Preteens on the Move

Do you remember what it was like to be a preteen? That difficult stage of being not quite a kid but also not quite a teenager? Just trying to figure out where you fit? At New Hope, we recognize the struggle is real, and that preteens are at a unique stage of life, not just physically, but spiritually as well.

That's why we have created a new, set apart space just for preteens. Our preteens (4th-5th grade) moved into their new space a few Sundays ago, and WOW has it been a hit! Kat Duprey, one of the Preteen Leaders, shared how the kids are enjoying the relaxed nature of this new space. "The preteens just settled right in, enjoying games and food and each other. We even saw smiles from some introverts."

With such a unique transition happening in their lives, preteens need a place where caring people understand their unique needs and can walk with them as they discover what their next faith step is. "I'm so excited to have this new space for our preteens. It took us three months to update the building and it was a pure labor of love," said Kids Pastor, Cathy Smith.

The preteens have moved to the Portable building, located across from the Children's Building. Teams have worked to prep the space to feel homey and welcoming. "In making this move, we've already seen some preteens return to Sundays whom we haven't had join us in a while, which is very exciting."

The Preteen Ministry at New Hope is one part of the overall family discipleship program for infants-12th grade. As kids grow into new ministries, they will expand on their knowledge and make connections from what the Bible teaches to their personal lives.

"We have been working on bridging the gap and making transitions fun and something our kids look forward to," shared Cathy. Her vision for children at New Hope is for them to smoothly transition from ministry to ministry to become fully devoted followers of Jesus, owning their own faith and not their parents'.