ITM Parent Newsletter

SO, YOU’RE THE PARENT OF A TEENAGER, HUH?

Congratulations! You have one of the most important (and sometimes the most difficult) jobs on the planet.

We know your job isn’t always easy, but here’s what we want you to know– we’re here to help in any way that we can. Sure, we’re a “youth” ministry, but teenagers aren’t the only people we care about. We care about you too.

No matter how connected you are with our church, this Parent Newsletter will show you some of the ways that we care for and serve you and your child. Thanks for letting us be another voice in the life of your teenager. Your trust and partnership mean a lot to us.
ITM Parents,

The holidays are creeping up again, which means two things: your calendar is about to look like a bowl of alphabet soup, and ITM is officially shifting into high gear. We’re ready. In fact, I think we might be too ready. Our team has been buzzing with plans, ideas, and the occasional questionable amount of coffee as we prepare for a full season of events and a powerful preaching series.

This month, we’re finishing “From Pit to Promise” - a journey through the promises of God that meets your students right where life gets messy. It’s hopeful, it’s honest, and it might be the exact reminder our teens need as the year winds down. And don’t worry—we’ve packed plenty of fun along the way so they can laugh, grow, and stay connected through the holiday craziness.

I can’t wait to share everything we have lined up. ITM is ready! Let’s make this season meaningful for your students and your family.

— Pastor Joel

Upcoming Sermon Information

FROM PIT TO PROMISE 

This month, we’re helping students see that God often prepares and positions His people through seasons that feel difficult. As we continue through Joseph’s story, the early chapters of Exodus, and key teachings of Jesus, your conversations at home can reinforce what we're learning.

Series Big Idea: God uses suffering to prepare and position us for His purpose; His promises prevail.

Week 1 (November 5): “The Dreamer in the Pit”
Genesis 37–40 | Matthew 15–16
Joseph faces rejection; Peter wrestles with doubt.
Parent Focus: Ask where your student feels discouraged or overlooked and remind them God works in hidden seasons.

Week 2 (November 5): “From Prison to Palace”
Genesis 41–45 | Matthew 17–18
Joseph forgives; Jesus teaches forgiveness.
Parent Focus: Discuss how forgiveness looks in real life and why it protects our hearts.

Week 3 (November 12): “God Meant It for Good”
Genesis 46–50 | Matthew 19–20
Joseph sees God’s purpose; Jesus teaches upside-down Kingdom values.
Parent Focus: Share a time when God brought good out of a hard situation.

Week 4 (December 3): “God’s Rescue Plan Begins”
Exodus 1–8 | Matthew 21–22
God raises a deliverer; Jesus enters Jerusalem as the true Deliverer.
Parent Focus: Ask what your student is praying for and remind them God hears.

Parental Discipleship Ideas:
  • Proverbs: Simple weekly wisdom themes to talk through at home
  • Psalms: Short devotional readings that help students respond to God with honesty and worship

Upcoming Events & Announcements

ITM Campfire Service | November 19 | 6:00pm

Location: Front of Building D

Join us for a special combined praise service around the campfire. Students from both Middle School and High School will gather together for worship, testimonies, and Scripture as we prepare our hearts for the holiday season. Bring a jacket and be ready for a meaningful night of worship under the night sky.

ITM Christmas Party | December 7 | 5:00–8:00pm

This year’s Christmas Party has a few exciting changes from our original schedule. Middle School and High School will still celebrate on the same night, but portions of the evening will be separated to create age-specific activities before bringing everyone together for a big combined finale.

Students will kick off the night with a high-energy adventure: "The 12 Clues of Christmas Scavenger Hunt." Middle School will complete their hunt on campus, while High School will take on a dual-location challenge—half on property and half around town.

After the hunt, the whole group will return for snacks, games, Christmas challenges, and some surprise twists that may or may not involve your student performing hilarious versions of "The Twelve Days of Christmas." It’s a night packed with laughter, rivalry, music, and Christmas mayhem.

You won’t want your student to miss this one! (PLEASE REGISTER)

Student Worship Sunday | December 14 | 8:00am, 9:30am, 11:00am

On this Sunday, our students will join the adult worship team to help lead all three morning services. It’s always a joy to see this generation singing, serving, and praising God alongside the wider church family. Moments like this remind our congregation that worship is multi-generational, and the next wave of leaders is already stepping forward.

Call Times:
  • Musicians - 6:30am
  • Congregational Vocals - 6:45am
  • All Students on Platform - 7:15am

Thank you for helping your student arrive promptly. Their presence adds energy and encouragement to our entire church body. Be sure to come early - donuts will be provided!

ITM Calendar