Student Ministry Parent Update | June 17 VBS Preparation Night

Michael Gleason • Associate Pastor
June 15, 2026

3 Minute Read

Summer is underway in Student Ministry, and we are excited about the opportunities our students have to grow in their faith, build Christ-centered friendships, and serve others throughout the coming weeks.

One of our goals is to help students move beyond simply attending events and begin actively participating in God’s work. This week’s Student Ministry gathering is a great example of that.

This Week: VBS Preparation Night

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Prince Street Church

Vacation Bible School is one of the largest outreach ministries of the year at Prince Street Church, and our students play an important role in helping make it happen.

This Wednesday, students will help decorate the church and prepare classrooms as we get ready to welcome children and families from our community. Students will also spend part of the evening distributing VBS invitations throughout the neighborhood, helping us personally invite families to join us for this important outreach ministry.

While these may seem like simple tasks, they are opportunities for students to serve others, support the ministry of the church, and participate in sharing the love of Christ with our community.

We encourage all students entering grades 6–12 to join us as we prepare for VBS together.

Why This Matters

At Prince Street Church, we believe discipleship happens through both learning God’s Word and putting our faith into action.

Serving helps students:

  • Develop a heart for ministry.
  • Learn responsibility and teamwork.
  • Build relationships with other students.
  • Discover how God can use their gifts.
  • Experience the joy of serving others in Jesus’ name.

As students help prepare for VBS and invite families from our community, they are participating in a ministry that creates opportunities for children to hear the Gospel and experience the love of Christ.

Looking Ahead

June 22–25

Vacation Bible School

Many of our students will be serving throughout VBS week. Please pray that God would use them to share His love with the children who attend and that many young hearts would hear the Gospel.

July 1

Student Ministry Game Night

A fun evening of games, snacks, fellowship, and friendly competition.

July 8

Mini Golf at Wallace Golf

Students will enjoy an evening of fellowship and mini golf together.

More details for upcoming events will be shared as they approach.

How You Can Pray

As parents, one of the most important ways you can support Student Ministry is through prayer.

Please pray:

  • For students as they serve and invite others to VBS.
  • For families in our community who receive invitations.
  • For the children and families who will attend VBS.
  • For meaningful Gospel conversations throughout VBS week.
  • For students to continue growing in their relationship with Christ this summer.

Thank You, Parents

Thank you for partnering with us in the discipleship of your students.

We count it a privilege to invest in the next generation and are excited to see how God works in and through our students this summer.

If you have any questions about Student Ministry or upcoming events, please contact Pastor Michael.

Prince Street Church Student Ministry
Helping students know Jesus, grow in faith, and live on mission.

Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.

Stay connected by subscribing below so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Student Ministry Updates

By subscribing, you agree to receive email communication from Prince Street Church. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Up Next
From this Author: Michael Gleason
July 1, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
🚗 Help Support Student Ministry Through Fair Parking
Each year, Prince Street Church has the opportunity to serve our community through Fair Parking, and we’d love for you to be part of it! We’ll be providing parking on the corner of Possum Hollow Road during the Shippensburg Fair on: Wednesday, July 22 Friday, July 24 Saturday, July 25 This year, all donations received will directly support the Prince Street Church Student Ministry, helping provide opportunities for students to grow in their faith, build Christ-centered relationships, and serve others. Volunteers Needed We’re looking for volunteers to serve 2–3 hour shifts helping direct parking and welcome guests. It’s a simple way to serve together and make a meaningful investment in the next generation. A sign-up sheet is available at the back of the sanctuary orSign up Here! If you’re able to help, we’d greatly appreciate your willingness to serve. Thank you for your faithful support of the Student Ministry. Your time and service help make a lasting impact on the lives of our students!

