identity, belonging, expectations, friendships, and big cultural messages. Our heart in Student Ministry is to come alongside you — not replace you — and help point students toward Jesus as they learn to think biblically, live faithfully, and build a faith that lasts beyond youth group.

Thank you for continuing to partner with us. What happens at church is important — but what happens at home is transformational. We’re grateful to walk this together.

Here’s what’s happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“Discipling Your Gamer Kid With Wisdom And Confidence”

Video games are a huge part of teen culture today. As parents, that can bring questions, concerns, and sometimes conflict. How much is too much? Is it harmful? How do we respond wisely instead of reactively?

This month’s parent newsletter is designed to encourage you: you are not alone—and you don’t have to panic. We’ll walk through practical, biblical ways to parent your gamer kid with both wisdom and relationship in mind.

Inside, you’ll find simple and actionable guidance on:

• Setting healthy boundaries

• Moving from control to curiosity

• Teaching discernment (not just restriction)

• Watching for escapism

• Modeling digital discipleship at home

These aren’t complicated formulas — they’re relational, gospel-shaped principles that help you shepherd your child’s heart in a digital world.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was full of meaningful conversations and big questions.

📖 Teaching Series: “Sex, Love & Dating”

We wrapped up our series taking a biblical look at dating, relationships, and God’s design and purpose for love. Students were challenged to understand that:

• Their value is not found in whether or not they have a boyfriend or girlfriend
• God’s design for relationships is good, purposeful, and protective
• Identity comes before romance — not the other way around

We finished the series with a panel discussion where students submitted honest questions. It was powerful to see them wrestle thoughtfully with real-life topics in a safe and biblically grounded space.

🍕 Pizza Fundraiser

Our pizza fundraiser was a huge success — thank you for supporting our students! Every pizza sold helps fuel mission opportunities, discipleship experiences, and ministry moments that shape lives.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

📘 Junior High Series: “Into the Deep End”

Our junior high students are beginning a new series focused on the spiritual disciplines — prayer, Scripture, worship, and community. We want students to discover that these practices are not boring religious routines, but powerful pathways to connect with God and others in a transformational way.

Going “into the deep end” means moving beyond shallow faith into something personal, rooted, and growing.

💬 Senior High Series: “Tough Talks”

In senior high, we’re launching a series designed to address the hard questions students often think about — but rarely ask out loud.

We’ll tackle questions like:

• How do I handle doubt?
• Where is God when life feels overwhelming?
• How should Christians think about politics?
• What do I do when my faith feels shaky?

Our goal is to create space for honest conversation while grounding students in biblical truth and thoughtful engagement.

🌎 Junior & Senior High Mission Trips — Registration Open

Junior High (June 11–13) will be serving locally through projects in our community and within our MCC family.

To register for the Jr high Mission trip or for more info, Click HERE.

Senior High (June 15–19) will be traveling to inner-city Columbus, Ohio for outreach and service.

🚨 Senior High registration deadline is MARCH 15th!!!!! — don’t wait!

For more information and to register, click HERE.

⏳ Jr High 30 Hour Famine — March 13th-14th

Students will not only learn about hunger, justice, and compassion, they will also join missionaries around the world in helping provide for physical and spiritual needs. For more information and to register, click HERE.  

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Our culture tells our kids that confidence comes from being noticed, admired, or successful. It tells them their worth is fragile — something to be earned, protected, or proven. But the gospel tells a different story. Confidence rooted in Christ doesn’t rise and fall with grades, friends, appearance, or popularity. It’s anchored in being deeply known and deeply loved by God.

As parents, you may not always feel like you’re saying the perfect thing or doing enough — but your steady presence, your words of truth, and your example of faith matter more than you realize. Keep speaking life. Keep pointing them back to who God says they are. Keep trusting that God is working — even when you can’t see it yet. We are grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to partner with you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! If your house has felt a little louder, a little messier, and a lot more “together” lately, you’re not alone. Between cold weather, snow days, and stretches of e-learning, many families have found themselves spending more time at home than planned — navigating school assignments at the kitchen table, cabin fever, and emotions that feel just as unpredictable as the weather.

Seasons like this can be exhausting, but they’re also formative. When routines are disrupted, it often reveals what our kids are carrying — questions about confidence, identity, comparison, and where they really belong. But it also creates opportunities for intentional connection and making memories. Our heart in Student Ministry is to come alongside you — not replace you — and help point students back to Jesus in the middle of ordinary, imperfect, snow-covered days.

Thank you for showing up for your kids, even when it feels tiring and unseen. We’re grateful to partner with you as God continues shaping your students in both big moments and quiet ones.

Here’s what’s happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“Four Everyday Ways to Build Confidence in Your Daughter”

Every parent wants their daughter to grow up confident, secure, and grounded — but in a culture that constantly tells girls they aren’t enough, that confidence can feel fragile and hard to nurture. That’s why this month’s parent resource focuses on simple, everyday habits you can integrate into normal family life that build real, lasting confidence — not performance-based or surface-level confidence, but confidence rooted in identity, worth, and inner strength.

This resource is based on parenting principles that show confidence isn’t built in big speeches or isolated moments — but in the small, consistent, everyday rhythms of life where your daughter experiences encouragement, belonging, and truth.

Why does this matter?

Confidence doesn’t grow in isolation — it grows through relational moments where your daughter feels seen, heard, and affirmed. These everyday practices help shape her internal narrative, moving her from seeking validation from peers or performance to finding value in who God says she is. They also create a foundation where spiritual confidence — trusting God with her identity, purpose, and future — can flourish.

