Let’s be honest, social media is the never-ending beast.
You know you SHOULD do it, but it’s always asking for more.
Pair that with the pressure we ALL feel to get more students to attend our events at church, it can be a temptation to simply turn our social channels into event promos.
But you don’t get on social media, personally, for those reasons.
Whether we want to admit it or not, we get on social media to be:
Encouraged
Equipped
Entertained
Which is why I’ve discovered the perfect event promotion ideas for social media, and I’ve created a FREE Download for Youth Pastors, and discussed that in my most recent YouTube video!
And if you’re interested in finding out more about what I’ve got going on on my podcast, you should definitely check out my podcast: Hybrid Ministry.
I heard a youth pastor recently say that youth ministry would be easy if it weren’t for the parents! I know it can often feel like we are ministering to very willing students who are parented by flaky parents. I’ve certainly felt like that over my years of student ministry. But now that I’m getting older and have students in my own ministry, I’m beginning to see that those flaky parents just needed a little help from their youth pastor, especially since that parent is now me!
Here are some tips to help you build strong relationships with parents and better minister to them and their students.
Communicate Well and Often
I have seen youth pastors send out an email that announced for the first time that a retreat was happening in a month and that a $200 per student fee was all it took to sign up! As a parent, I realize I need much more time to plan things! As a youth pastor, try to make sure that you let parents know when big events will be as soon as possible. Fall retreats need to be communicated as soon as summer wraps up. Things happening in the spring should really get communicated in December. Summer camp and mission trips must have save-the-dates sent out sometime in January!
This comes from a parent who loves to hear about things frequently. Don’t just think one email is enough. Communicate regularly! It would be great to send a weekly email to parents reminding them of big and small events and even the teaching series you’ve got going on. The more you communicate, the more trust you build!
Host Parent Meetings
As a parent of teenagers, I can often feel like I’m alone in this endeavor. What helps me out is knowing that other parents are also parenting their students and going through the same struggles as I am! Parent meetings are a great place for parents to see that there are others in their church who are having the same issues.
You can also use parent meetings to remind parents of upcoming big events, let them meet their kids’ small group leaders, and get them involved in what’s happening in the student ministry! I always liked to host these during the big season beginnings—one in the fall, one in the spring, and a much more informal get-together in the summer.
Provide Parents Resources
The most frequent question I would get as a youth pastor from parents was usually something like, “Do you have any resources to help me with…?”
Knowing what resources I could send to parents was such a help for the parents who came up to me at that time. As a youth pastor, you are an expert in students. Because of that, you probably see many resources that deal with what students are going through. Keeping a list on your phone of books, podcasts, and blog articles dealing with specific issues will make you look like a rockstar when a parent has an issue they are struggling with. I have always liked highlighting resources like this during parent meetings and emails!
The more we communicate to parents and show them that we are student ministry experts, the more trust we will build with them as we minister to their students. And the more trust we have with parents, the easier time we will have ministering to their students!
A few months ago, Doug introduced you to one of our favorite Sidekick Heroes: Nick Clason (you can read that post here), and when he said that Nick is a national treasure (no seriously, that’s how Doug described him), he wasn’t joking.
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Nick to talk about all things Sidekick, how to stop seeing cell phones as the enemy, and what it looks like for youth ministry to become a more engaging experience for students. Check it out below:
And if you’re interested in finding out more about what Nick is doing (and you should be), you should definitely check out his podcast: Hybrid Ministry. Here’s where you can find him:
And, who knows? You just might start seeing a bit more of Nick around the blog. So, definitely keep checking back.
If you’re using Sidekick and you run into any issues, or if you just have a question, please feel free to reach out to our support team at: [email protected]. Or you can check out other helpful articles and walkthroughs at the Sidekick Help Desk by visiting https://help.sidekick.tv.
Finally, if you choose to use the new Sidekick… let us know how you do it and what types of polls you do because we want to highlight you. Our goal is to highlight a youth worker every week with different ways they’ve used Sidekick to help their students engage. If you’re interested in being recognized as a Sidekick Hero, just click the big red button below:
If you’re using Sidekick and you run into any issues, or if you just have a question, please feel free to reach out to our support team at: [email protected]. Or you can check out other helpful articles and walkthroughs at the Sidekick Help Desk by visiting https://help.sidekick.tv.
Finally, if you choose to use the new Sidekick… let us know how you do it and what types of polls you do because we want to highlight you. Our goal is to highlight a youth worker every week with different ways they’ve used Sidekick to help their students engage. If you’re interested in being recognized as a Sidekick Hero, just click the big red button below:
It’s that time of the year again, and we couldn’t be more excited to kick off the epicness that is Gold Member Week! Whether you’re a seasoned youth ministry pro or just starting out, there’s something for everyone to love this week.