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

July 1, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
🚗 Student Ministry Families: We Need Your Help at Fair Parking!
This year, our Student Ministry has an exciting new opportunity to raise funds by serving at Fair Parking during the Shippensburg Fair! On Wednesday, July 22, Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, Prince Street Church will be providing parking on the corner of Possum Hollow Road. Donations received during these days will go directly to support the Prince Street Church Student Ministry, helping provide opportunities for students to grow in their faith, serve others, and participate in future ministry events. We’d Love Your Help! We’re inviting parents and students to serve together during a 2–3 hour shift. It’s a simple way to support Student Ministry while serving alongside your church family and connecting with our community. Whether your family has been involved in Student Ministry for years or you’re just getting connected, we’d love to have you join us. A sign-up sheet is available at the back of the sanctuary, orSign Up Here! you can reach out to me if you have any questions about serving. Thank you for partnering with us as we invest in the next generation. Every volunteer and every donation helps make a difference! — Michael Gleason Pastor of Student Ministries

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 29, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
From Hope to Following the King
This past Sunday we were reminded of the foundation of our hope. Our hope is not in our circumstances, our strength, or our ability to hold on. Our hope is in the risen Christ. Because our hope is in Him, we anchor ourselves in God’s Word. His Word continually points us to Christ, shapes our hearts, and teaches us how to live faithfully in a changing world. Pastor John reminded us that faithful followers of Jesus keep their eyes fixed on Christ, anchor themselves in God’s Word, and trust God with the results. But that naturally leads to another question: What does faithful living actually look like? Faithfulness is more than believing the right things. It is learning to live every part of life under the reign of the right King. That’s where we’re headed over the next three weeks. Beginning this Sunday, we’ll start a new series called Seek First, following Jesus’ teaching from Matthew 6, Matthew 13, and Matthew 7. Together we’ll discover what it means to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom. Week 1 — Seek the Right Kingdom Matthew 6:19–34 What do you treasure? How do you see the world? Where does your allegiance truly lie? Week 2 — Be the Right Soil Matthew 13:1–23 Jesus teaches that the condition of our hearts determines how we receive His Word and whether our lives bear fruit for His Kingdom. Week 3 — Build on the Right Foundation Matthew 7:13–27 Every life is built on something. Jesus calls us not merely to hear His words, but to put them into practice by building our lives on Him. As you prepare your heart this week, spend a few moments reflecting on these questions: What do I value most? How do I see the world? Where does my allegiance truly lie? My prayer is that throughout this series God would continue shaping us—not simply into people who know about His Kingdom, but into people who joyfully live under the loving rule and reign of King Jesus. We’d love for you to join us this Sunday as we begin Seek First. Sunday School: 9:30 AM Worship Gathering: 10:45 AM “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 -Pastor Michael

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 29, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
🎮 Game Night- July 1!
Who’s ready for a night of games, food, and hanging out? This Wednesday, we’re turning the Youth House into game central with board games, card games, video games, and plenty of friendly competition. Whether you’re the strategic type, the Uno champion, or just coming to laugh with friends, there’s something for everyone. 🕕 When & Where Wednesday, July 1 6:00–8:00 PM Youth House Cost: Free 🎲 What to Expect 🃏 Card Games 🎲 Board Games 🎮 Video Games 🍕 Food 😄 Lots of fun with friends 🎒 What to Bring Bring your favorite card game to share with everyone! (Just make sure it’s appropriate for the group.) 👥 Bring a Friend! Everything is more fun with friends! If you know someone who doesn’t normally come to youth group, invite them to join you. It’s a great night to connect, have fun, and get to know our Student Ministry. We can’t wait to see you Wednesday night. Come ready to play, laugh, and spend time together!