Our prayer is that this resource encourages you and equips you with practical ways you can nurture steady, Christ-centered confidence in your daughter — not by adding pressure or perfection, but by leaning into daily rhythms of connection and truth.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Looking Back month was full of meaningful teaching, service, and connection.📖

Teaching Series: “Storyteller”🍕 Small Group NightWe also hosted a Small Group Night focused on relationship-building, laughter, and fun. Between food, conversation, and shared experiences, it was a powerful reminder that faith grows best in the context of community.💌 Serving Our CommunityOur students also partnered with Isaiah 117 House, writing letters of encouragement and sending Jo Jo’s Pretzels to local DCS caseworkers. It was a simple but meaningful way for students to learn compassion, gratitude, and service.

📚 Teaching Series: “Storyteller”

We wrapped up our series Storyteller, celebrating Jesus as the master storyteller and leaning into the deeper meaning behind His parables. Students were challenged not just to hear the stories, but to live out their implications.

We explored

• Freedom is found in forgiving others (The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant – Matthew 18:23–35)

• Our value is found in who we are, not what we do (The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard – Matthew 20:1–16)

• Commitment is shown through actions, not just words (The Parable of the Two Sons – Matthew 21:28–32; James 2:26)

These teachings invited students to examine their hearts, motivations, and daily choices through the lens of the gospel.

It was a deeply practical series that challenged students to live out their faith in real relationships.

🍕 Small Group Night

We also hosted a Small Group Night focused on relationship-building, laughter, and fun. Between food, conversation, and shared experiences, it was a powerful reminder that faith grows best in the context of community.

💌 Serving Our Community

Our students (along with Jo Jo’s Pretzels) partnered with Isaiah 117 House, writing letters of encouragement and sending Pretzels to local DCS caseworkers. It was a simple but meaningful way for students to learn compassion, gratitude, and service.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

📖 New Teaching Series: “Sex, Love & Dating”

We’re launching a new series that takes a biblical look at dating, relationships, and God’s design for love and intimacy. Students will be reminded that value is not found in whether they have a boyfriend or girlfriend. Look at God’s design for relationships is good, purposeful, and protective. Identity comes before romance — not the other way around.

This series will be honest, age-appropriate, and rooted in Scripture.

🍕 Super Bowl Sunday Pizza Fundraiser

Sunday, February 8th, Students will be selling frozen pizzas all morning, with a pizza buffet available between 2nd & 3rd service. This fundraiser helps support our youth missions fund. No need to pre order, just show up Sunday and grab as many as you would like. — thank you for supporting our students!

👩‍👧 Mother–Daughter Milestone Class

Grade?

This March (March 5, 12, 19, 26) for 6th & 7th grade girls and their mom’s, we have an awesome opportunity to make a lasting impact. This four-week experience is designed to create intentional space for mothers and daughters to grow together. Each week includes teaching, discussion, activities, and a take-home project. Topics include, what it means to be a woman, Following God with “all of me”, Hormones, emotions, and identity. We’re excited to have several women from our MCC community helping teach and lead this meaningful experience.

To register or for more info Click HERE!

🌎 Junior & Senior High Mission Trip Registration – Are Open

Junior High (June 11-13) students will be serving locally on various projects for both the community and for those in need within our MCC family. To register of more info, Click HERE.

Senior High (June 15-19) students will be traveling to inner-city Columbus, Ohio, to serve, learn, and grow through hands-on ministry and outreach.

Details and registration info are available now—this is an incredible opportunity for students to see God at work beyond their comfort zone. For more information and to register, click HERE.

⏳ 30 Hour Famine – Registration Open

Registration is also open for 30 Hour Famine, where students will not only learn about hunger, justice, and compassion, they will also join missionaries around the world in helping provide for physical and spiritual needs. For more information and to register, click HERE.  

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Our culture tells our kids that confidence comes from being noticed, admired, or successful. It tells them their worth is fragile — something to be earned, protected, or proven. But the gospel tells a different story. Confidence rooted in Christ doesn’t rise and fall with grades, friends, appearance, or popularity. It’s anchored in being deeply known and deeply loved by God.

As parents, you may not always feel like you’re saying the perfect thing or doing enough — but your steady presence, your words of truth, and your example of faith matter more than you realize. Keep speaking life. Keep pointing them back to who God says they are. Keep trusting that God is working — even when you can’t see it yet. We are grateful for you, praying for you, and honored to partner with you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! As we step into a brand-new year, I hope your family had a meaningful Christmas and a chance to slow down—at least a little—after the busyness of the holidays. The decorations are coming down, routines are starting back up, and a fresh year brings fresh rhythms, expectations, and opportunities for growth.

The start of a new year is often when we reflect on what matters most and where we want to be intentional moving forward—especially when it comes to our kids. My prayer is that 2026 would be a year where our students continue to grow in faith, character, and confidence in who God has created them to be.

Teen years are full of growth, questions, pressure, and opportunity. Our heart in Student Ministry is to come alongside you—not replace you—to help point your students toward Jesus in the everyday moments where faith is formed. We’re grateful we get to do that together.

So thank you for letting us partner with you as we point students toward Jesus in both the everyday moments and the big conversations that shape their lives.

Here’s what’s happening this month at Maple City Students.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“How Do I Approach the Porn Conversation With My Kids?”

Last month we talked about having “The Talk” with your students. And one of the things we highly recommend is that “The Talk” needs more talking. Talking to your students about sex shouldn’t be a one time thing, but an ongoing thing. So we want to continue that talk and talk about how to have conversations with your students about the topic of pornography.  

For many parents, this feels like one of the hardest conversations to start. You may be wondering:

• How much should I say?

