"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly..." - Colossians 3:16
“If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23
Life in the Cross is an integral part of life in Jesus. This level has a wonderful emphasis on the “theology of the cross” as foundational to life in Jesus. Our central teaching is that we die to ourselves and live our lives in Jesus.
Youth will discover and experience this teaching in classes and at home. They also will learn what this means in ongoing baptismal life. Youth will learn to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Jesus. In their family and personal life, youth will continue to discover and experience life in Jesus through practice of spiritual disciplines, modeling and instruction by parents and support of sponsors.
On the developmental front, youth at this time are beginning to see their way through adolescence and are starting the transition from concrete to abstract thinking.
Church instruction during these two years will include a gifts and talents assessment; and the exploration of identity and character in Jesus. Youth will also begin developing a personal mission statement and will study Romans, Ephesians and Colossians.
At the end of the this level, youth will prepare and deliver a personal testimony. On the last Sunday in April, youth will participate in the Life in the Cross event.