✨ What’s the Big Deal? ✨
Today, we’re dropping the mic with an unbeatable offer: 50% OFF THE ENTIRE DYM SITE for all our Gold, Gold+, and Platinum members!
🎤💥 That’s right – every resource, every game, every curriculum – HALF OFF! Whether you’re looking to refresh your teaching materials, spice up your small groups, or find that perfect game to energize your next youth night, this is the day to load up your cart and get everything you need for a fraction of the cost!
Why You Can’t Miss This:
Unlimited Access to Premium Resources: DYM is known for its top-tier content that’s both practical and engaging. With 50% off, you can stock up on resources that will equip you and your team for months to come.
Boost Your Ministry Without Breaking the Bank: Let’s be real – youth ministry budgets can be tight. This is your chance to get the best without the stress. With this massive discount, you’re not just saving money; you’re investing in the spiritual growth of your students.
Get Ahead of the Game: Start planning now for the next season, series, or event. From killer sermon series to interactive small group discussions, the possibilities are endless when you’re armed with the right tools. And with today’s discount, you can grab it all!
🎉 Don’t Wait – The Countdown is On! 🎉
This deal is only for today, so don’t sleep on it! Log in, load up your cart, and prepare to make this season of ministry the most impactful yet.
Not a Gold Member yet? No worries! There’s still time to level up and join the club where the perks just keep getting better. Trust us, this is just the beginning of what Gold Member Week has to offer.
Happy Shopping, DYM Heroes! Your students and your future self will thank you. 🚀
P.S. Keep your eyes peeled for more surprises throughout the week. We’ve got some incredible deals lined up just for you. Stay gold, stay epic, and let’s make this week unforgettable!
As the new school year kicks off, it’s a great time to help your students set meaningful spiritual goals. The start of a new year brings fresh opportunities for growth and reflection. Here’s how you can guide your students in setting and achieving their spiritual goals for the year ahead.
Begin by hosting a goal-setting workshop. Gather your students and provide a space for them to reflect on their personal faith journeys. Encourage them to think about what they want to achieve spiritually over the coming year. Whether it’s developing a daily prayer habit, reading through the Bible, or growing in a specific area of their faith, help them articulate clear and achievable goals. Provide resources and tools, like goal-setting worksheets or journals, to support them in this process.
Next, pair students with accountability partners or small groups. Having someone to share their goals with can provide motivation and support. Create a system where students can check in regularly with their partners or small group members to discuss their progress, share challenges, and celebrate successes. This not only helps them stay accountable but also fosters a sense of community and encouragement.
Finally, establish a system for tracking and celebrating progress. Regularly check in on the students’ goals and celebrate their milestones. You could implement a progress tracking system using journals, apps, or a bulletin board where students can mark their achievements. Host milestone celebrations or recognition events to acknowledge their hard work and progress. This will help keep students motivated and focused on their spiritual growth throughout the year.
By guiding your students in setting spiritual goals, providing accountability, and celebrating their progress, you can help them make the most of the new school year and grow in their faith. Here’s to a year filled with spiritual growth and achievements!
As summer fades and fall approaches, it’s time to focus on recharging and revitalizing your leadership team. After a busy few months, it’s essential to come together, refresh, and prepare for the exciting opportunities the fall season brings. Here’s how you can get your team ready to make the most of the new season ahead.
First up: consider hosting a team retreat. A retreat provides a valuable opportunity for your team to step away from daily responsibilities and focus on strategic planning and team building. Set clear goals for the retreat, whether it’s to brainstorm new ideas, strengthen team bonds, or simply reflect on past experiences. A mix of work and fun is crucial – balance strategic sessions with team-building activities and informal gatherings. This way, you’ll not only plan effectively but also recharge everyone’s enthusiasm for the fall.
Next, invest in your team’s development. Offering training and development opportunities can significantly impact your ministry’s success. Organize workshops on leadership skills, conflict resolution, or program planning, and consider bringing in guest speakers to provide fresh insights. Share resources like books or online courses to encourage continuous learning and personal growth. Additionally, encourage peer learning through mentoring or group discussions. Learning from each other can be incredibly valuable for building a stronger, more capable team.
Lastly, focus on building a strong sense of community among your leaders. Regular check-ins are essential for maintaining open communication and addressing any concerns. Schedule frequent meetings to discuss progress, celebrate achievements, and ensure everyone feels heard and supported. Plan team-building activities and social events outside of work to deepen relationships and foster a collaborative environment. Don’t forget to show appreciation for your team’s hard work – small gestures of gratitude can go a long way in boosting morale and maintaining enthusiasm.
By focusing on these strategies – retreats, training, and community building – you can set your leadership team up for a successful and fulfilling fall season. Let’s embrace the new season with renewed energy and excitement!
