Youth Connect: A Place to Belong, Believe, and Become

At The Bridge Gulf Coast Church, we believe the next generation isn’t just the future of the church—they are the church right now. That’s why Bridge Youth exists: to create a safe, fun, and faith-filled environment where middle and high school students can discover who they are in Christ, build lifelong friendships, and grow in their relationship with God.

Each week, students come together for high-energy gatherings that include worship, games, teaching, and small group discussions designed to make faith real and relevant to their everyday lives. Our youth leader is passionate about walking alongside teens—encouraging them, challenging them, and celebrating the unique gifts and calling God has placed on their lives.

Bridge Youth isn’t just about meetings—it’s about movement. Throughout the year, students have opportunities to serve their community, go on retreats and mission trips, and be part of special events that strengthen their faith and friendships.

Whether you’ve grown up in church or are just beginning to explore faith, Bridge Youth is a place where you belong. Come as you are, bring a friend, and discover what it means to live with purpose, passion, and joy in Christ.

Youth Testimonies

The Bridge Nursery

Birth-5 yrs. : Nursery Class

We provide nursery services to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Parents and caregivers are welcome to bring their children to the nursery room (located at the end of hallway right before the kitchen) before worship begins or any time during worship that their little person needs a break and a room designed for them. Our volunteers have all received background checks and safety training. They design short stories and music circles to immerse our littlest ones in the loving stories of God's Word.

Kingdom Kids

Kindergarten-3rd Grade: Children’s Church

We provide a structured class for elementary aged children that takes place during the sermon time of worship. We encourage children to sit with their parents/families during the music parts of worship. When the service transitions to prayer/scripture/sermon, volunteers will lead children out of the sanctuary and into the children’s class. Our volunteers have all received background checks and safety training. They use a curriculum that enhances the scriptural content from our sermons and allows children (who are still learning to learn) to interact with God’s Word on their level. The same volunteers will lead children back into the sanctuary in time for communion so that families can receive from the Lord’s Table together. 3rd graders “graduate” from children’s church at the beginning of 4th grade in a celebration where they receive their own Bible and join the Junior Youth group.

Youth Connect Junior

4th-6th Grade: Junior Youth

Students in upper elementary/middle school are encouraged to sit together in worship and utilize “sermon notebooks” made for them (located in the youth room at the back of the sanctuary). They can also borrow a Bible from that room. They are invited to return on Sunday nights to join in activities designed with them in mind. The younger youth will combine with older youth to eat together and play games. Then the two groups will separate for Bible study. Junior youth will be guided to use their own Bibles and get acquainted with God’s Word and God’s voice. Occasionally they will be led by volunteer adults who guide them through “fact-seeking missions” designed to teach them how the Bible is structured. Other times they will be led by senior members of the youth group who guide them through reading the Psalms and Proverbs as tools for prayer and leading a godly life. Adult volunteers have received background checks and safety training.

In the spring, Junior Youth are invited to go to Basics of Faith weekend retreat that encourages students to seek a personal relationship with God. After the retreat, 6th graders are paired with a mentor and they are invited to consider their own personal commitment to Christ and possibly receive baptism or confirmation.

6th graders “graduate” from Junior Youth in May of 6th graders and are invited to go to summer camp with the Youth Group (usually in June).

Youth Connect

7th-12th Grade

Join us for our youth group, where we create a fun and engaging space for young people to connect and grow in their faith. Together, we'll explore relevant topics, share experiences, and build lasting friendships. This is a great opportunity to discuss life's challenges and discover how our faith can guide us. Come be a part of a supportive community that encourages each other on our spiritual journeys!