Lakewood Youth Group Behavior Expectations
1.	Lakewood youth group is a safe place,
This means that teens would ideally be able to attend church, class, trips, fun activities, etc... and expect that they will not be hurt physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Therefore we encourage hugs, smiles compliments, and lots of unconditional love. There are also a few things that are not tolerated: cut downs, gossip, violence, judgmental attitudes, etc... Teens who act this way while with our group are not welcome to be a part of our activities!! The goal of this statement is to provide a place where teens know that they are loved and accepted. Our hope is that when teens feel this safety, they will believe that Christianity is authentic and they will open their hearts to the Lord.
2.   Everyone is welcome
Lakewood youth group is not a "sterile Christian bubble." It is a place where non-believers can come and explore the possibility of having a relationship with God. Therefore, teens who smoke, cheat, lie, drink, take drugs, belong to gangs, disobey their parents, and sleep with their boyfriend/girlfriend are welcome....however, they are not welcome to do these things while they are with our group. Teens who are involved in these things will not be looked down on or treated differently from others. Rather they will be loved, challenged and encouraged to fall in love with Jesus.
3.   Our goal is to become more like Christ
The ultimate purpose for every activity our group does is to help teens fall more in love with God. Every class taught, trip taken and event that is planned should be done with this as the goal either directly or indirectly. Therefore, while on trips or events you will have fun, do exciting things and meet new people (probably even people you are attracted to) but none of these things is the main purpose of our events.
4.   Our group represents Christ
The way our group acts while in public should reflect our church and God. Therefore, our group should act differently compared to other groups. Several ways that we should be different is in our behavior, speech and attitudes toward each other and others. And oh yeah, NO COMPLAINING!!
5.   Miscellaneous rules - No music (CDs or tapes) with violent content, sexual themes, or coarse language, will be played at our activities. While on trips we encourage you to listen to Christian music. Much of your week is spent listening to secular music. While our group is together we want to expose you to great sounding music with a positive message. No video games with violent content, sexual themes, or coarse language. (You are encouraged by the leadership to leave media devices such as, "Gameboys," CD players and the like at home to promote a greater degree of personal interaction). On long trips these are fine but should not be used while at an activity. Seat belts must be used in all vehicles for all activities at all times. No kissing, touching, blah, blah, blah. Dating in the youth group is not discouraged (we hope and pray that you will date and marry a Christian mate). However, youth group events are not "dates." Therefore, a male/female couple are not allowed to be alone in a room, or on a walk or in any other capacity. This is considered a prudent step in promoting sexual purity. We are on these events to get to know Christ better not the opposite sex.  
Be respectful to adults - Participants are expected to recognize the authority and responsibility of the adult leaders by obeying instructions and showing proper respect. This includes the adult leaders of other churches that may be in attendance.
Before most events, general guidelines will be laid out for the group. Anyone who breaks these guidelines (especially Rules # 1-4 listed above), may be dismissed from an activity and sent home at the expense of their parents.
I have read the above guidelines and agree to follow it.
Signed  		Date______________
Name (printed) 	
Parents signature
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