Fall Youth Hub
What’s Coming Up
► Indicates clickable link.
September 13 – First Day of Shawnee Confirmation ►
September 13 – High School Youth Group at Mission ►
September 16 – First Day of Mission Confirmation ►
September 20 – High School Youth Group at Shawnee ►
September 20 – Middle School Kickoff Event at Tap Ins ►
September 27 – High School Youth Group at Mission ►
Looking Ahead
October 25 – Trunk or Treat Service Project ►
November 6-7 – Confirmation Retreat at Tall Oaks ►
November 20-22 – Kansas District Youth Gathering ►
November 22 – Friendsgiving ►
Confirmation Registration and FAQs ►
Middle School Kickoff Event ►
Trunk or Treat Service Project ►
Confirmation Retreat at Tall Oaks ►
Kansas District Youth Gathering ►
Friendsgiving ►
Lutheran Valley Retreat ►
Grade-Level Guides ►
LCMS Youth Gathering Recap ►
Questions?
Confirmation Registration and FAQs
For students in 6-8 grades.We are excited to start another year of confirmation classes! To help us prepare, please follow the link below to register your enrollment for the new season. This year, we would like to get to know your student as you register. Please include a photo and short bio of your student in the registration form. Confirmation class is open to all students beginning sixth through eighth grade who would like to learn more about faith and what it means to be a Lutheran Christian. Students and parents spend time engaging with the Catechism, Bible, and life application of our faith. Please register by August 17th. There will be a new family orientation meeting on August 30 for Shawnee campus students and September 2 for Mission campus students.
Shawnee Confirmation will be on
Sunday Mornings, 9:45-10:45am.
Parents will participate in the class for both campuses.
Mark Your Calendar!
September 13 – Shawnee First Class
September 16 – Mission First Class
Why do we have parents participating in Confirmation at Trinity?
1. Parents reached out and expressed a desire to be engaged and connected in the faith formation process for their middle school students. At Trinity, we are committed to ministry being a partnership of staff and the congregation, so we saw this as an opportunity to build the partnership with Confirmation families.
2. Research and experience both point to the number one observable factor in a student developing a lasting faith is whether that faith is lived out at home. Parents (not pastors, youth leaders, or peers) have the most powerful and lasting influence on their teen’s spiritual life. Knowing this, we wanted to foster faith conversations and connections between parents and students in the Confirmation program.
3. When we trialed having parents participate in Confirmation for parts of the program over the last few years, it was met with very positive reviews from parents and students.
We also know it’s important that students continue to develop an ownership and affirmation of their own personal faith. We have included opportunities for students to have faith formation without a parent present through the special events (like the kickoff game night on August 24th), Confirmation Retreat, Middle School Huddle, and more! Lenten Mentoring remains one of our integral pieces of Confirmation where students spend time with a mentor learning and worshipping alongside each other during the season of Lent.
What Bible translation do we use?
Bibles: We are using the ESV Bible translation for Confirmation so that the version matches what we use in worship and other places at Trinity. Students reading their Bible in worship will have the same translation as what is on the screens.
Catechisms: The Chief parts of Luther’s Small Catechism have been a part of our Confirmation program, and we thought it is nice for students to have their own copy to look over with their family. We are using the 2017 version of Luther’s Small Catechism.
Looking forward to seeing how students engage with God’s Word this year in Confirmation! Want to get registered for Confirmation or see what else is going on in youth ministry? Make sure you utilize the youth ministry hub!
What is the cost for Confirmation?
FOR NEW FAMILIES: To help offset the cost of materials, we’ve included an optional opportunity for families to contribute.
Please know there is absolutely no pressure to pay. You’ll have the option to:
- Cover the full cost of the books
- Contribute a partial amount
- Request a scholarship
This approach allows families to support the program in a way that works best for them. We’re grateful for your involvement and look forward to a meaningful year together. Payment options appear in the registration form.
