God has done incredible things in our student ministry since we opened the new Student Building in February 2023. We’ve celebrated more than 90 student baptisms, watched students grow deeper in God’s Word, and seen many invite friends and family to experience Jesus—sometimes even getting to be part of their baptisms. We’re grateful for what God is doing in this generation, and we believe He’s just getting started.

As we look ahead, we’re making an important shift in how we gather on Sundays—one we believe will help students stay connected to Christ long-term and strengthen our whole church family.

What’s Changing

Beginning Sunday, March 8, 2026, we will no longer hold a separate Student Worship service at 9:00 AM. Instead, students will join the Main Worship Service at 9:00 AM in the main auditorium.

LifeGroup Hour is not changing and will continue as normal.

Why We’re Making This Change

A common challenge across youth ministries is that many students disengage from church after high school. A Lifeway Research study (2019) found that about 66% of young adults who regularly attended church as teenagers drop out for at least a year between ages 18–22. One of the reasons cited is that students often feel connected to their youth group—but not as connected to the larger church body.

We believe students thrive when they’re connected not only to a ministry, but to the whole church—worshiping, learning, and growing alongside believers of all ages and life stages.

Additional reasons for this shift:

• Pastor Spike is entering his final year as Lead Pastor (retiring at the end of 2026). We want students to hear his teaching and vision during this important season in our church.

• As a family-centered church, we value families worshiping in the same space—hearing the same message and singing the same songs.

• This change also allows our student team to occasionally lead short-term parent growth groups or host student leader training sessions on Sundays, as needed.

Timeline & What to Expect

• March 1, 2026: No regular Sunday programming due to THRIVE Weekend (Student Retreat: Feb. 27–March 1).

• March 8, 2026: Official transition—students attend 9:00 AM Main Service at Hodges.

On March 8 (and going forward):

• We’ll reserve a section where students can sit and worship together.

• Students are also welcome to sit with their families if they prefer.

Questions?

If you have questions, we’d love to talk! Reach out to Cam or Megan anytime—phone calls and coffee conversations are welcome.

Our prayer remains the same: We’re not done until every student in Jacksonville experiences Jesus.