Perimeter Students
Sunday Equipping
What’s Changing and Why It Matters
Starting Sunday, August 3, we’re launching updated Student Ministry programming at Perimeter. Student discipleship is expanding beyond a weekly closed group format to include a broader vision of spiritual formation. This page serves as a reference point to recap the “why,” “what,” and “how” behind these changes. You can also jump below for a closer look at what this means for you as a Student, Parent, or Volunteer.
Our vision is to see people come into right relationship with God, self, and neighbor as they experience His kingdom and express it to the world. We remain committed to the vision of making and training disciples in the next generation.
Why the Change?
We believe God is calling us to grow beyond what’s been good and aim for what could be great. These changes are the result of over two years of prayerful evaluation, listening sessions, and staff input. We’ve heard consistent themes that point to opportunities for growth:
- Students are craving belonging and spiritual depth
- Some felt lost in the structure of closed small groups
- Parents and volunteers asked for more consistency and clarity
- This generation is more spiritually open than any in the last 50 years
This is not a departure from our mission—it’s a deepening of it. We want to create more accessible, relational, and spiritually formative spaces that help students grow in Christ and connect to each other.
Senior Pastor Jeff Norris shared more about these updates and how they will impact they will impact kids, students, and our entire church family.
New this fall
What to Expect
- Weekly Sunday morning gatherings for both Middle School and High School at 9 am
- Guided table conversations instead of pre-assigned small groups
- Opportunities to form organic friendships and explore faith in real-life ways
- Support for existing groups that want to continue meeting
- Worship Nights and special gatherings throughout the semester
- Ongoing listening posts and parent equipping events
The details
Student Environments Overview
Middle School Life
Sundays at 9 am, in the Hangar
A high-energy, welcoming environment designed for middle schoolers in grades 6-8 to:
- Dive into God’s Word
- Engage in lively worship
- Laugh, play games, and form real friendships
- Have meaningful table conversations guided by trusted leaders
It’s fun. It’s formative. And it’s for everyone!
High School at the Bricks
Sundays at 9 am, in the Upper Bricks
A casual, relational space where high schoolers in grades 9-12 can:
- Explore Scripture in community
- Reflect and discuss at their own pace
- Connect through guided table discussions
- Enjoy snacks and thoughtful conversations among peers
Whether you’re a freshman or senior—you belong here, so come as you are.
Other Opportunities for Students
Weekly, Monthly, Quarterly, Annually
There’s no change to the additional gatherings for students, including Lead leadership development for Middle School and High School, our weekly Wednesday night Wash for High School, our monthly Link for middle schoolers and their friends, the Rush summer conference, and our annual Retreats. Find the details of these opportunities on the Middle School and High School ministry pages.
Answering your questions
For Students
What if I don’t know anyone?
You’re not alone! We’ve built these spaces to be welcoming and low-pressure. Come try it out—you just might find your people.
Do I have to talk in front of a group?
Nope! You can listen, hang back, and jump in when you’re ready. Whether you’re loud or quiet, these spaces are for you.
What if I still want to meet with my high school small group from last year?
We’re so glad you’ve found a group that works for you! Connect with your leader(s) to let them know how much you enjoyed being in their group and ask if they would be willing to keep it going. This is a fantastic opportunity for your group to find the time, place, and approach that is just right for you.
If my current group time doesn’t work or isn’t continuing, what are some other ways I can stay connected?
We’d love for you to join us Sunday mornings at 9 am for connection, discussion groups, and diving into God’s Word! If that doesn’t fit, here are some meaningful ways to stay involved:
- Wednesdays – Wash & High School Night Out
- Fridays – Middle School Link
- Student Leadership (Lead)
- Annual retreats and conferences—like our Fall Retreat and Rush Conference
- Worship Nights
What if I want to serve in other areas of the church?
You should! A huge part of your discipleship journey is looking for ways to share your faith with others. There are many places for you to plug in and serve at Perimeter Church on a Sunday morning and throughout the week. If your serving interest conflicts with our new Sunday morning programs, we recommend that you serve one or two weeks per month. Of course, that decision is 100% up to you and your family.
Can I invite a friend to join me at 9 am on Sundays?
Absolutely! The 9 am environment is the perfect opportunity to bring friends to church with you before stepping into the larger worship spaces in the Main Sanctuary or the Chapel. Invite a friend to Middle School Life or High School at The Bricks, and save them a seat!
For Parents
Will my child still have a small group?
Instead of fixed or assigned groups, students will form relationships naturally through Sunday environments and connect organically. We’ll still support previously formed small groups that want to continue.
Will this be consistent and structured?
Yes—every Sunday at 9 am. Our environments are intentionally designed and led by our student ministry staff and supported by committed volunteers trained to guide spiritual conversations and build community.
What if my child doesn't know anyone their age at Perimeter?
We’ve all been there, which is why our staff, volunteers, and student leaders are specifically on the lookout for anyone who is having trouble getting connected. Our welcome team will ask a few “get to know you” questions, then help you get a conversation started with at least one of our student leaders who will be your host for the day. One thing is for sure—you won’t go more than one Sunday without knowing at least a handful of friendly faces in our ministry.
Why these changes now?
In evaluating how we can best steward the opportunity to disciple the next generation to follow Christ, we recognize there is a limited window of time to implement ministry programming changes, which is in the summer, before the next school year begins.
What does it look like for my child to serve in other areas of the church?
We know that many students serve on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. We pray it will be your family’s new rhythm of worship to attend the 9 am Equipping Hour, which reaches both students and adults at Perimeter, and attend the 10:45 am worship service together.
If your student’s serving interest conflicts with our new Sunday morning programs, we recommend that they serve one or two weeks per month. Of course, that decision is 100% up to your family.
For Volunteers
What’s my role now that groups aren’t pre-assigned?
Your presence is needed on Sunday mornings! You’ll help welcome students to the Hangar or the Bricks. You’ll host and guide conversations at tables, fostering community and spiritual growth. Training and support will be provided.
We pray you’ll serve twice a month in our Sunday morning equipping environments for students, but there are many ways to serve in student ministry at Perimeter. We’d love to connect you to the right opportunity—just reach out to our team.
How can I prepare for the new format?
Be present, prayerful, and relational. You’ll receive tools, resources, and encouragement to lead well. And yes—bring your authentic self and your love for Jesus. That’s what students need most!
I'd still like to serve in some capacity. What are my next steps?
We’re so grateful for you! Please let us know by July 21 how you’d like to continue serving. Here’s who you can contact:
- High School: Renee Imbesi
- Middle School: Anna Park
Whether in the new High School or Middle School Sunday morning environments, or other student ministry volunteer roles, we love having you on the team and are grateful for the ways you choose to serve!
Questions?
We know change can raise questions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Student Ministries team. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
