The Students LAUNCH program equips high school upperclassmen to follow Jesus and lead others for the glory of God's kingdom. Current high school juniors are eligible to apply, and the program begins in the spring of their junior year and continues through their senior year!
Program Overview
LAUNCH is an 18-month leadership program designed to prepare high school upperclassmen to be lifelong disciples of Jesus and emerging Christian leaders wherever God calls them after graduation. The program is cohort-based and leverages curriculum, mentoring, ministry experiences, and more to help students prepare for Christian life in the real world. Participants will take part in weekly readings and homework assignments, monthly seminars, service projects, special events, retreats, and trips throughout the duration of the program!
Core Objectives & Elements of Discipleship
- Worship and service: know how to engage the local and global church beyond The Austin Stone
- Called to more: embrace being one who is “sent” by The Austin Stone
- Equipped: have a firm theological and practical foundation for the next stage of life
- Community: experience a vibrant Christian group
- Leadership development: practice and experience exercising Christian leadership
Program Details & Expectations
The program kicks off in January 2025 and ends with an international mission trip in the summer of 2026. We'll gather on the fourth Sunday of each month from 1-4pm.
At each meeting, students will work together through our course materials, learn from a church leader on a particular subject, or participate in activities that help foster a deeper assurance and faith in God. They'll also learn how to respond to the conflicting worldviews and hard questions they'll encounter as they launch into the world after graduation. Some months will also include special trips or service projects to help students cultivate a missionary and service mindset.
Curriculum
The core curriculum for this program will be The Austin Stone Institute’s Foundations of Faith: Cultivating the Christian Life Through Study and Practice. This book helps prepare students for the adventurously expectant Christian life. Spanning 10 sessions, this rich resource covers foundational truths about God and our identity in Him.
We’ll also hear from various speakers on topics like:
- Traditional & Cultural Apologetics
- Relationships, Sexuality, & Dating
- God's Providence
- Financial Management
- Christian Leadership
- The Gospel-Centered Life
