Middle School Ministry
6th-8th Grade

We want to mobilize middle school students' and parents' God-given potential to deeply love Christ and their neighbors.

We believe that this happens most effectively through relationships, fun, and biblical teaching. Middle school is a critical time for the development of students and we we want to support parents as the main spiritual influence in their kids' lives.

Worship and grow with us!

Wednesday Morning Program (Summer)

10:00am-Noon · Valley Church Student Ministries Room
June 5, 12, 19, 26 · July 10, 17, 24, 31

During the summer we take a break from Wednesday night programming and move to a more relaxed hang-out time in the middle of the day. Re:Group is like a big small group and all your friends are invited! Snacks will be provided every week. No RSVP is required to attend. Just show up!

Sunday Morning Program (Year-Round)

9:30-10:45am · Valley Community Center Gym

Sunday mornings usually have a large-group format which includes acoustic worship through music. The focus of the morning is the biblically-based teaching time in which we use stories, examples and illustrations that make the lessons relevant for 6th-8th graders.

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Upcoming Events

Thursday, July 18
6:30-8:30 pm

Valley Community Center

See Details
July 26-28

Downtown Des Moines

See Details
Wednesday, August 7
6:30-8:30pm

Valley Community Center

See Details
See all Events

Middle School Ministry Team

Joe Budish

Director of Student Ministries

Ashley Quick

Middle School Associate

“

The Valley Middle School Ministry is the best place to meet other people. Whether it's going to some awesome event like the Blitz All-Nighter or Winter Blast, you're always around good people. I've doubled my friend circle since I've entered the Middle School Ministry.

Levi CooperMiddle School Student
“

The Valley Church Middle School Ministry has been a tremendous partner with us as we seek to raise our kids to love God and love others. It is a great combination of fun and solid biblical teaching. Our kids have developed meaningful relationships with the other students as well as the volunteer leaders.

Michael MiesenParent
“

Valley Middle School Ministry has changed my life completely and for the better! Since 7th grade I have been able to grow relationships with leaders and adults who have become mentors in my life and also make lifelong friends through retreats and serving the community. This ministry had given me an outlet for my faith that’s has made it so I am not only growing in my own faith but helping others to find God.

Addison LustMiddle School Student
“

Valley Middle School Ministry is a gift to my family. It has been a safe, nurturing environment for my kids, where they can ask hard questions, deepen relationships, and grow in their faith in Jesus. Joe is not only a great leader, he is a champion encourager and a valuable resource. Above all, my kids feel loved and connected at Valley. We are so thankful for this ministry.

Sarah HansonParent

Parent FAQs

What programming do you offer for 6-8th grade students in the summer?

We have a Wednesday morning program from 10:00am-Noon in the Valley Church Student Ministries Room and a Sunday morning program from 9:30-10:45am at the Valley Community Center. We also offer various special events for students throughout the year.

Do I need to register my child to attend your programming?

No registration or payment is required for students to attend our Wednesday morning or Sunday morning program. They can just show up and we’ll get them plugged in with other students! Registration and sometimes payment is required for students to attend our special events.

Should I go in with my child the first time they attend programming?

That’s up to you and your child. If your child has been invited by a friend, they can meet up with their friend before entering the building. If your child is coming alone, you are welcome to accompany them into the building. One of our adult volunteer leaders would be happy to meet you and your child and help them get connected with other students right away.

What's the difference between Wednesday mornings and Sunday mornings?

Wednesday mornings are upbeat and relational. Sunday mornings are more relaxed, instructional, and large group-based. If new students were to choose one program, we recommend they start with Wednesday mornings.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Joe Budish and Ashley Quick are the Middle School Ministry paid staff and would be happy to answer your questions. They love connecting with parents! You can either email Joe or email Ashley.