forming next generation followers of Jesus in a small group culture by being, becoming, and doing
Summer with OSM
We pause regular programming throughout the summer to give our leaders and students a break! Instead, we meet periodically throughout the summer to have connection-focused events. We do everything from backyard campfires to summer camp and mission experiences.
To follow along more closely with these opportunities, follow us on social media!
Student Ministry Calendar
1 – Sunday Hangout, 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
13 – HS Omaha Trip
25 – Backyard Hangout, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
6-12 – HS camp
16 – Backyard Hangout, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
20-26 – MS Camp
6 – MS Ripple Effect
17 – Sunday Hangout, 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
What to expect in the school year...
We meet every Wednesday from 6:30-8pm with the exception of holiday breaks. Our monthly rhythm is as follows:
– The first Wednesday of the month is a Gathering Night
– The following Wednesdays of the month are Small Group Nights
A typical Gathering Night
The west doors of our building will open at 5:30 PM—an hour before the main event begins! Students can check in at the large desk in the Lobby and spend time enjoying free snacks, playing 9 Square, catching up with friends, racing in Mario Kart in the youth room, or getting some homework done before the countdown ends at 6:30 PM.
The night will include large group games, worship through music and prayer, table conversations with peers, and a message from one of our communicators as we kick off a new series. This is the only Wednesday night where middle school and high school students will be combined—creating a fun, high-energy environment that extroverts will love… and don’t worry, introverts will too!
A typical Small Group Night
This is where authentic relationships rooted in Jesus come to life!
Middle school students will meet in the Middle School Youth Room on the first floor at 6:30 PM. The evening kicks off with a game, announcements, and a teaching video that continues the message series introduced during the gathering night. Afterward, students head to the 4th floor for small groups—a space to connect more deeply with their peers and adult small group leaders.
High school students will gather in the High School Youth Room on the 4th floor at 6:30 PM for announcements and the week’s teaching video. Following that, they’ll break into small groups to dive deeper in conversation with their circle of peers and leaders.
Please note: All students must enter through the west doors and check in at the desk. Doors open every Wednesday at 5:30 PM!
Our Strategy
Forming next-generation followers of Jesus in a small group culture by being with Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing as Jesus did.
Let’s break that down…
We believe that every person and part of our ministry is formational in the lives of teens and has been entrusted to us by God.
Because of that, we meet in small groups where our efforts are aimed at connecting teens to a circle of trusted peers and adults who want to follow Jesus with every part of their lives.
Being with Jesus is to create intentional space to be in His presence.
Becoming like Jesus is to be formed by what He did.
Doing what Jesus did is to follow with your actions.
This is not a formula for an A+ relationship with Jesus, but rather a cycle that we believe, if done with a deep love and intention, will form teens into individuals who look more like Jesus!
*This discipleship strategy of being, becoming, and doing was adopted from Spiritual Formation author and theologian John Mark Comer in his book Practicing the Way.
Meet the Team
Kendra Johnson
Student Ministry Director
Kendra is a Sioux Falls area native and a 2025 graduate of the University of Sioux Falls, where she earned a degree in Theology and Youth Ministry. She has a big heart for Gen Z—especially those who haven’t had an accurate picture of who Jesus really is.
When she’s not at OSM, you’ll likely find Kendra doing something creative—snapping photos, working on a new painting, or making TikToks. She also loves spending time outdoors and being with the people she cares about most.
Her favorite part of the job? Meeting with people! So don’t hesitate to reach out and set up a time to connect—she’d love to hear your story.
Small Group Leader Team
We believe that the influence of the family and the local church in the life of a teenager is better together than alone.
Our team is prepared and ready to serve our students and families. Our preparation includes:
– Background checks
– Three trainings in August
– Monthly hangouts for training and prayer
Families, thank you for checking out One Student Ministry!
Our team desires to partner with your family by mentoring, leading, and helping your student take next steps toward Jesus as they walk through their time in middle school and high school. Thank you for trusting us to invest in your student!