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 29, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Parent Update | Student Ministry This Week of June 29-July 5
We’re looking forward to another great week together in Student Ministry! This Wednesday will be a relaxed evening of games, food, and fellowship as students spend time building friendships and enjoying the summer together. We hope your student will join us—and invite a friend! This Week: Game Night Date: Wednesday, July 1 Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Youth House Cost: Free What to Expect We’ll have a variety of: 🎲 Board Games 🃏 Card Games 🎮 Video Games 🍕 Food and snacks 😊 Plenty of fun and fellowship! What to Bring Students are encouraged to bring their favorite card game to share with the group (please make sure it’s appropriate for everyone). Why It Matters Summer is a great time to strengthen friendships and encourage one another in Christ. Nights like these provide opportunities for students to connect, welcome new friends, and continue growing together as a church family in a fun and relaxed environment. Looking Ahead 🎯 Wednesday, July 8 – Mini Golf Night Next week we’ll head out for an evening of mini golf and fellowship! Meet: 5:30 PM at the Youth House Destination: Wallace Mini Golf Return: Approximately 8:30 PM We’ll travel together from the Youth House and return around 8:30 PM. It’s sure to be a fun night of friendly competition and time together. 📅 Wednesday, July 15 – No Youth Group There will be no Student Ministry gathering on July 15. We encourage everyone to enjoy the evening with family, and we’ll look forward to seeing everyone the following week. 🎡 Wednesday, July 22 – Shippensburg Fair Instead of meeting for youth group, we’ll be enjoying the Shippensburg Fair! If you’re at the fair that evening, be sure to find me and say hello! I’d love to connect with our students and families while you’re there. Thank you for partnering with us as we seek to help students know Christ, grow in their faith, and build lasting friendships. We look forward to seeing everyone this Wednesday!

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 23, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Student Ministry Parent Update- Week of June 21-28
Summer is in full swing, and we wanted to send a quick reminder about what’s happening this week and next in Student Ministry. Vacation Bible School This Week Vacation Bible School is taking place Monday through Thursday this week, and many of our students are serving throughout the week in a variety of roles. We are grateful for the students who are investing their time to serve younger children, build relationships, and help share the love of Christ during VBS. Please pray that God would use our students and volunteers to make a lasting impact in the lives of the children attending VBS. We also encourage students and their families to join us for our Church Picnic on Sunday as we celebrate all that God has done through VBS this week and gather together as a church family. No Regular Youth Gathering This Wednesday Because of VBS activities, there will be no regular Wednesday night Student Ministry gathering this week. We encourage our students who are serving at VBS to give their best as they serve and represent Christ throughout the week. Join Us for the Church Picnic This Sunday We would love for your family to join us this Sunday, June 28, for our annual Church Picnic at Shippensburg Township Park on Britton Road. This special day is an opportunity for our church family to worship together, enjoy great food, build relationships, and celebrate what God is doing in our church community—including the impact of Vacation Bible School. Church Picnic Schedule 10:00 AM – Donuts & Coffee 10:45 AM – Worship Service 12:00 PM – Catered Meal 1:00 PM – Scheduled Fun & Activities 2:00 PM – Dessert Whether you’ve been part of Prince Street Church for years or are still getting connected, we’d love to see you there. Don’t forget to bring lawn chairs or blankets for your family. Game Night Next Wednesday Student Ministry returns next Wednesday with our Summer Game Night! 📅 Wednesday, July 1 🕕 6:00–8:00 PM 📍 Prince Street Church Students can expect an evening of games, snacks, laughter, and time together as we continue building Christ-centered friendships throughout the summer. Thank you for partnering with us as we help students know Jesus, grow in their faith, and serve others. Michael Gleason Pastor of Student Ministries

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 22, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Missionary Update: Ruth Riviera in Thailand
This past Sunday, we had the opportunity to hear from Ruth Rivera, a UB Global missionary currently serving in Thailand. Thank you for taking time to learn about her ministry and the work God is doing through her preparation for future Gospel outreach. Ruth, who is from Honduras, is currently living in Bangkok for a year of intensive language and culture study. Her desire is to serve among the nearly 18 million Isaan Buddhists of Northeast Thailand, many of whom have little or no access to the Gospel. If you missed Sunday’s update—or would like to watch it again—we encourage you to view the video below and continue praying for Ruth and the people she hopes to reach with the hope of Christ. Watch Ruth’s UpdateWatch Here About Ruth’s Ministry This season of language and culture learning is an important step in preparing for long-term ministry in Thailand. As Ruth studies, builds relationships, and gains a deeper understanding of the people she hopes to serve, she is laying a foundation for future Gospel conversations and discipleship. Please pray that God would use this season to prepare both Ruth and the people she will serve in the years ahead. How You Can Pray Pray for wisdom, endurance, and encouragement as Ruth continues her language and cultural studies. Pray for steady progress in learning Thai and for opportunities to practice what she is learning. Pray for meaningful friendships and relationships that open doors for Gospel conversations. Pray for spiritual growth and faithfulness during this season of preparation. Pray for the Isaan people of Northeast Thailand, that many would hear and respond to the Gospel. Pray that God would provide opportunities for future ministry and discipleship among those who have little access to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Scripture “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” — Romans 10:15 Join Us in Prayer One of the ways we participate in God’s global mission is through faithful prayer. Thank you for partnering with Ruth as she prepares for long-term ministry in Thailand. Please continue praying that God would strengthen her, provide for her needs, and use her life and ministry to make Christ known among the Isaan people. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

