A Peek Into Anthem: What's Coming Up for Parkway's Youth Ministry This Fall?
If you’ve been anywhere near the Parkway Church gym on a Wednesday night, you’ve probably heard the sound of laughter, music, and the unmistakable energy of students doing life together. Anthem, our youth ministry for students in grades 6 through 12, isn’t just a program—it’s a movement. And this fall, things are just getting started.
We caught up with our Anthem pastors, John and Cassidy Gorniak, to hear all about what’s been happening, what’s coming up, and how God is working through the next generation right here at Parkway.
What Is Anthem?
Anthem is Parkway’s vibrant youth ministry designed specifically for students ages 12–18. It’s where faith comes alive in the hearts of young people through community, teaching, worship, and discipleship. Whether students have grown up in church or are just stepping into a relationship with God, Anthem offers a space where they can belong, grow, and thrive.
“We believe it’s the call of God for every student to be a disciple-maker. Their schools are full of young people that need help only Jesus has to offer them.”
What Do Anthem Nights Look Like?
Anthem nights happen every Wednesday at 7:00 PM, but the fun starts early. Students begin arriving at 6:30 to hang out, shoot hoops in the gym, or play ping pong and board games in the youth room. From there, things kick off with an icebreaker game or activity to get everyone engaged and connected.
Then comes the good stuff—powerful lessons from the Word of God and, starting soon, worship led by Anthem’s very own student worship team. Depending on the night, there might be small group discussions or an altar call afterward. And after service, the fun doesn’t stop! Volleyball in the gym has been a big hit lately, and the youth room stays buzzing until the last student leaves.
Every week, Anthem creates a space where students are free to be themselves while being deeply challenged to become more like Jesus.
What Are the Benefits of Students Being Part of Anthem?
Being a teenager isn’t easy, especially in today’s world. But being part of a faith-filled, uplifting community like Anthem gives students the support they need to stand strong.
“It’s so important to be part of a community of believers. Students create lasting friendships that go beyond their time here.”
Students also get to discover their God-given gifts by serving in real ministry roles—running sound, working projection, leading worship, helping in Kidz Parkway, and even assisting in the main sanctuary. And the teaching? It’s real, challenging, and full of encouragement to live boldly for Jesus.
When students plug into Anthem, they gain more than a friend group—they gain a spiritual foundation that will carry them through life.
Anthem Wins This Year
It’s already been an incredible year for Anthem. God is moving powerfully among our youth, and they’re celebrating some major spiritual milestones! So far, two students have been filled with the Holy Ghost and eight have been baptized in Jesus' name. And that’s not all—students are rising up to lead and serve like never before.
“Many students are stepping up to serve in Anthem or in various ways in Kidz Parkway and even the main sanctuary,” John said. “There’s even one student currently starting a P7 Bible Club at their school.”
That’s what happens when students catch the vision—they become world changers, right where they are.
What’s Coming Up for Anthem This Fall?
Anthem’s fall lineup is absolutely stacked with meaningful, fun, and spiritually impactful events:
Parent Night – Wednesday, September 17: This special night invites parents to experience Anthem firsthand and worship alongside their students.
Anthem Bonfire – Friday, October 10: Bonfire, s’mores, hot cocoa… what more could you want? Students should a friend and bundle up!
Youth Rally – Friday, October 24 at Life Point Church in Mukwonago: A powerful night of worship and connection with other youth groups in the area.
Friendsgiving – Wednesday, November 19: A night of food and fellowship in the banquet hall. Students are already picking their dishes!
Youth Rally – Friday, November 21 at Generations Church in Waukesha
Anthem Christmas Party – Wednesday, December 17: White elephant gift exchange anyone?
Wisconsin Youth Convention – December 29–31: This overnight event is one of the highlights of the year. Life-changing services, deep friendships, and unforgettable memories await!
And throughout the school year, Anthem is leaning into a brand-new discipleship series titled Our Mission is Fishin’. It’s a call to action for every student to be a fisher of men.
“This school year, students are being challenged heavily on discipleship and in building relationships that lead into winning friends into the Kingdom,” said John.
This isn’t just a catchy theme—it’s a mission.
Pray for Our Young People!
Anthem is more than a youth group—it’s a launchpad for spiritual transformation, both in the lives of students and in the community around them. As a church, let’s continue to rally behind this ministry in every way we can. Pray for the students walking through our doors each week. Pray for the friends they’re inviting. Pray for their schools, their families, and their futures.
Paul said to Timonthy, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12).
That’s exactly what Anthem is all about—raising up young people to lead, love, and live for Jesus without apology. And the best is yet to come for Anthem!