• What if I say the wrong thing?

• What if my child has already been exposed?

You are not alone.

This month’s parent resource is designed to help you approach the conversation with clarity, confidence, and grace, rather than fear or panic. It acknowledges the reality of the digital world our kids live in while grounding parents in biblical truth, practical wisdom, and hope.

Inside this resource, you’ll find:

• Why silence is far riskier than starting the conversation

• The dangers of Pornography and it’s effects on the brain

• How to talk about pornography without shaming or lecturing

• Practical language you can actually use with your kids

• How to keep the conversation ongoing—not just a one-time talk

• Helpful tools, safeguards, and additional parent resources

Our prayer is that this equips you to be a calm, trusted, and gospel-centered voice in your student’s life—especially in a world that is already speaking loudly.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

December was a meaningful month full of growth, service, and celebration.

📚 Teaching Series: “Fighting Fair”

We wrapped up our series Fighting Fair, where students learned how to handle conflict in ways that honor God. Together, we explored:

• Responding instead of reacting

• Speaking truth with love

• Pursuing reconciliation

• Trusting God even when conflict feels unresolved

• Why unity is important and worth fighting for

It was a deeply practical series that challenged students to live out their faith in real relationships.

🎄 Student Ministry Christmas Party

Our Christmas party was a highlight of the season and a beautiful example of students living out their faith through service.

• Senior High students went Christmas caroling and delivered cookies they made to elderly and shut-ins within our congregation.

• Junior High students went shopping to buy Christmas gifts for families in need with funds that they raised.

It was powerful to watch students choose generosity, compassion, and joy during a season that often focuses inward.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

📖 New Teaching Series: “Storyteller”

We’re launching a brand-new series called Storyteller, celebrating Jesus as the master storyteller.

In this series, students will take a closer look at three lesser-known parables and uncover the deeper lessons Jesus intended—truths that still apply to their lives today. This series will challenge students to listen carefully, think deeply, and live differently. We will be looking at:

• Freedom is found in forgiving others (The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant - Matthew 18:23-35)

• Our value is found in WHO WE ARE, not what we do (The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard - Matthew 20:1-16)

• Commitment is shown through actions, not just words (The Parable of the Two Sons - Matthew 21:28-32, James 2:26)

🌎 Senior High Mission Trip Registration –OPENS THIS WEEK

Senior High students will be traveling to inner-city Columbus, Ohio, to serve, learn, and grow through hands-on ministry and outreach.

Details and registration info are available now—this is an incredible opportunity for students to see God at work beyond their comfort zone. For more information and to register, click HERE.

⏳ 30 Hour Famine – Registration Open

Registration is also open for 30 Hour Famine, where students will not only learn about hunger, justice, and compassion, they will also join missionaries around the world in helping provide for physical and spiritual needs. For more information and to register, click HERE.  

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Let’s be honest—conversations about sex, pornography, conflict, faith, and identity can feel overwhelming. You may wonder if you’re equipped enough, informed enough, or present enough.

Here’s the truth we want you to hear clearly:

You do not need to be a perfect parent to be a powerful influence.

Your consistency matters.
Your willingness to engage matters.
Your voice matters more than any screen, peer, or cultural message.

Even when your teen seems disengaged…
Even when conversations feel awkward or unfinished…
Even when you’re unsure how much is sinking in…

God is still working through you.

Don’t let fear convince you to stay silent.
Don’t let discomfort keep you from starting conversations that shape eternity.

We are for you, we are praying for you, and we are honored to partner with you as you shepherd your students toward Jesus.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! As we head into December—a season full of lights, traditions, and (let’s be honest) a whole lot of sugar—I’m reminded how important it is to pause and reflect. The holidays bring excitement, but they can also bring pressure, busyness, and mixed emotions for our teens.

That’s why I’m so grateful we get to partner together to guide our students toward Jesus—not just in the big holiday moments, but in the everyday conversations and decisions that shape their character and faith. Thanks for showing up, praying, and walking this journey with us. You matter more than you know.

Let’s jump into what’s new this month!

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

“Am I Too Late to Talk With My Teenager About Sex?”

If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I have brought this up sooner?” or “Is it too late to have these conversations?”—you’re not alone. Many parents feel unsure, nervous, or even embarrassed when it comes to talking with their teen about sex, relationships, and God’s design for intimacy.

This month’s resource is designed to encourage you, equip you, and remind you of this simple truth:

👉 It’s never too late to point your teen to God’s plan and design.

Inside this resource, you’ll find:

• When is a good age to start having “the talk”?

• What to do if you feel like you “missed the window”

• Additional Resources regarding safeguards and parent controls  

• As well as links to our Parent Training Seminar “Adolescence Sexuality & Parenting”  

• Practical tips for creating an ongoing, healthy dialogue

Our hope is to empower you to guide your teen with grace, biblical truth, and confidence—no matter where you’re starting from.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

November was a meaningful and memorable month here at Maple City Students!

📚 Teaching Series: “Fighting Fair”

We launched our new series on biblical conflict—how to handle disagreements in ways that honor God and reflect the heart of Jesus. Students learned that conflict isn’t something to fear or avoid, but something to approach with humility, wisdom, and love.
We’ll be continuing this series throughout December.

🏕 Jr High Fall Retreat — “Unseen”

Our Jr High Fall Retreat was an incredible weekend. The theme, Unseen, was based on 2 Corinthians 4:16–18, focusing on the truth that where we fix our eyes shapes the direction of our lives.
Students were challenged to look beyond the temporary things of this world and set their focus on God’s Kingdom—what is eternal, trustworthy, and true.