Currently Reading
June 15, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Student Ministry Parent Update | June 17 VBS Preparation Night
Summer is underway in Student Ministry, and we are excited about the opportunities our students have to grow in their faith, build Christ-centered friendships, and serve others throughout the coming weeks. One of our goals is to help students move beyond simply attending events and begin actively participating in God’s work. This week’s Student Ministry gathering is a great example of that. This Week: VBS Preparation Night Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Prince Street Church Vacation Bible School is one of the largest outreach ministries of the year at Prince Street Church, and our students play an important role in helping make it happen. This Wednesday, students will help decorate the church and prepare classrooms as we get ready to welcome children and families from our community. Students will also spend part of the evening distributing VBS invitations throughout the neighborhood, helping us personally invite families to join us for this important outreach ministry. While these may seem like simple tasks, they are opportunities for students to serve others, support the ministry of the church, and participate in sharing the love of Christ with our community. We encourage all students entering grades 6–12 to join us as we prepare for VBS together. Why This Matters At Prince Street Church, we believe discipleship happens through both learning God’s Word and putting our faith into action. Serving helps students: Develop a heart for ministry. Learn responsibility and teamwork. Build relationships with other students. Discover how God can use their gifts. Experience the joy of serving others in Jesus’ name. As students help prepare for VBS and invite families from our community, they are participating in a ministry that creates opportunities for children to hear the Gospel and experience the love of Christ. Looking Ahead June 22–25 Vacation Bible School Many of our students will be serving throughout VBS week. Please pray that God would use them to share His love with the children who attend and that many young hearts would hear the Gospel. July 1 Student Ministry Game Night A fun evening of games, snacks, fellowship, and friendly competition. July 8 Mini Golf at Wallace Golf Students will enjoy an evening of fellowship and mini golf together. More details for upcoming events will be shared as they approach. How You Can Pray As parents, one of the most important ways you can support Student Ministry is through prayer. Please pray: For students as they serve and invite others to VBS. For families in our community who receive invitations. For the children and families who will attend VBS. For meaningful Gospel conversations throughout VBS week. For students to continue growing in their relationship with Christ this summer. Thank You, Parents Thank you for partnering with us in the discipleship of your students. We count it a privilege to invest in the next generation and are excited to see how God works in and through our students this summer. If you have any questions about Student Ministry or upcoming events, please contact Pastor Michael. Prince Street Church Student Ministry Helping students know Jesus, grow in faith, and live on mission. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 11, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Key Policy Update
New Key Policy & Building Rekeying As part of our ongoing commitment to being good stewards of the facilities God has entrusted to us, Prince Street Church will be rekeying the main church building in the near future. In preparation for this transition, the Local Board of Administration has adopted a new Key Policy designed to help maintain the safety, security, and responsible use of our church buildings. Why This Matters Our church facilities are an important resource for ministry, discipleship, and serving our community. Establishing clear guidelines for building access helps us care well for these spaces while ensuring a safe environment for everyone who uses them. We encourage all members and regular building users to take a few moments to review the new policy. How to Review the Policy Copies of the Key Policy are available: At the back of the sanctuary Read the Update Key Policy on the Church Website Questions? If you have any questions about the new policy or the upcoming rekeying process, please contact Pastor John. Thank you for helping us care for and steward the ministry resources God has provided. We appreciate your partnership as we work together to support the mission of Prince Street Church: Praise God, Serve Others, and Cultivate Disciples.

