The first step on the Milestone pathway is Family Commitment. Family Commitment is a fundamental first step on the Milestone journey, and it is for new parents and those with children new to the Milestone pathway.

New parents are invited to attend a Family Commitment seminar, where they will learn how to become the primary disciple-makers for their children and accept that responsibility.

During one of our corporate gatherings, we will host an intentional time of dedication where the parents make this public commitment. In turn, our church family commits to walk with this family in what it means to live out this commitment to Intentional Discipleship.

Perhaps the most critical milestone for anyone, regardless of age, is Faith Commitment, which includes both salvation and baptism. At Mars Hill Church, we recognize that salvation is a personal decision that can happen at any stage of life, from children to adults. We intentionally place Faith Commitment as our second milestone because we believe this is a crucial time for parents to begin having critical gospel conversations with their children. We partner with and equip parents to guide their children toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, prayerfully leading them toward salvation. Since each child’s journey of faith is unique, we understand that growth in faith looks different for everyone.

When parents feel that their child understands the concept of salvation and is ready to make that commitment, we encourage them to attend one of our Mars Kids Baptism classes.

As a church, we set aside time during our Sunday services to celebrate the baptism of believers—both young and old—within our church family.

Preparing children spiritually, emotionally, and physically for adolescence is one of the most important tasks for parents and the church. Between the ages of 9 and 12, children are on the cusp of significant change, and it’s crucial that we help equip parents to intentionally guide their children as they prepare for the teen years ahead. During this time, we focus on laying a strong foundation for their faith, identity, and character.

At Mars Hill, we believe it’s equally important to create intentional moments for children at this stage to begin forming a gospel-centered community. Through a combination of fun activities, relationship-building opportunities, and spiritual guidance, we provide environments where kids can connect with others, build lasting friendships, and grow in their understanding of God’s love and purpose for their lives. These moments foster a sense of belonging and encourage them to live out the gospel in their everyday lives.

We also encourage parents to focus on shaping their child's identity and character through various resources, seminars, and support. We provide tools and opportunities to help parents foster an environment where their children can grow in godly character, explore their faith, and begin living it out in meaningful ways. By equipping parents with practical guidance and biblical wisdom, we aim to support them in this critical stage of their child’s development.

During the ages of 10 to 12, it becomes increasingly clear that we must address the biblical understanding of sexuality and purity. As children begin to navigate the complexities of adolescence, it’s important that they understand God’s design for relationships, holiness, and identity. The Family Discipleship Ministry at Mars Hill partners with parents to teach students the value of accountability, healthy friendships, and biblical standards for purity. However, we believe it is far more impactful for students to learn these principles directly from their parents.

We strongly encourage parents to engage in these critical conversations early, laying a foundation of biblical wisdom and grace that can guide their children through the challenging middle school years and beyond. We coach parents to incorporate these discussions into regular faith talks and intentional conversations at home—whether before entering Middle School or throughout their child's time in Middle School. To support parents in this important role, we offer a variety of resources and seminars designed to equip them with the tools and confidence needed to navigate these conversations effectively. By partnering with parents, we aim to ensure that students hear these important messages consistently, both at church and within the home.

The transition from childhood to adulthood is a pivotal moment in a young person’s life. Biblically, it is essential that we equip our children to become godly men and women. At age 16, a significant milestone of freedom is reached in our culture. Mars Hill Church supports parents in celebrating this important step by guiding them to host a meaningful "Rite of Passage" ceremony. This ceremony marks the continuation of the discipleship journey as the student enters their 16th year, helping to solidify their faith and identity as they move into adulthood.

To further equip parents and their teens during this milestone, we provide resources specifically written by our church. These resources help facilitate meaningful conversations and reflection as families celebrate this important step in the discipleship process. We also offer ideas and additional events to help make the celebration of this milestone even more impactful, providing opportunities for families to engage and reflect together in meaningful ways.

Between the ages of 16 and 18, parents play a vital role in helping their students develop both practical and spiritual skills in preparation for life beyond home. At Mars Hill, we partner with parents to equip them for this crucial stage, guiding their students as they prepare to step into the world outside the nest. This can be a healthy and impactful time for the family when parents maintain open lines of communication with their students, addressing topics such as basic apologetics, dating and marriage, discerning God’s will, life skills for living independently, and other key biblical principles. Parents and students will be encouraged to access resources that help guide their conversations and challenge growth in these areas. Seminars and events will also be provided to facilitate meaningful times of challenge and discussion.

As part of this important transition, Mars Hill celebrates the achievements of students as they prepare for the next phase of life. We host a special Graduate Banquet, providing a time for families to celebrate their student’s accomplishments together. Additionally, we acknowledge this milestone in a public celebration before the church, honoring the student's growth and encouraging them as they step into adulthood.

Life in Christ is a journey of following Jesus. It begins with a relationship with Him and grows as we continue to walk with Him. John 15 shows us that this journey is filled with purpose and leads to eternity with Jesus. Every believer, no matter their stage in life, is called to remain in Christ and grow in His image. This growth is not only possible but expected as we continue to follow Him.

At Mars Hill, we believe that opportunities for growth and discipleship are found in many ways. One of the most prominent ways to deepen your faith is by joining a Community Group, where you can experience authentic Gospel community. We also encourage participation in events and seminars designed to foster relationships and teach important biblical truths. Additionally, serving as an active part of the body of Christ and living out the gospel in your everyday life—whether at home, work, or in your community—are essential expressions of faith that help spread God’s love and truth.