Objective:
The goal for this session is to give the middle school youth an opportunity to grow in community and celebrate Christmas together.
Overview:
Social Nights are a great way to engage the middle school youth. These nights not only break up the catechesis during the semester, but they give the Core an opportunity to practice relational ministry. Social nights also give each of the youth an opportunity to get to know others in their community. They are able to build relationships and friendships.
Social Nights are meant to be fun and light-hearted. Keep everything more simple than normal and really focus on getting to know the youth—especially the youth who are more reserved or new.
Social Nights are also a great way to get parents involved. This night in particular calls for food. Ask parents to donate food and drinks for the night. Not only will it cut costs, but getting the parents invested in the middle school youth will help the youth minister and Core team build relationships with the whole community and family.
This night begins with a friendly gingerbread house building contest. Each small group will be given ingredients to make a gingerbread house. After the allotted time is up, the middle school youth will have an opportunity to vote on the best and most creative house. The night continues with a Christmas movie such as “A Christmas Story.” During the movie, the youth will be able to decorate cookies or play games. The night will end with awarding a prize to the winning group from the gingerbread house contest and a challenge to remember to keep praying for the coming of Christ on Christmas.