NDB is a Catholic school that hosts people of many different religions. But, how do believers of Jesus connect with their faith outside of school? Attending high school ministries plays a large role in many students’ relationships with God.

High school ministries (HSM) are usually a branch of the church that is geared towards building connections with students to Jesus. Most churches dedicate a day and time of the week for when it will take place. In the Bay Area, they are many HSM’s of all denominations.

Many HSM’s are structured similarly. They begin with a social period to catch up with friends, eat food or play games. Following is worship, where students are able to use their gifts to sing and play instruments to lead students in song. Some high school ministries have even created their own band on Spotify, such as the youth ministry for Vive Church in Mountain View—Vox Gen.

Nick Santos, a junior, attends Vox Gen, and believes attending youth ministry is key to growing your faith.

“I think it is really important to establish a community that have the same values as you and can also build you up when you’re not always surrounded by that kind of support. I think it’s really crucial to establish support outside of your home and outside of school,” said Santos

After worship is a sermon, which can be the most impactful part of HSM for some. Shpresa Knowles has attended the HSM of Hope Church in Santa Cruz for 3 years. When she was asked how going to HSM impacted her faith journey she said, “I think that going to Hope has affected my faith journey in every possible way. Because, I have people that I love who also love Jesus, who help me walk with Jesus. It’s very comforting to have people you can confide in about the ups and downs of faith, and who you can share all your messy emotions with”.

Finally, is life groups. This is usually a period of time dedicated for small-group discussion with one or more group leaders.

Becoming involved with your faith outside of NDB is key to growing with God. Especially as high school students, how we nurture our relationship with Jesus now creates a framework to build on for the rest of our lives.

HSM creates a safe space for followers, and allows for a faith-based community to be prevalent in students lives. Teenagers can explore their faith, build relationships, and grow in their personal and spiritual development. By participating in a high school ministry, teens can find connection, guidance, and a sense of purpose that can shape the course of their lives for years to come.