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 8, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Laurel Mission Trip
For nearly 90 years, Laurel Mission has been sharing the hope of Jesus Christ in the Appalachian Mountains of southeastern Kentucky. Their mission is simple and powerful: to help men, women, and children come to know Christ and grow into His likeness through the proclamation of the Gospel and practical acts of love. This August, a team from Prince Street Church will have the opportunity to serve alongside Laurel Mission in Big Laurel, Kentucky. Through a variety of ministries—including construction projects, community outreach, youth ministry, food distribution, and local church partnerships—mission teams help meet practical needs while pointing people to the hope found in Christ. Mission trips are not simply about the work that gets accomplished. They are opportunities to serve, grow, and witness firsthand how God is at work in the lives of people and communities. As we step out in faith, God often uses these experiences to deepen our dependence on Him and expand our vision for His Kingdom. Mission Trip Details 📅 August 8–15, 2026 📍 Big Laurel, Kentucky 🚐 Departing Saturday, August 8 🏠 Returning Saturday, August 15 We are currently gathering those who are interested in being part of the team. Whether you have construction experience, enjoy working with children, or simply have a willing heart to serve, we encourage you to prayerfully consider joining us. How You Can Help Even if you are unable to go, you can still be part of the mission: Pray for the team as preparations begin. Pray for the families and communities served by Laurel Mission. Encourage those who are considering participating. Support the ministry through partnership and generosity. As Jesus reminds us: "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." — Matthew 9:37 Would you prayerfully consider whether God might be calling you to serve?Let us know you're interested!

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 8, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Join us for Men's Breakfast on June 27
Life was never meant to be lived alone. As men, we need brothers who will encourage us, challenge us, pray for us, and walk alongside us as we follow Christ. That's why we invite you to join us for our next Prince Street Church Men's Breakfast on Saturday, June 27, from 8:00–9:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. This is a relaxed morning filled with good food, meaningful conversation, laughter, and encouragement from God's Word. Whether you've attended before or this would be your first time, you'll find a welcoming group of men seeking to grow in their faith and support one another. The breakfast is free, and all men are welcome. Bring a friend, a son, a neighbor, or a coworker and join us for a great morning together. Men's Breakfast 📅 Saturday, June 27 🕗 8:00–9:30 AM 📍 Prince Street Church Fellowship Hall 💲 Free RSVP To help us prepare enough food, please let us know you're coming. RSVP or contact the church office at (717) 532-8404.RSVP HERE Questions? Contact Dod Kiama or Dan Watkins.

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor

June 8, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Church Picnic - June 28
There is something special about gathering around a table, sharing a meal, and spending time together outside the normal rhythms of Sunday morning. That's exactly what our Church Picnic is all about. On Sunday, June 28, we'll gather at Shippensburg Township Park on Britton Road for a morning of worship, fellowship, food, and fun. Whether you've been attending Prince Street Church for years or have only recently connected with us, we'd love for you to join us. We'll begin the morning with Donuts & Coffee at 10:00 AM, followed by our Worship Service at 10:45 AM. After worship, we'll enjoy a catered meal together at noon, followed by games, activities, and plenty of opportunities to relax and spend time with one another. At Prince Street Church, we believe church is more than attending a service—it's being part of a family. Events like our Church Picnic give us the opportunity to strengthen relationships, welcome new faces, and celebrate what God is doing in our church community. Church Picnic Schedule 10:00 AM – Donuts & Coffee 10:45 AM – Worship Service 12:00 PM – Catered Meal 1:00 PM – Scheduled Fun & Activities 2:00 PM – Dessert RSVP To help us prepare for the meal, please RSVP by Sunday, June 21. You can sign up using your Connection Card and indicate the number attending, including the ages of any children who will be joining you.Sign Up Here We hope you'll make plans to join us for a great day of worship, fellowship, laughter, and community. Bring your family, invite a friend, and come enjoy a wonderful day together as the Prince Street Church family. Praise God. Serve Others. Cultivate Disciples.

Michael Gleason

Associate Pastor