🙌 Worship Experience Night

We also hosted a worship experience night where students had multiple opportunities to express gratitude in creative, meaningful ways. It was powerful to watch students engage with God personally and sincerely.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

🎄 Continuing Teaching Series: “Fighting Fair”

We will continue learning how to navigate conflict biblically by:

• pursuing reconciliation

• confronting with love

• living at peace with others

• trusting Jesus even when things stay unresolved

It’s been an important, practical series—and we’re excited to see how God continues to shape our students through it.

🍪 Christmas Cookie Decorating — December 14

After 3rd Service | Teen Haven
Join us for a fun time decorating cookies and hanging out as we head into Christmas week!

🎉 Christmas Party — December 17 @ 6pm

Food will be provided and students will be heading off site. Sr high will be riding with their Small Group Coaches, other parents or others who all have background checks. Students will not be allowed to drive during this event. Jr high will be taking a bus to WalMart for our shopping and return to Maple City Chapel for the rest of the night. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to Pastor Jordan.  

Sr High:

• Going Christmas caroling

• Delivering cookies to bless Elderly or Shut ins

Jr High:

• Shopping for families in need

• White Elephant Gift Exchange ($5–10 gift, already wrapped)

💛 Students can help support local families in need
If they’d like to give toward the shopping night, they can turn in any amount to their small group leader or to Pastor Jordan.

👉 Note: Students do not need to bring a gift to attend the Christmas party. Everyone is welcome!

🎉 No Youth — December 24th & 31st

Just a reminder that there will be no youth programming December 24th or December 31st due to the holidays. We will be back January 7th.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Parents, I know conversations about conflict, emotions, relationships, and even topics like sex can feel overwhelming at times. You may wonder if you’re saying the right things—or saying enough.
But please hear this:

Your voice is powerful. Your presence matters. Your influence is irreplaceable.

Even when your teen acts uninterested…
Even when conversations feel awkward…
Even when you feel late to the game…

God is working through you.

Keep asking the questions.
Keep showing grace.
Keep creating space for conversations that matter.
And keep trusting that the seeds you’re planting—big and small—are taking root in God’s perfect timing.

You’re doing better than you think, and we are honored to walk alongside you.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here! Can you believe we’re already heading into November? The fall season always seems to fly by, but I love how it brings opportunities for reflection, growth, and connection — both for our students and for us as parents. As leaves change and schedules fill up, it’s a great reminder that our faith isn’t just built in big moments, but in the quiet daily rhythms that shape who we’re becoming.

I’m so thankful to partner with you in walking alongside your students as they grow in faith, character, and leadership. Let’s jump into what’s been happening and what’s ahead!

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

"Helping Your Teen Build Spiritual Disciplines"

One of the most important ways to nurture your teen’s faith is by helping them understand and practice spiritual disciplines — those daily habits that draw us closer to God and strengthen our walk with Him.

This month’s resource breaks down what spiritual disciplines are and how to help your teen integrate them naturally into their everyday life. It’s not about adding more to their to-do list, but about helping them see that things like prayer, Scripture reading, journaling, worship, and serving can become part of their normal rhythm — not just something they “fit in” when they have time.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month, we wrapped up our series “All the Feels” — a powerful journey helping students understand that emotions are a normal part of life, but how we navigate them matters deeply.

We learned:

• Anger can motivate us to do good when controlled — but unchecked, it can lead to hatred and bitterness.

• Love builds others up and reflects Christ, while lust objectifies and tears down.

• Joy lifts and celebrates others, while pride isolates.

• Sadness honors loss and leads to healing, while shame traps us in lies about our worth.

We also capped off the month with our epic “All Small Group Night”! Each small group planned their own night of community and connection — some made crafts, some baked pretzels at Jojo’s in Goshen, others went bowling or hosted karaoke nights. It was incredible to see students laughing, bonding, and growing in trust together.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

Fall Retreat Deadline!!!

The deadline for the Jr High Fall Retreat is NOVEMBER 6th!!! You can click HERE to register.

The Jr High Fall Retreat will be November 14th-16th.

This is one of the best weekends of the year for students to disconnect from distractions and connect with God, friends, and leaders. Don’t miss out — sign up before the deadline!

Upcoming teaching series:

“Fighting Fair”.

Conflict happens — but what if following Jesus changes how we handle it?

This new series will help students see that being a Christ-follower doesn’t mean avoiding conflict; it means pursuing peace and reconciliation in a healthy, God-honoring way.

We’ll explore:

• How to pursue reconciliation because Jesus first pursued us

• What it means to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us

• When and how to lovingly confront someone

• And ultimately, how to trust that even when conflict doesn’t resolve — Jesus is still good!

This series is going to be both practical and powerful, and we can’t wait to see how God uses it to shape our students.

👉 For more information regarding the Fall Retreats, click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Parents — I know how easy it is to feel stretched thin or wonder if what you’re doing is making a difference. But don’t underestimate the quiet influence you have. Every prayer whispered, every encouraging word, every moment you point your teen back to Jesus — it all matters.

Faith isn’t built in a single moment; it’s formed over time through love, consistency, and grace. So keep showing up, keep praying, and keep modeling the kind of faith you hope to see in your student. God is at work in ways you may not see yet — and He’s using you to make a lasting impact.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here—what a month it’s been! As fall settles in, I’m reminded that this season isn’t just about football games and pumpkin spiced…eh…everything, it’s also a time for deepening rhythms, building community, and helping our students discover what it really means to walk with Jesus. I’m so grateful to partner with you in discipling your teens through all the ups and downs of this school year.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

"How To Disciple Your Teen To The Heart Of Christ"

One of the most powerful influences in a teenager’s faith isn’t youth group, retreats, or even their peers—it’s you! Parents, you play the primary role in helping your teen know, love, and follow Jesus. And while that sounds like a huge responsibility, we want you to know that you are not alone. We want to be able to help equip you to thrive in your role as your students discipler. That is why we take the time to bring you these resources each month.  