Middle School Kickoff Event
September 20
4-6pm, September 20
Tap Ins
9571 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212
Come kick off a new year of Middle School Youth on September 20th from 4-6 PM. This exciting event will be off campus at Tap Ins. Come hang out, eat, and enjoy unlimited mini golf! Friends are welcome!
Registration is now full.
Trunk or Treat Service Project
October 25
4-5:30pm, October 25
Mission Campus Parking Lot
Come early to help!
Come volunteer for the Trunk or Treat at the Mission campus on October 25! You can volunteer by decorating your car trunk or help serve food! The event takes place from 4-5:30, but volunteers are asked to come early or stay late to help with set up and tear down. All middle school volunteers must be accompanied by a parent. High school volunteers are invited to stay a little longer and join us for youth group following the event.
November 6-7
Meet at the Shawnee Campus Parking Lot
Cost: $70 per family, Scholarships Available
This weekend long confirmation retreat takes place at the Tall Oaks Retreat Center in Linwood, Kansas, on November 6-7. This retreat is such a meaningful time for students to build friendships, grow in faith, and step away from their normal routines to focus on God. We’d love for every student to experience it if possible.
Here are a few thoughts if you or your student is on the fence
If your student is unsure about spending the night: We completely understand! Parents are welcome to stay overnight if that helps your student feel more comfortable. Or, if you have a high schooler, they’re welcome to come as a volunteer, it’s a great way to support our younger students.
If your weekend is already busy: No problem! Tall Oaks is only about 20 minutes west of the Shawnee campus, and several students usually come late or leave early. Even a few hours at the retreat can make a big impact!
If cost is a concern: Please don’t let that stop your student from coming. We have generous scholarship support available and would be happy to cover the full cost if needed—no questions asked.
Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview
Wichita, KS
November 20-22
Retreat Location: Drury Plaza Hotel, Wichita
The 2026 Kansas District Youth Gathering will be held November 20- 22, 2026, in Wichita, with the theme “Again” based on Philippians 4:4. At this gathering, we will be reminded of the great joy we have in Christ, the promises God gives us in His Word, and the encouragement we receive as members of the Body of Christ. Together, we will hear again the good news of Jesus, rejoice again in His gifts, and be strengthened again through fellowship with one another.
Participant Fee: $70
Entire Fee (if you would like to contribute to scholarships): $90
Scholarships available.
Register your spot by October 15 with the link below!
Friendsgiving
November 22, Mission Campus
November 22
Mission Campus
Join us November 22 at the Mission campus, for a night of good food, great friends, and plenty of fun as we celebrate the people God has placed in our lives. Come ready to hang out, laugh, and give thanks together.
Lutheran Valley Retreat
Seventy-six students from across the state of Kansas got together for Bible study, team building challenges, worship, and fun. We made new friends, challenged ourselves, and experienced God is a whole new way. Thank you to the parents, students, and congregation who support this event!
Grade Level Guides
Talking Faith, Friends & Future (Grades 6-12)Welcome to “Where Do We Go from Here?”
Hey there, parents! If you’re holding this guide, you’re probably someone who wants to walk well with your child through the middle and high school years. I’m so glad you’re here. These are years full of wonder, change, growth, and challenge. You’re not expected to have it all figured out. This resource was created to help you stay connected to your student and better understand the unique questions they may be asking at each stage.
As the youth family minister (and someone who sees how fast these years fly), I want to support you in being present, prayerful, and confident in your role. Inside, you’ll find insights into what your student may be thinking, practical conversation starters, and a few things to look for as they grow.
In Christ,
Beth Counts, DCE
913-563-5285
beth@tlcms.org
Grade 6
Summary Question:
Who am I starting to become, and how do I fit in at school and with friends?
Discussion Questions:
- What are some things you really enjoy or want to try this year?
- How do you feel about the new changes in school or with your friends?
- What does it mean to be a good friend, and how do you want others to treat you?
This Year at Church:
Sixth graders are welcomed into Confirmation class, beginning a three-year journey of learning, exploring Scripture, and growing in their personal faith. Look for Youth Bible study and Special Events for your middle school student in addition to Confirmation Instruction.
