As we dive into the topic of sexual temptation and sin with our Senior High, we really want to make sure parents are in on the loop. Monday, we sent out this letter to parents. I thought I'd put it up here for other youth workers who dive into this or similar topics. Feel free to take it and use it, change it where it needs to be change in order to fit your setting...
Dear Parent,
I’m writing to inform you of a very important series we will be kicking off this Wednesday, October 22 at Senior High Wednesday Night Youth. You’ve likely heard the idiom, “There’s an elephant in the room.” This refers to significant truths or situations that everyone seems to ignore. We believe there is an Elephant in the Senior High Ministry that deserves our attention. That elephant is the issue of sexual purity.
Here’s what the next 5 weeks will look like for the series There’s an elephant in the room.
October 22 – Let’s Talk About It. What is God’s intention for us and our sexuality?
October 29 – Four Letter “L” Word. What is lust, and how is it different from love?
November 5 – Pink and Blue Elephants. Guys and Gals will be split. Each gender will face temptation in some unique ways. A panel of leaders will take time to answer questions and address issues that are specific to their gender.
November 12 – Understanding the Other Elephant. Guys and Gals will be split again. Alison Gingrich (Sr. High Intern) and my wife will be answering questions for the guys. I will be answering questions for the gals in an effort to better understand the uniqueness of God’s creation in man and woman.
November 19 – Removing the Elephant. God’s plan and design for sexuality is the best path for us. What standards are we going to set in our life in order to stay on His path?
A few clarifying points:
This series is not a “sex ed course”.
This series is a “theological course” on God’s design for sex and relationships.
This series is not rated G.
This series is rated PG-13. There will be honest and blunt talk, but in a way that honors God.
This series is not just about sex.
This series is about finding a deep fulfillment that is only found in a healthy relationship with God.
As we address this topic, there may be some valuable opportunities for dialogue to be opened between parents and students. Parents can head to www.nmconline.net/seniorhighblog on Thursday mornings for a follow up on the previous night as well as some potential discussion questions.
A Commitment to Purity:
In conjunction with this series, there is a special opportunity for parents and students on Wednesday evening, November 26th at 6:00 p.m. in the Fieldhouse. “A Commitment to Purity” is for students who are serious about wanting to save their sexual purity for their future spouse. This night involves students exchanging vows with their parents, committing to save themselves for their future spouse.
Past experience has shown that this can be a very special time. If you are interested in taking part in this night, I would strongly encourage you to discuss this with your student, yet leave the decision to participate in his/her court. They need to have ownership in the commitment. We would like for you to RSVP. Please fill out the postcard included and either mail it in, or turn it into the Main Office during the week or at the Ministry Center on Sundays/Wednesdays by Sunday, November 23. Some families have purchased rings, necklaces or some sort of token to mark the commitment being made. Though not necessary, if you would choose to do that, you could bring your token and exchange it that night.
If you have any questions about this special night or about this Wednesday night series, feel free to contact me at the church by phone (574) 773-7773 ext. 229 or via email at derryprenkert@nmc1.org. We know this is a sensitive, yet very important topic. We would appreciate your prayers as we walk through this series together.
Serving Students and Families,
Derry Prenkert, Senior High Pastor
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