Often it comes down to simple, everyday practices that create a foundation for faith. Discipling your teenager goes deeper than just getting them to youth group or reminding them to read their Bible—it’s about helping them connect their everyday life to Jesus. This month’s resource will walk you through practical ways to disciple your teen through prayer, personal time with the Lord, and asking them questions about their walk with Jesus. You do not want to miss this one.

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

Last month was full of laughter, learning and memories.

We wrapped up our Jr high series “school survival kit” looking at not just how to survive the jr high years, but how to thrive in them. In Sr high we finished looking at the life of Micah and the themes of judgment, restoration, and justice and how that looks in our lives today.

We capped things off with an epic Small Group Family Feud Night, where the winning small groups not only got to choose a “special blended treat” for their small group coach, each person in the small group also got to pie Steve Olsen and Pastor Jordan. They got covered!!!

God is already moving in incredible ways, and we’re excited for the momentum ahead.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

Fall Retreat Deadlines!!!

The deadline for registration for the Sr High Fall Retreat is OCTOBER 2nd!!! You can click HERE to register.

The Sr High Fall Retreat will be October 10th-12th.

The deadline for the Jr High Fall Retreat is NOVEMBER 6th!!! You can click HERE to register.

The Jr High Fall Retreat will be November 14th-16th.

Upcoming teaching series:

“All The Feels”.

This series gives students permission to experience and express their emotions in healthy, God honoring ways—without letting those emotions control them or hurt their community. We will look at:

• Anger motivates, but hatred consumes

• Love builds up, but lust objectifies

• Joy celebrates, but pride excludes

• Sadness honors loss, but shame condemns

It’s going to be honest, practical, and deeply needed for students navigating their emotional world.

👉 For more information regarding the Fall Retreats, click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

Parenting teens can sometimes feel like an uphill climb—you’re pouring into them, but not always seeing the fruit right away. Remember: faith grows in layers and seasons. Some days will be breakthroughs, others will feel like planting seeds in rocky soil. Don’t lose heart. Every prayer, every car ride conversation, every moment you model grace is shaping your teen in ways you can’t fully see yet. You’re not parenting alone—God is with you, and we’re with you too.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here—what a start to the school year! The energy, the excitement, and the new opportunities to invest in your students are already making this fall a special one. We’re praying this season is full of growth, connection, and God moments for your family.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

"After School Conversation Starters"

The drive home or the dinner table can be some of the best moments to connect with your student. However, I’m sure for a lot of you, getting more than a one word answer is a constant struggle. This months resource will hopefully help you get beyond the simple “yes & no’s” and get more depth and life giving conversations that point your student towards Christ. Or at least get a little more information out of them!

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

We had a great kick off to the new school year!

7Th Grade Preview: gave our incoming students and parents a chance to feel at home, meet the team, catch the vision for what’s ahead and to ask their questions regarding student ministries.

Fall Kickoff: Paint wars was messy, wild, and so much fun! Our students went all in and started the year with laughter and a bunch of colorful memories.

Small Group Kickoff: Helped students connect with their small group Coaches and their peers, setting the tone for the year that will hopefully continue in growth in relationships and faith.

We are so thankful for what God is already doing in and through your students and are excited for what’s to come.

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

Upcoming teaching series: In Jr High we will be going through a series called “School Survival Kit” looking at 3 important survival tactics to help them not just survive Jr High, but THRIVE as a teenager in the biggest arena of their lives. We will be looking at topics such as the importance of picking the right friends, running from temptations, and looking to God’s Word for our direction.

In Sr High we will be going through a series looking at the life of Micah and the themes of judgment, restoration, and justice.  

🍂 Fall Retreat

Jr high - Nov 14-16

Sr high - Oct 10-12

These weekends are some of the most impactful times in our ministry year. Students step away from distractions, experience God’s presence, and build lasting friendships. You don’t want your student to miss this! Space is limited. Deadline for registration is Oct 2nd (Sr High) Nov 6th (Jr high)

👉 For more information regarding the Fall Retreats, click HERE.

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

The beginning of the school year can feel like a sprint—schedules fill quickly, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rush, But remember: discipleship often happens in the small, ordinary moments. A word of encouragement, a prayer before bed, a quick check in after practice—these simple seeds can grow into lifelong faith.

Keep planting. Keep showing up. God is at work in ways you may not even see yet.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here—welcoming you to a brand new school year with Maple City Student Ministries!

As the backpacks come out and routines reset, we’re excited to launch into another year of discipleship, growth, and unforgettable moments together. Whether your student is brand new to youth group or entering their final year, we believe God has incredible things in store this fall—and we’re honored to walk alongside your family in it.

📘 This Month’s Parent Resource:

"How to Parent Athletes"

Whether your student plays varsity, club, or just loves competition, this month’s resource is packed with practical tools and Gospel-centered perspective to help you parent through the sports season with purpose. You'll find:

🏈 5 Gospel-Centered “Plays” for Parenting Your Athlete
💬 Healthy Conversation Starters for Athletes
🏟️ 10 Tips for Being a Gospel-Centered Spectator
🙌 Identity in Christ Statements for Athletes
📄 A Sample (and Blank) Family Athletic Commitment

👉 To access this month’s Parent Resource, click HERE.
👉 Want past resources? Click HERE.