God-Sighting:
You may notice your student beginning to explore bigger questions about faith and identity. They might start connecting Bible stories to their own life or show moments of initiative in prayer. Some days they feel confident and adventurous, other days shy or unsure. Growth at this stage is a beautiful mix of curiosity and self-discovery.
Family Challenge:
Attend worship together at least two Sundays each month. Ask your student what they noticed or wondered about during the service.
Parent prayer:
Lord, thank you for the start of this new chapter. Help my child feel seen and give us meaningful conversations that help them grow in faith and confidence. Amen.
6th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “Strong & Courageous”
Scripture: Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
You’re sending your child into a new world—middle school. There will be moments of challenge, change, and stretching. God’s Word to Joshua is a Word for you and your child: You don’t walk this alone. His presence goes with you into new spaces and relationships.
Try This:
Read through the book of Joshua with an eye for how God leads, provides, and shows up. Reflect on how God has done the same in your family and your child’s life.
Student Devotion: “I’m Not Alone”
Scripture: Joshua 1:9
New school. New teachers. New routines. It can feel like a lot. But God promises that you never walk alone. He is with you in the classroom, the lunchroom, the locker room—everywhere.
Try This:
With a parent, make a list of the top three things you’re nervous or excited about this year. Pray together and ask God to help you be strong and courageous in those areas.
Grade 7
Summary Question:
How can I be true to myself while growing and changing?
Discussion Questions:
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What are your biggest challenges or worries right now?
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How do you decide what’s right or wrong when others are doing things differently?
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Who do you look up to, and why? How do they inspire you?
This Year at Church:
Seventh grade continues the Confirmation journey. This is often the year questions get deeper. Students are also encouraged to attend Youth Bible Study and special events where they can connect with mentors and friends. Check out our Youth Hub to see what is being offered or reach out to Beth if you have a specific service project or event in mind!
God-Sighting:
At this stage, your student may show increased emotional awareness and begin to express deeper questions about their identity and values. You might notice them testing boundaries and seeking more independence but still needing guidance and reassurance. Their faith journey is often marked by moments of doubt and discovery.
Family Challenge:
Set aside one night a week to check in—no agenda, just connection. Let your student lead the conversation.
Parent prayer:
God, in this season of growing and stretching, give us grace for the awkward and the unknown. Help us trust Your presence in every part of life. Amen.
7th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “God’s Work in Progress”
Scripture: Philippians 1:6
“…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Middle school is full of growing pains—for both kids and parents. But God is faithful. He hasn’t brought your child this far to leave them now. Even when it’s hard to see, He is shaping something good.
Try This:
Read Philippians—a joy-filled book of encouragement. Notice the way Paul sees God at work in imperfect people, and let that comfort and challenge you as a parent.
Student Devotion: “God’s Not Finished with Me”
Scripture: Philippians 1:6
You’re changing a lot. And sometimes it feels like people only notice the awkward or messy parts. But God sees the whole picture—and He’s not done.
Try This:
Ask a parent or mentor how they’ve seen you grow in the last year. Then write or draw something you hope God keeps growing in you this year.
Grade 8
Summary Question:
How do I make good choices when I want to be more independent?
Discussion Questions:
- What helps you when you’re trying to decide what to do?
- How do you handle pressure from friends or people your age?
- What are your favorite ways to learn about faith or values?
This Year at Church:
Eighth graders prepare to affirm their Baptism through Confirmation. It’s a big moment! This year also brings the Confirmation Retreat, other special events, and continued weekly engagement through Youth Bible Study. One exciting update is being able to participate in the High School Summer Camp (LVR) at the end of their 8th grade year!
God-Sighting:
This year often brings noticeable spiritual growth as your student begins to own their faith more personally. You may see them wrestling with questions of right and wrong and seeking to live out their beliefs. Emotional ups and downs are common, but these are signs of their growing maturity.
