student ministry leadership

Most adults, including parents, are apprehensive about interacting with a group of youth in “ministry”.  That’s because most think it requires them to be knowledgeable (experts) about the Bible and be able to answer all the youth’s questions.  That’s the first misconception that has to be explained away as a starter in any recruiting discussion.  They need to understand why you need them as a volunteer. What do most youth need today?  Adults to be present, to ask them about their lives, to listen, and to “see” each of them.  This lets the youth know they matter.  Volunteers can show them this because they know their names and ask about what’s going on in their lives.  Adults that show up … Read more

It’s convenient as a Youth Ministry Director to try to do it all yourself.  Because, that’s a quick fix to getting things done.  And it’s your job, right?  You have the passion.  You have the energy.  But the long term result of this approach is burnout and a small group of youth that rely only on you.  That’s limiting. Doing it yourself is an approach that has you ignoring the Way Jesus modeled.  If doing it yourself was the Christian model, then why did Jesus call and equip disciples? Jesus invited disciples to join him in his ministry.  Why did he do it?  Why should you invite adult volunteers to join you in youth ministry?   Make a list of the … Read more