“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17

“Always be prepared to give an answer… with gentleness and respect.” — 1 Peter 3:15

What is FORGE?

FORGE is our student ministry for grades 6–12 designed to shape resilient, thoughtful followers of Jesus. Like metal refined in a forge, students are strengthened through truth, community, and practice—so they’re ready to stand for Christ with courage and compassion.

• Foundation: A student is Faithful to God, Obedient to His Word, and Rooted in Christ.
• Result: The natural outcome of this foundation is a Godly life.
• Mission: Because of this, the student is Equipped to live and speak for Christ.

Mission

Through weekly Bible-centered teaching, engaging activities, and a supportive community, we help students grow in their relationship with Christ, develop strong minds rooted in truth, and be prepared to give a Godly, loving answer for the hope they have in Him.

Program Goals

1) Know Jesus Personally

Move from “knowing about” Jesus to knowing Him.

Our approach:

• Prayer: Personal prayer habits, group prayer, and simple prayer journaling.
• Bible Engagement: Reading plans, context-first study, and practical application.
• Worship as a Lifestyle: Obedience and gratitude in everyday life—not just music.
• Identity in Christ: Worth and purpose rooted in God’s truth, not shifting culture.

2) Think Critically (Biblical Discernment)

Goal: Recognize truth, evaluate ideas, and engage culture with wisdom.

Our approach:

• Biblical Worldview: See life through Scripture’s lens.
• Truth-Testing Tools: Ask, “What does the Bible say?” “What’s the source?”
• Media & Culture Awareness: Guided conversations about school, social media, and entertainment.
• Case Studies & Role-Play: Practice real-life responses with gentleness and respect.

3) Apologetics (Give a Reason)

Goal: Explain and defend the faith with grace (1 Peter 3:15)—to win people, not arguments.

Our approach:

• Foundations First: Why Genesis 1–11 matters and why the Bible is trustworthy.
• Key Skills: Proper hermeneutics, context, and avoiding adding to or subtracting from Scripture.
• Tough Questions: Thoughtful, biblical responses to common objections.
• Practice: Mock conversations, Q&A, and student-led discussion.

Schedule

Cadence

Sundays (During the School Year)

• FORGE
  Time: 6:00–7:00 PM
  Location: Richland Center Free Methodist Church

Second Sunday of Each Month:

• Christian Skate Night
  Time: 4:30-7:30 PM
  Location: Galaxie Skate Center
  On the second Tuesday of the month, we don’t hold a separate lesson; students are encouraged to come and skate with us and bring friends. Admission is $6 and includes skate rental. Food and drinks are provided by the church.
  (Please ask if you need assistance with admission or transportation - it's a wonderful time and we want everyone to be able to join us!)

Who It’s For

• Students: Grades 6–12 (middle and high school)
• Experience: Whether you’re new to church or grew up in it, you’ll find a place here.

Get Involved

• Students: Just show up on Sundays at 6 PM!
• Parents: Want updates or to serve with FORGE?
  • Email: office@rcfreemethodist.com
  • Phone: (608) 647-4141
  • Or talk to us on Sunday—we’d love to meet you.

Quick FAQ

Do I need to register?
No—students can come any week.

Is there a cost?
No. Some special events may have a small fee; we’ll announce those in advance, and we will work with you to make sure every student can participate.

Can my student bring a friend?
Absolutely—friends are welcome anytime.

What should students bring?
A willing heart! If they have a Bible or a notebook they like to use, bring those along — but don’t worry, we’ll have extras available.