Family Challenge:
Reflect with your student on what they’ve learned in their Confirmation journey so far. Ask what faith means to them in their everyday life. Some families choose this time to give students a special gift like a ring, Bible, or something else that is meaningful. In my family, we all got a chalice on our Confirmation Sunday. Something that helps remind us of the faith we professed that day and every day.
Parent prayer:
Lord, as my child moves toward Confirmation, anchor their heart in Your truth. Help them see how their faith shapes their decisions and relationships. Amen.
8th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “A Firm Foundation”
Scripture:Matthew 7:24–25
“…like a wise man who built his house on the rock…”
As graduation from middle school approaches, the foundations you’ve been helping build really matter. Christ is the rock that holds firm in uncertainty. Keep pointing your child to His Word, grace, and love.
Try This:
Read through the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). Ask: What teachings would I want my child to carry with them into high school?
Student Devotion: “On Solid Ground”
Scripture: Matthew 7:24–25
It’s easy to build your identity on grades, popularity, or performance—but those things shift. Jesus invites you to build your life on Him. He’s a solid rock that won’t crumble when storms hit.
Try This:
Talk with a parent about what “storms” feel most real right now—stress, friendship drama, future worries. Pray together and ask Jesus to help you stand secure in Christ, not just in your own strength.
Grade 9
Summary Question:
Who am I becoming as I start high school, and what do I want to stand for?
Discussion Questions:
- What kind of student and friend do you want to be this year?
- How do you respond when someone disagrees with you or challenges your beliefs?
- What are some goals you have for your future—school, activities, or faith?
This Year at Church:
Freshmen step into high school ministry. Opportunities include Youth Bible Study, the High School Retreat, Summer Camp (LVR), and other special events. They’re welcomed into a space that encourages deeper ownership of faith. More service opportunities arise as well. They can get connected in children’s ministry, AV Tech, or other areas of our church.
God-Sighting:
Your student may begin to show clearer signs of taking responsibility for their faith and choices. You might see them developing stronger friendships rooted in shared beliefs and values. This is a time of testing identity and discovering what truly matters to them.
Family Challenge:
Choose one special event this year for your student to attend—and make it a priority on the family calendar. Maybe you go on a camping trip together, help them design a service project, find something you are both interested in. It might not go perfectly, but the hope is to show your student you are interested in what interests them.
Parent prayer:
Jesus, give my student courage as they begin high school. Help them walk with purpose and find faithful friends who support them. Be their guide in the moments I can’t be. Amen..
9th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “New Season, Same God”
Scripture: Isaiah 43:19
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”
High school brings a new world—new opportunities and new pressures. You may feel both proud and nervous. God is already ahead of you and your child, working something new.
Try This:
Read Isaiah 43 with a heart open to how God leads through unknowns. What new things is God doing in you or your child this season?
Student Devotion: “God Goes First”
Scripture: Isaiah 43:19
You’re stepping into high school—and God is stepping in with you. He doesn’t just wait at the finish line; He walks every step with you.
Try This:
Make a list with a parent of 3 things that feel brand new this year. Then pray: “God, help me see what new thing You’re doing in my life.”
Grade 10
Summary Question:
What kind of person do I want to become, and what matters most to me?
Discussion Questions:
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What qualities do you admire in others and want to develop in yourself?
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How do you stay motivated when things get hard?
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How do you balance school, friends, family, and your faith?
This Year at Church:
Tenth grade is a time to deepen friendships and faith. Youth Bible Study and special events like Summer Camp or service projects create meaningful connections. They will have more independence as they probably begin to drive.
God-Sighting:
You may notice your student becoming more reflective and intentional about their faith and friendships. They might begin to articulate their values more clearly and seek out ways to live those out. Moments of struggle with balance or pressure are normal and part of growth.
Family Challenge:
Invite your student to talk about someone they admire and how that person lives their faith. Then, pray for someone you both look up to.
Parent prayer:
God, thank You for shaping my child’s character and story. Help them lean on You when they face pressure and give us moments of connection and grace this year. Amen.
