Teens

Middle Schoolers enjoy activities in the church that are more action- oriented and allow them to ask questions as they wonder about their life together with one another and God. Our programs give space for young people to build friendships, have fun and learn their faith.

Sundays at 9 AM in the Conference Room

Parents are encouraged to take advantage of the 9 AM Adult Forum offered by the rector and fellow clergy after they drop off their youth.

During the school year, there will be group activities that rotate between spiritual, service and fellowship activities. In the winter, an all youth ski trip to Northern Michigan is a big event for our youth. In the early summer, youth are leaders at our Vacation Bible School and in late summer we take a day trip to Cedar Point. Middle School youth are also encouraged to participate in our local and out of state Mission Trips.

Each year in March Middle school youth will travel to a weekend faith formation event. It has typically been held at Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City. Youth will participate in worship, bible study, skillshops and service. We enjoy the waterpark and make friends with each other and our peers across the state. Registration starts in the fall.

Youth are encouraged to join Cranbrook Choristers, which rehearses Mondays and Tuesdays from 5-6.30 PM and sings regularly throughout the school year with a trip to Boston planned for the end of the year. Youth whose voices have changed are invited to audition for the Christ Church Choir which rehearses on Wednesday evenings.

Our high school programming aims to provide sacred space for growing up. High Schoolers are dealing with the stress of school and extracurricular activities, as well as managing life as a teenager. CCC offers a place that allows them to be themselves, be refreshed and experience God’s unconditional love no matter what is happening in their lives.

Sundays at 10:00 in the Parlor

High Schoolers need a place to be present to one another, get to know each other and share what they have experienced throughout the week and in worship. Leaders will facilitate short discussions on relevant teen topics that connect to God, highs and lows for the week and a basic check in. It will conclude back in the church for Holy communion.

Throughout the year there are youth group activities that rotate between spiritual, service and fellowship opportunities. In the winter, a youth ski trip to Northern Michigan is planned, along with summer mission trips. Acolyting is a ministry our high schoolers continue in and become leaders. Confirmation class is encouraged for 9th grade and above. Check out the annual calendar.

Each year in February High School youth will travel to a weekend faith formation event. It is currently held in a hotel in Kalamazoo Youth will participate in worship, bible study, skillshops and service. We enjoy congregation time and make friends with each other and our peers across the state. Registration starts in the fall.

High Schoolers are invited to join Schola Cantorum, the new Christ Church Teen Choir, which rehearses during the week.

High Schooler and middle school youth can serve the church by becoming an Acolyte. This program trains young people in the beauty and tradition of worship services, with each acolyte playing a vital role in congregational worship.

Acolyte trainings are on the first Sunday of the month from October to May from 11:30- 1:00pm with lunch and fellowshiping included. All acolytes are encouraged to attend this monthly training. High school youth will be offered the opportunity to lead trainings.

Acolytes are required to be at church a half-hour before service starts to robe and receive instructions. Acolytes who have served for at least two years are eligible to become Acolyte Team Leaders, leading/directing other acolytes during the worship service and helping with the trainings.

We use and app called MSP for scheduling our acolytes here is a link to download and use-

Every youth 9th grade and higher is invited to join confirmation class. This class meets monthly from Sept.-April with confirmation in May. Youth will learn about different aspects of the church , worship and their own relationship to God. The class includes a family dinner in September and another in May. To register please click on the link in the sidebar.

Each summer middle and high school youth will be invited to leave the state or country and go serve.This event will include traveling with and building relationships with their peers. Walking alongside people in another city to help learn about and help them in their need.Spending some time exploring the surrounding areas and growing our relationship with God.

This week long event happens the first week in August and is open to middle and high school youth. We will travel to Detroit and stay in a church or retreat center while learning about and  serving the people of Detroit. We will spend time with our community partners in Detroit and explore different populations that we can help. Registration opens in January.