7th - 8th Grade

Junior High

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Guiding early teens towards a deeper understanding and relationship with Christ

More than just fun and friends, Cottonwood Youth for Junior High is a place to explore faith, ask questions, and form Godly relationships with other students.

Designed for 7th and 8th graders

Sunday morning classes

Wednesday night youth worship

Age-appropriate teaching

Social events throughout the year

JOIN US

What's coming up for junior high students

Building strong spiritual root

The Jr. High years are full of change. Students are growing quickly, asking new questions, and beginning to form their own identity. At Cottonwood Youth, we see these years as foundational.

Our heart is simple

We want every student to feel known, valued, and safe. We believe real growth happens through relationships, not just programs. That’s why our leaders are committed to building trust with students and walking alongside them, not just teaching at them.

Everything we do is grounded in God’s Word. We teach Scripture clearly and consistently, helping students understand who they are in Christ and how to walk with Him in everyday life. We create space for questions, conversation, and small groups where students can process what they’re learning in a healthy and supportive environment.

Our mission

Loving those who are close. Calling those who are far.

We want students who are already connected to church to grow deeper, and we want students who feel far from God to know they are welcome here.

Jr. High ministry at Cottonwood is about building strong spiritual roots that will carry students into the next stage of life.

Classes throughout the week

Bible Study

Youth Night

ACTIVITIES

A taste of events for 7th and 8th graders

Students can dive into various activities, not only designed to make their year unforgettable, but to grow in their relationship with Jesus and with other believers.

Here is a sneak peek into the fun, faith, and friendship that await.

Mission Trips

Scheduled throughout the year to coincide with Spring Break, Summer Break, or Christmas Break, we encourage 7th and 8th graders to participate in age-appropriate mission trips.

Falls Creek Youth Camp

Every summer we take our junior high and high schoolers to Falls Creek in Oklahoma. Staying in a dedicated junior high cabin with separate sleeping spaces for boys and girls, 7th and 8th graders experience a camp intended to grow their faith.

Summer Swim Nights

Summer is still full of activities for our Junior High Youth, with Summer Swim Nights as a highlight. We gather, share snacks, swim, and conclude with prayer and a short teaching.

Bible Studies

Junior high youth are invited to participate in various Bible Studies throughout the school year.

Get connected

Junior High leadership

Hayden Shellenberger

Associate Youth Pastor

Worship

Youth Band

Wednesday nights are led by our Youth Band, giving an opportunity for students to lead other students in worship.

Questions? We can help

Any junior high student (typically grades 7-8) is welcome to join us! Whether you’re new to Cottonwood or have been coming for a while, we’d love to have you be part of our community.
No, you don’t need to be a member to join in on the fun. Our events are open to all junior high students who are interested in exploring faith and building friendships.

Expect a mix of fun, faith, and fellowship! From holiday celebrations and community service projects to retreats and special worship nights, there’s always something exciting happening.

Absolutely! We encourage you to bring friends. It’s a great way for them to see what our junior high ministry is all about and to experience church.

Yes, we welcome parent involvement! There are many ways parents can support our ministry, from volunteering at events to being part of our prayer team. Each volunteer must complete and pass a background check. Contact Hayden for more information on how you can contribute.

Yes, we post a full summer calendar on Easter Sunday so families can plan accordingly.