10th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “Rooted & Growing”
Scripture: Colossians 2:6–7
“…continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him…”
Tenth grade can feel like a season of refining—growing into identity, friendships, faith. Your child is forming deep roots, even when growth feels slow. Stay rooted in Christ yourself, modeling what it means to trust Him daily.
Try This:
Read Colossians as a family or on your own. Notice how Paul encourages a life deeply connected to Jesus.
Student Devotion: “Digging Deep”
Scripture: Colossians 2:6–7
You’re not just learning facts and formulas—you’re learning who you are. And the deeper your roots grow in Jesus, the stronger you’ll stand in every season.
Try This:
Talk with a parent about a time when being rooted in faith helped you through something hard. Pray that God would keep growing strong roots in both of you.
Grade 11
Summary Question:
How can I live with purpose and make decisions that align with my values?
Discussion Questions:
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What dreams or plans do you have for after high school?
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How do you decide what’s important when you have many choices or pressures?
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How does your faith shape the way you treat others and make decisions?
This Year at Church:
Juniors often step into more responsibility and reflection. Youth Bible Study, mission trips, and serving opportunities help them live out their values in community.
God-Sighting:
This year often brings deeper spiritual reflection and clearer personal convictions. Your student might start leading in faith communities or mentoring younger students. They may wrestle with big questions about purpose and calling.
Family Challenge:
Set aside time this semester to explore post-high school dreams. Whether it’s college, work, or something else—listen, pray, and encourage.
Parent prayer:
Lord, walk with my student as they ask big questions and make big plans. Keep their heart rooted in You and help them know they’re never alone. Amen.
11th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “Wisdom for the Road”
Scripture: James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God… and it will be given to you.”
This is a big year—ACTs, plans, questions. But your child doesn’t need all the answers today. Keep pointing them to the One who gives wisdom freely. And ask boldly for it yourself, too.
Try This:
Read through the book of James, slowly. Reflect on what kind of wisdom you want to guide your family’s choices.
Student Devotion: “God Gives Wisdom”
Scripture: James 1:5
You don’t need to know everything about your future. But you can ask God for wisdom, and He promises to give it.
Try This:
Make a list with a parent of big or small decisions you’re facing. Ask God together to give you clarity and courage.
Grade 12
Summary Question:
How can I confidently step into the future while holding onto my faith and values?
Discussion Questions:
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What skills or habits have helped you so far, and what do you want to work on before graduating?
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How will you keep your faith alive as you move to new places or experiences?
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Looking back, what are you grateful for, and what lessons will you carry forward?
This Year at Church:
Seniors are celebrated and supported through a year of transition. From the High School Retreat to Youth Bible Study and the LCMS Youth Gathering (if applicable), students are reminded they belong. You might see students backing away from events as their schedule fills up with the special senior year moments. Give them grace and guidance to stay connected to their church community while also transitioning out of high school.
God-Sighting:
You may notice your senior showing maturity in faith and leadership, with a growing sense of readiness for the next step. They might express gratitude for their faith journey and a desire to keep growing. You may also notice your student wrestling with the weight of deciding their future. Remind them that God is with them in all things; the times things go well, and the times things go less well. Challenges around change and uncertainty are normal and opportunities for grace.
Family Challenge:
Take time to name the moments you’re proud of—write them down, speak them out loud. Create space to reflect on how far your student has come.
Parent prayer:
Jesus, thank You for walking with us all these years. As graduation approaches, help my child step forward in faith, with joy and confidence in Your plans. Amen.
12th Grade Devotions
Parent Devotion: “The Lord Goes With You”
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:8
“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you…”
Senior year is a blur of excitement and emotion. You’re launching your child into something new—and God promises to go before them. Even when they leave your home, they never leave His hands.
Try This:
Read Deuteronomy 31. Reflect on what it means to release your child with confidence in God’s faithful presence.
Student Devotion: “You’re Not Going Alone”
Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:8
Graduation might feel like the end of something—but it’s really the beginning. God promises He’s not sending you out alone. He’s walking with you into every new thing.
Try This:
With a parent, talk about what you’re most excited and most nervous about next year. Pray for courage and a strong sense of God’s presence.
