Happy October! Did you know this month is National Pizza Month? True story. So if you needed an excuse to eat more pizza, now you have one.

Here are a few things coming up in our ministry . . .

ADD YOUR OWN DATES: PARENT & SMALL GROUP LEADER BREAKFAST
This month, we’re creating an opportunity for you to connect with your kid’s small group leader so you can better love, lead, and influence your teenager together. Don’t miss it! Get all the details on our website.

ADD YOUR OWN DATES: LARGER THAN LIFE GAME NIGHT
Next month, we’re getting students together for a night of board games! Larger than life board games, actually. Get all the details on our website.

THE GREATEST SHOW: A 4-WEEK SERIES ON IDENTITY

Do you ever felt like you’re putting on a show? Like the person people think  you are doesn’t line up with who you really are? Or maybe you’ve been known to put on different personas for different situations — personas that help you fit in with certain crowds, even if that persona doesn’t reflect who you really want to be. Sound familiar? Of course it does. We can all relate because, at times, we all struggle with the same big questions: “Who am I? Who loves me? Why am I here?” In this 4-week series on identity, you’ll help students find answers to those questions as they discover that, in Jesus, they are loved, they are forgiven, they have purpose, and they belong.

Parents, you can’t do this alone. You need other adults to help you love and influence your kids. This month, here’s a challenge: name a few adults you trust. Then thank them for loving your kid.

If you’re subscribed to Grow Your Ministry, now would be a good time to attach Parent Tip Video #3 from your Parents section.

Understanding your teenager is hard work. On any given day, you’ve probably got questions about their growth, development, behavior, emotions, safety, sexuality, and the culture that’s impacting them. If that sounds familiar, here’s one place to browse tons of articles on practical topics you’re already wondering about.

We consider our volunteer leaders to be the best link we have between our church and your family. So here’s a question: Have you had a conversation with your teenager’s leader yet this year?