👀 Looking Back:

What a Summer!

This summer was full of powerful moments:

💥 Our Junior High and Senior High Mission Trips were a huge success! Our Jr highers served the South Bend area with S.O.S. Ministries with various projects and our Sr highers were in Puerto Rico where they served served with passion and came home with stories of how God moved in and through them.
🎶 Our student worship team led at the Elkhart County Fair for “Youth Night”. It was awesome to see our student lifting up Jesus in a public space and blessing so many!

📅 Upcoming Highlights:

Here’s what’s coming this fall that you and your student won’t want to miss:

🎉 7th Grade Preview Night
Helping new students and families feel at home. A night of fun, info, connection, and (shhh) Ice Cream for the parents!

🎨 Paint Wars
Back and messier than ever. A fan-favorite night of wild (and washable) color chaos. Be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting painted and a white shirt. A towel and change of clothes is highly recommended.

🤝 Small Group Kickoff
We’re launching a new season of small groups August 20th—intentional spaces where students can be known, encouraged, and challenged in their faith.

🍂 Fall Retreat
One of the biggest spiritual catalysts of the year. Mark your calendars—it’s going to be powerful!

Jr high - Nov 14-16

Sr high - Oct 10-12

👉 For the updated calendar, click HERE.

👉 To view upcoming events, click HERE.

💬 Final Words of Encouragement:

The school year brings fresh opportunity—new friends, new challenges, new moments to grow.

Amid the busy schedules, long practices, and late-night homework, don’t underestimate the power of presence. Keep showing up. Keep asking good questions. Keep pointing your student to Jesus—not just with your words, but with your tone, your time, and your trust in Him.

We believe in your student. We believe in your family. And we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

Let’s keep pressing on—together.

With you and for you,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here with your summer edition of the parent newsletter—your quick connection point to what’s happening in Student Ministries, what’s on the horizon, and how we can keep partnering together to help your student follow Jesus this summer.

Before We Dive In: This Month’s Parent Resource

With the summer comes endless options of activities and things to compete with family time. In this month’s parent resource, we want to help you develop a Family Discipleship Guide to intentionally make the most of the time you have this summer and lead your family in consistent and meaningful discipleship conversations. Whether this is your first time leading your family in discipleship or you have been doing it for years, we pray this resource sparks meaningful connections as you grow in your understanding of God’s love and faithfulness toward your family.

👉 To see this months Parent Resource, click HERE.

👉 Need more support? View past resources HERE.

Looking Back: Graduation + Mission Mindset

May was packed! We celebrated our graduating seniors with meals, prayer, and some really meaningful moments as we launched them into their next chapter. It was powerful to see how our church wrapped around them with love, wisdom, and support.

We also wrapped up registration for our Junior High Missions Weekend and got a glimpse of how our students are ready to serve and lead. It’s incredible watching their faith come alive when it moves from theory to action!

Summer Schedule Highlights ☀️

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up this summer for Maple City Students:

📍Youth Worship Night: June 18th
Join us for a night of worship lead by our student worship team. 7pm-9pm. All are welcome.

📍No Regular Youth Group on June 11 & 25 and July 23
Due to various events like VBS, Mission Trips, and Fair week. We will not be meeting these Wednesday nights.

📍Water Wars: July 2nd

Come ready for a fun night of water based games! Dress accordingly.  

📍Pond Day at the Bontreger’s:
Join us for a day at the Bontreger’s Pond (14193 CR 36 Goshen IN) for swimming, yard games, and hang out. Bring a snack to share.

Jr High will be meeting at the Bontreger’s July 9th 6-8pm.

Sr High will be meeting at the Bontreger’s July 16th 6-8pm.

🗓️ Full Summer Calendar:
Want all the dates and details in one place? Click HERE

A Final Word of Encouragement

Summer isn’t just for breaks—it’s for breakthroughs.

These next few months are full of opportunity: spontaneous conversations, slower rhythms, and space to see what God is doing beneath the surface. Stay present. Stay prayerful. Keep creating safe spaces for your teen to talk, question, and grow. Even when it feels like they’re not listening, they’re watching—and what you model matters.

We’re with you. We’re for you. Let’s keep pointing our students to Jesus—together!

Blessings,
Pastor Jordan

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here with this month’s parent newsletter—your quick connection point to what’s happening in Student Ministries, what’s on the horizon, and how we can keep walking alongside your students together.

Before we jump in, I want to highlight this month’s Parent Resource. Our kids face doubts and fears and ask hard questions? Are you making your home a safe place for hard conversations? Can your kids come into your house knowing that no matter what they do or say, you will love them? We want our kids to come to us on their best days and their worst. In order to create a safe home, we must create a culture of safety. For 5 ways to create a safe home for hard conversations click HERE.

👉 View past resources HERE

Looking Back: Me, Myself, and iPhone

Last month, we took on the challenge of navigating technology and screen time—a topic that hits home for nearly every student (and parent!). Our series, Me, Myself, and iPhone, helped students reflect on how they use their screens, how those habits affect their identity and relationships, and how they can use tech in a way that honors God. We dug into tough but important questions like:

• Are we addicted to our screens?

• What does my digital footprint say about me?

• How do I stand for Christ in an online world?

These conversations sparked some great small group discussions and personal reflection. I encourage you to ask your student what they learned—maybe even ask them what kind of "digital disciple" they want to be.

Upcoming Events

Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser: May 4th

Join us on Sunday, May 4, between services for a delicious pancake breakfast! Enjoy a warm meal while supporting our Senior High mission trip to Puerto Rico—donations are welcome and appreciated.

