We exist as a student ministry to partner with families in the proper discipleship of their students who will, in turn, make disciples wherever God may lead them.
FIRST TIME GUESTS
We love to have new guests come hang out with Glade Students! On Sundays and Wednesdays, our middle school gatherings are hosted in The District (down the hallway at the opposite end from the Worship Center). We'll make introductions and connections to other students and to leaders in Middle School ministry. Come join in the fun and get ready to study the Word of God!
If you would like to plan a visit with us on either a Sunday or a Wednesday, please email David Watkins and we would love to ensure that your student has the best experience possible.
email David Watkins
MEET DAVID WATKINS
David Watkins is the Middle School Director at The Glade Church. He has been on staff since February 2022, but has been a member at The Glade since 2009. He has worked with students for over 20 years and loves middle schoolers and builds relationships with them through activities on campus and by going to their "turf" and seeing them do the things they enjoy. David is also always ready to share about the good news of Jesus Christ.
David has the pleasure of leading an amazing group of Middle School Leaders. Coming from diverse backgrounds and experiences, each leader brings a unique perspective to the team. Some are parents of students in the ministry, while others are mentors with a passion for walking alongside young people as they grow in their faith. What unites all our leaders is their deep commitment to building strong, Christ-centered relationships with students. They serve as role models, guides, and trusted friends who are always ready to listen, pray, and encourage. Whether leading a small group discussion or worshipping together, these leaders create an environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to live out their faith. Their dedication extends beyond Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. Our leaders consistently invest their time and energy into making sure students not only connect with God but also with each other.
SUNDAY MORNINGS
Sunday mornings are one of our primary gathering times where we meet from 9:15-10:30 AM. Our meetings take place in The District, where we begin with a group rally and announcements that pertain to Middle School Ministry. From there, students divide into grade-level small groups of boys and girls. This is a time for students to develop deep and meaningful relationships with their peers and leaders, share what is going on in each other’s lives. It’s also an opportunity for leaders to invest in students and for everyone to dive into scripture together and spend time in prayer. All of this is done in hopes of engaging your student in a healthy, safe, and thought-provoking environment where they can deepen thier faith.
We study the Bible using a curriculum called "The Gospel Project." A Christ-centered, chronological Bible study that takes our students on a three year journey through the storyline of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation to see how Christ connects with all of Scripture. Along the way, students will discover the big picture of what God has been doing throughout redemptive history, and what it means for them.
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS
At 6:30 PM every Wednesday night during the school year, we host an on-campus worship service for Middle School students that’s designed to help them connect, grow, and have fun. The evening kicks off with hang-out time from 5:30–6:30 PM, giving students a chance to relax, make friends, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. At 6:30 PM, students enter The District for a worship service geared specifically toward them, featuring engaging music, relevant preaching, and opportunities to connect with God and others. The service wraps up at 7:30 PM, and many times we've got some fun planned afterwards too! Whether your student is familiar with church or just checking things out for the first time, we’d love to have them join us for this exciting evening!
FATHER-SON DISCIPLESHIP
These groups exist to glorify God through discipleship of our sons by modeling discipleship of our own. Fathers and mentors will do life together, grow together, and disciple their sons.
Learn More
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LEADERS
Leader Application Form
Family Ministry Safety Manual
APRIL LEADER MATERIAL
Secret Church 2026, led by David Platt
April 17 6pm-midnight
The Glade Church is hosting this event for the Young Adult Ministry and Student Ministry. This is an in-depth Bible Study experience taking place in the Student Life Center for the whole night! Make sure to bring your Bible, a pen, and a hunger for God's Word.
This unique, one-night event offers participants worldwide an immersive, six-hour Bible study experience, delving deeply into the Gospel of Matthew. The gathering emphasizes making one’s life count for what matters most by following Jesus and making Him known. Additionally, attendees will engage in prayer for persecuted Christians in countries like Indonesia, North Korea, and Myanmar.
Middle School and High School Students must have a parent attend with you because of the light-night drive home.
Can't attend for the entire time? Completely fine! Some students have an event the next day and will attend for the first 2 sessions, leaving with a parent half-way through.
DATE: April 17, 2026
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 1, 2026
COST: $20 Buys your booklet guide for the study on Elijah
EVENT DURATION: 6pm-Midnight
Register by April 1