The Journey: A Road Trip!
If our lives are a road trip, then we know there are potholes, flat tires, unexpected turns, and stretches where the views are breathtaking. Each season of middle and high school has its own kind of terrain.
Middle School: Winding Mountain Roads
This is the part of the trip where you’re climbing fast. Everything’s changing, and the road can feel steep and unpredictable. There are emotional hairpin turns, big questions about identity, and lots of stops to figure things out. But it’s also full of discovery, growth, and wow-worthy views. Middle schoolers are learning to navigate.
High School: Open Highways & Crossroads
Now the road opens. High schoolers are picking their path, merging into new lanes, and sometimes pulling over to reevaluate their direction. There’s more freedom, more choices. It’s not always smooth driving, but this is where students start to chart their course and learn how to stay grounded even when the road feels unclear.
No matter where your family is on the journey, you don’t have to travel alone. We’re in the car with you, music up, snacks packed, GPS set (even if we recalculate a few times). Let’s ride this out together.
What Our Youth Ministry Offers
We believe faith is formed through relationships and that the Church walks best with families when we walk consistently, compassionately, and with care. Our youth ministry is designed to help students know they are loved, known, and called by God.
Grades 6–8: Middle School
- Confirmation Classes (Weekly): A deeper dive into Scripture, Lutheran doctrine, and what it means to own your faith
- Youth Bible Study (Weekly): Safe space for exploring God’s Word and asking questions together
- Confirmation Retreat: A fun and focused weekend to grow spiritually and connect socially
- Seasonal Events: Think game nights, service projects, and relationship-building experiences
Grades 9–12: High School
- Youth Bible Study (Weekly): Honest conversations, real-life application, and community rooted in Scripture
- High School Retreat: Time away to recharge, reset, and go deeper in faith
- Summer Camp (Grades 8–12): A high-energy week of faith, fun, and lifelong memories
- Mission Trips: Serving together, growing together, seeing faith come to life
- Youth Gathering (Every 3 years): Thousands of LCMS students coming together for worship, learning, and connection
We’re Here for You
You don’t have to do this alone. Our youth ministry team is here to walk with your student and with you. Whether life feels smooth or complicated, we want you to know you can reach out to talk through school, friendships, mental health, home dynamics, or faith questions. We’re real people who care deeply and want to be helpful.
About to have a scary conversation with your teen? Feel free to reach and for prayer, encouragement and perspective. Please know you can contact us any time. Our goal is not to have all the answers, but to be present, prayerful, and supportive every step of the way.
Stay Connected
Faith grows in community. It matters when families worship together. It matters when students are seen, known, and loved. It matters when adults speak truth and grace into their lives.
Here are a few ways to stay connected this year:
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Worship together. Even when life is busy, worship roots us in what lasts.
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Show up consistently. Encourage your student to attend weekly programs and special events—they’re built to grow faith and friendships.
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Reach out when something feels off. You are not alone. We want to support and encourage your family however we can.
Thanks for being a parent who invests in their child’s future. May this guide give you confidence, clarity, and a little extra hope for the road ahead.
LCMS Youth Gathering
July 19-23, 2025 - New Orleans, LAIn July 2025, youth from Trinity Lutheran Church joined with thousands of other youth from around the country and world for the LSMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans. Enjoy the recap video of their trip!
Held every 3 years since 1980, the LCMS Youth Gathering provides thousands of youth and adults the opportunity to come together as a community of God’s people to be encouraged in their walk with Jesus Christ and learn about the Christian faith and their Lutheran identity.
The Gathering is more than the five days of the event. The preparation process for the Gathering brings together young people and supportive adults to encourage each other in their baptismal identity. The Gathering provides young people a vision for the vastness of Christ’s Church and equips them for vocational service as they continue their walk with Jesus.
This event is organized by LCMS Youth Ministry in Saint Louis, MO. For additional ways to connect to LCMS Youth Ministry, please visit www.lcms.org/youth. Bring a parent with you and learn more about our upcoming trip this summer.