Graduation Recognition: May 28th & June 1st

Marking the end of the school year, it's Maple City tradition to honor our graduating seniors and their families with a night devoted to celebration! This year we want to honor our graduates not just on Wednesday, May 28th, but also on Sunday, June 1st in a unique and meaningful way.

On Wednesday May 28th, we will have a free dinner for our graduates and their families, a time of worship, and a service of celebration at 6 PM.

On Sunday, June 1st, we are going to have a time of prayer and commissioning for our graduates, as well as, a fun and meaningful way for our church to encourage and support them on their journey.  

If you would like to be part of Either or Both, you can register HERE. If you are not able to attend either date, we still want to honor you! If you would still like to be honored please fill out THIS FORM before May 23rd! Please also send a Picture (In Portrait view) to Pastor Jordan at jordanpearson@maplecitychapel.org

June 12th-14th: Jr High Missions Weekend

Our Jr High students will be serving locally for their mission experience! They will be serving the local community with a variety of projects depending on the current needs. Examples could be: painting, landscaping and yard clean up, helping serve food, just to name a few.

We will be staying at Bethel University in Mishawaka and the weekend will be a time where the students are challenged, equipped, empowered, and deepened in their faith as they grow in their personal walk with Jesus. The cost is $125, before May 13th, or $150 between May 13th and May 26th. The cost covers housing, meals, session guests, transportation, 2 shirts, project supplies, etc. For more information and how to register, click HERE

🗓️ Check out our Student Ministry Calendar [HERE]
You’ll find key dates, ongoing events, and everything you need to stay in the loop.

Final Word of Encouragement

Keep Going – You’re Crushing It

Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart, and in case no one’s told you lately: you’re doing better than you think. Your love, presence, and prayers matter. We see it, and more importantly, your students feel it—even if their current love language is eye-rolls. You are the greatest spiritual influence in your student’s life. What you model, how you listen, and how you love—it all matters more than you know.

If you ever want to talk, pray, or just need to know you’re not in this alone, we are here for you. We’re honored to partner with you as you help your student follow Jesus in this season of life.

Let’s keep pointing our students to Jesus—together.

Blessings,

Jordan

Maple City Parents: Newsletter Vol 5

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here again with another parent newsletter. As we step into a new month, I want to take a moment to update you on what we’ve been covering in Student Ministries and what’s coming next. But before I do, I want to quickly highlight our parent resource on technology just below this newsletter. A lot of useful stuff you don’t want to miss. So check it out HERE!

Looking Back: Relationship Goals

Throughout last month, we dove into our “Relationship Goals” series, where we explored what it means to build healthy, God-honoring relationships in a world that often distorts His original design. We challenged students to love others like Jesus, understand God’s purpose for relationships, and evaluate how they navigate friendships and dating. I encourage you to continue these conversations with your students at home as these topics are extremely important and cannot be talked about enough.

Looking Ahead: My, Myself, and iPhone

This month, we’re tackling a topic that affects every student today—technology. Our new series, “My, Myself, and iPhone” will help students reflect on their screen habits and how they can use technology wisely. We’ll cover questions like:

• Are we addicted to our screens?

• What screens are right for me?

• How does what we see online affect us?

• Who am I in a world of screens?

• How can I use my platform for Christ?

Technology isn’t going anywhere, so our goal is to equip students to navigate it with wisdom and purpose rather than being consumed by it.

Upcoming Events

• Jr High 30 Hr Famine: March 14-15 our annual discipleship opportunity for our JrHi students to learn and raise awareness for World Hunger, sponsored by World Vision. They will learn about other struggling nations, play fun and interactive games, and fast in support of those who go hungry. The event is free and you can sign up HERE.

• Jr High Bake Sale Fundraiser: Sunday March 16th will be our Jr High Bake Sale. After both services we will be having all kinds of baked goods to raise money for the Jr High Mission Weekend this summer. If you would like to help provide some baked goods for the fundraiser, you can sign up HERE!

• Silent Disco: Wednesday March 26th will be a special event night for both Jr & Sr high. Event is free and no need to sign up.

• Worship Night: March 21st 7pm Salt & Light Co from Rosedale Bible College will be having a night of worship and testimony at Maple City in Teen Haven. All ages are welcome.  

Don’t miss our Student Ministry Calendar included below or click HERE! You’ll find all the details about upcoming events and opportunities for your student to get connected. You can also click HERE for a full list of upcoming events.

Parent Resource of the Month

To support you in guiding your student through the world of technology, in our Parent Resource this month we’re sharing a helpful video with simple practical tips on setting healthy boundaries and encouraging wise screen habits. This resource will give you tools to start meaningful conversations and create a tech environment that honors God in your home. There is also links to great technology resources, one in particular I think is very helpful, “Our Pact”. Be sure to check it out below! To view this resource click HERE. To view past resources click HERE.

Keep Pressing On!

Parenting in today’s world isn’t easy, but you are making a difference. Your influence matters more than you know, and we are so grateful to partner with you in pointing students to Christ. If you ever have questions, need support, or want to talk through any of these topics, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are in this together!

Looking forward to an amazing month ahead!

Blessings,

Jordan

Maple City Parents: Newsletter Vol 4

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here. As we are stepping into the second month of the new year, I’m excited about all the ways God will move in the lives of our students in 2025. It’s been a great start so far, and I wanted to take a moment to share what’s been happening in our student ministry and what’s ahead for February.

Last month, we wrapped up our series “Hide & Seek,” We all tend to hide parts of ourselves at times, whether it’s our past, struggles, or even our true selves, often out of fear or a desire to fit in. We call these “masks,” and we talked about how we don’t need to hide behind “I’m fine” or try to go through life pretending everything is okay. Instead, we encouraged our students to embrace honesty and vulnerability, trusting that God meets us in our weaknesses and pain.

