Our programs are uniquely geared toward the interests and attention spans of our junior high students. Through our ministry, junior highers get to experience and explore God’s love for them in interactive and enjoyable activities. We are committed to making the church experience a good one!
At NXT JHI, our aim is to help students connect with other students, with an adult leader and with God. We’re here to invite you to take steps towards spiritual growth. Wherever you are on your journey of faith, we want to help you know God better.
Check it out! Throughout the year, we have many fun events that are specifically designed for junior highers. NXT JHI meets for Grade Groups on Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and also on Sundays at 8:45 and 10:45 a.m.
Take a 360 degree tour
of the Jr. High Room
email NXT JHI
call NXT JHI: 630-585-3294
NXT JHI Baptism
- Saturday, Mar. 24, 6:00 pm
(grades 6-8) - We will be holding a special baptism following the 5:00pm service on Saturday, March 24 for students in 6th-8th grade! If you haven’t been baptized in water yet, this is a great opportunity for you! Sign up by Sunday, March 11!
NXT Sunday morning
9 & 11 a.m.
Jr. High Room 550
This service is uniquely geared toward the interests and attention spans of our students. Junior highers get to experience and explore God’s love for them in an interactive and enjoyable church service. We are committed to making the church experience a good one!
Grade Groups
Wednesdays, 7 p.m.
Jr. High Room 550
Grade Groups are a great place for students to ask questions, discuss their faith and make friends. These gender-specific small groups connect each student with a caring adult leader.
If you are a junior higher wanting to become involved in Grade Groups, this is what we ask you to commit to:
Prepare to Participate
Interaction is a key to a good small group. Talking too little will make it hard for others to get to know you. Everyone has something to contribute—yes, even you! But participation doesn't mean domination, so be careful not to monopolize the conversation! Most groups typically have one conversation hog, and if you don't know who it is in your small group, then it might be you. Here's a tip: You don't have to answer every question and comment on every point. Try to find a balance between the two extremes.
Be Consistent
A healthy Grade Group takes time to grow. Quality time is great, but a great quantity of time is probably better. Commit to your group to show up every week, even if you don't feel like it. When you make it a high priority to commit to your small group, then you're sure to build meaningful friendships. Whatever it takes, BE THERE!
Practice Honesty and Confidentiality
Strong friendships are only as solid as the trust that they are built upon. Although it may be difficult, take a risk and be honest with your answers. God wants you to be known by others! Then respect the risks that others are taking and offer them the same love, grace, and forgiveness God does. Make confidentiality a non-negotiable value for your small group. Nothing kills community like gossip.
Arrive Ready to Grow
You can always arrive prepared by praying ahead of time. Ask God to give you the courage to be honest and the discipline to respect others. If you aren't interested in growing spiritually, then maybe Grade Groups aren't for you. You can try another NXTJHI activity.