As we move into February we’ll be diving into a brand-new series called “Relationship Goals”. This series is all about building healthy, God-honoring relationships. We’ll be answering big questions like:

• What does it mean to love others like Jesus?

• What is God’s purpose and design for relationships?

• How can we navigate a world that often distorts God’s original design?

As we tackle important topics like love, dating, and sex, this series may present great opportunities for you as parents to have meaningful and intentional conversations. These are conversations that, while sometimes awkward or challenging, are so crucial for shaping their understanding of purity, love, and God’s design for relationships.

In this newsletter’s Parent Resource, we are focusing on having conversations with your child about sexual purity. I hope this tool gives you confidence and encouragement to engage with your child about this vital topic.

Lastly, don’t miss our February Student Ministry Calendar included below! You’ll find all the details about upcoming events and opportunities for your student to get connected. You can also click here for a full list of upcoming events.

As always, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if there are specific ways we can come alongside you as you parent your student. It’s an honor to partner with you in helping your child grow in faith, character, and love for Jesus.

Blessings,

Jordan  

Maple City Parents: Newsletter Vol 3

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here. Can’t believe we are already in December and the new year will be hear before we know it. We are excited to see what God has for us as we look ahead and so thankful for how He has been moving as we look back. We finished up our series “He Speaks” as we looked at how God speaks to us, practical ways on how we can know/discern God’s voice over the other voices in your life, and what are the barriers in our lives that prevent us from hearing God. We also had a listening experience night where students spent time seeking and listening for God’s voice.

As we step into the whirlwind of the Christmas season, it can feel as if time is moving faster than ever. Between work obligations, school assignments, sports, practices, events, and the hustle of holiday preparations, life becomes a blur. In the midst of all this busyness, we want to encourage you to embrace this season as an opportunity for intentional and meaningful connection with your family. Christmas is a special opportunity to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and His love for us, while also creating lasting memories with your student. We know life can get overwhelming, and the sheer number of things to do can make it challenging to plan meaningful moments. That’s why I write these newsletters, to support you. My goal is to make your life a little easier by offering thoughtful, practical, and simple ideas to help you engage with your student during this season. Let’s lean into faith, family, and meaningful connection, so this season becomes more than just busy—it becomes beautiful. We are cheering you on, praying for your family, and are here to support you every step of the way.

This newsletter’s Parent Resources come with some extra gifts, specially designed to support you during this busy and meaningful season! First, we’re offering practical tips to help you navigate moments when your student is hurting. Pain and disappointment are a part of life, and how you come alongside your student during these times can make a significant difference. Additionally, we’ve included a Daily Family Advent Devotional to help your family focus on the heart of the Christmas season. This simple resource is designed to foster meaningful conversations grounding your family in the hope and joy of Christ. To make your holiday time even more special, we’re also sharing with you, Christmas Conversation Cards. These are fun and engaging tools to spark discussions that point your family toward faith and connection amidst the festivities. I hope these resources will bless your family and provide practical ways to grow closer to God and each other during this season of joy and gratitude.

Also scroll down to see our Student Ministry Calendar for December and January. You can also click here for upcoming event details. As always let me know if you have any questions and any ways in which we can help come alongside you as parents.

Blessings,

Jordan  

Hey Maple City Parents,

Pastor Jordan here. As you are now hopefully settling into the routine of the new school year, I wanted to take the time to fill you in on what has been going on as well as help you be intentional with the limited time you have with your student between work, school, homework, practices, etc. In the midst of the hectic schedules, I want to encourage you to take time and focus on the important things and be present with your kids. Look for those moments where you can be intentional with them.

Now I know sometimes we don’t have the mental capacity to add one more thing that requires intentional thought no matter how important it may be. That is why I am writing these newsletters. I want to help take some of the extra thinking off your plate and give you some already thought out ideas and resources that are simple, helpful and practical that you can implement in your home today.

Today our resource is aimed at helping your time at the dinner table to spark authentic and meaningful conversations. Simple conversation starters with follow up questions that get beyond the simple “yes” and “no” responses we all dread. So scroll down and see today’s recourse from restorethetable.org.

Also scroll down to see our Student Ministry Calendar for October and November as well as what we have been teaching and where we are going. You can also click here for upcoming event details. As always let me know if you have any questions and any ways in which we can help come alongside you as parents.

Blessings,

Jordan  

Pastor Jordan here.

Wow, it’s hard to believe that summer is almost over and the new school year is just around the corner. I’m sure for some of you it went by way too fast. Maybe even for some, it has gone by so fast that you are scrambling to get things ready for the fall. In the midst of all the hectic schedules I want to encourage you to take time and focus on the important things, be present with your kids, and look for those moments where you can be intentional with them.

One of the things that I want to do is give you helpful, simple, and practical resources for you to use in the home. I know when you are already busy with work, running a home, being a spouse, and being the family’s personal Uber driver, sometimes we don’t have the mental capacity to add one more thing that requires intentional thought even though we know it may be important. So I want to help take some of the extra thinking off your plate and give you some already thought out ideas that you can implement in your home.

So if you scroll down you will see the resource I have for you today, practical ways to help raise Kind Kids! Because in a world full of hostility and division, where kindness has been on a steady decline, let us step up and be different from the world and show the kindness of Christ in our everyday behavior.

Also at the bottom is our Student Ministry Calendar for August and September. You can also click here for upcoming event details. As always let me know if you have any questions and any ways in which we can help come alongside you as parents.

Blessings,

Jordan   

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