Need some help getting your fall off the ground? Check out Co-Leader! It’s a great way to supercharge your fall!
Can you believe summer is already wrapping up? It feels like just yesterday we were gearing up for camp and mission trips. As we bid farewell to those sunny days, it’s time to shift our focus to the fall season. Here are some tips and strategies to help make that transition smooth and successful for your ministry.
Program Planning: Keeping the Momentum Going
First things first, let’s talk about planning. Transitioning from the relaxed vibe of summer to the busier fall schedule can be a bit tricky, but with some thoughtful planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to plan your fall programs. Start brainstorming and organizing well in advance. This gives you plenty of time to fine-tune details and address any potential hiccups.
Consistency is Key: Keep some of the successful elements from your summer programs. If a particular small group format or event worked well, consider incorporating it into your fall schedule.
Get Input: Involve your team and even your students in the planning process. Fresh ideas and perspectives can lead to innovative programs that resonate well with everyone.
Engaging New Students: Making Them Feel at Home
Fall often brings new faces to our youth groups – new students starting high school, kids moving into the area, or those just curious to check out what we’re all about. Making them feel welcome is crucial.
Warm Welcome: Create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment they walk in. Friendly greeters, a tour of your space, and introducing them to current students can make a big difference.
Icebreakers: Plan some fun icebreaker activities to help new students feel comfortable and start building relationships. Games, small group discussions, or team-building activities are great for this.
Buddy System: Pair new students with a “buddy” from your current group who can show them the ropes and be a friendly face they can turn to.
Parent Involvement: Building a Supportive Community
We all know that parents are key partners in ministry. Keeping them in the loop and encouraging their involvement can enhance your ministry’s impact.
Clear Communication: Send out a detailed calendar of fall events and programs. Consider using newsletters, emails, or even a dedicated app to keep parents informed.
Volunteer Opportunities: Invite parents to get involved in various ways, whether it’s helping with events, leading small groups, or simply providing snacks. Their involvement can enrich the experience for everyone.
Parent Meetings: Host a few parent meetings throughout the fall to discuss your plans, gather feedback, and address any concerns. This shows that you value their input and partnership.
Transitioning from summer to fall doesn’t have to be daunting. With a bit of planning, a focus on welcoming new students, and strong parent involvement, your ministry can smoothly shift into a new season full of growth and excitement. Here’s to an amazing fall!
Want to train your volunteers for the Fall in the best way possible? Let’s go! Check out the National Day of Volunteer Training below!
As we transition from summer to fall, it’s a great time to reflect on the experiences and lessons we’ve gathered over the past few months. Here’s some advice on how you can use the summer’s growth and experiences to strengthen your ministry year-round:
Student Testimonies: Harnessing Stories of Faith and Transformation
One powerful way to inspire your youth group is by sharing student testimonies. Here are a few ways to effectively incorporate these stories:
Encourage Sharing: Create opportunities for students to share their faith journeys, whether through dedicated testimony nights or casual discussions. Hearing peers speak about their experiences can be incredibly motivating for other students.
Document Experiences: Collect and document testimonies from summer camps, mission trips, and small groups. Written or video testimonies can be shared during fall events or posted on your ministry’s social media to highlight the transformative power of your programs.
Reflect on Growth: Use these testimonies as a starting point for discussions about personal growth and spiritual development. Reflecting on how students have grown over the summer can set the stage for continued growth in the fall.
Volunteer Highlights: Recognizing and Empowering Your Team
Your volunteers play a crucial role in your ministry’s success. Here’s how you can celebrate and empower them:
Showcase Dedication: Regularly recognize and celebrate the efforts of your volunteers. Highlight their contributions in newsletters, during services, or on social media. This not only shows appreciation but also motivates others to get involved.
Foster Creativity: Encourage volunteers to bring their creative ideas to the table. Whether it’s planning events or developing new programs, their unique perspectives can lead to innovative and engaging ministry opportunities.
Provide Support: Ensure your volunteers feel supported and valued. Offer training sessions, regular check-ins, and opportunities for feedback. A well-supported volunteer team is more effective and enthusiastic.
Key Takeaways: Applying Summer Lessons to Future Ministry
Reflecting on the lessons learned during the summer can help shape your ministry moving forward. Here are some key takeaways to consider:
Build Connections: Focus on building strong, personal connections with your students. Encourage small group participation, one-on-one mentoring, and casual hangouts to foster a sense of community and belonging.
Embrace Flexibility and Creativity: Be open to new ideas and adaptable in your planning. Flexibility allows you to respond to the evolving needs of your students, while creativity can lead to more engaging and memorable experiences.
Intentional Spiritual Growth: Design programs with intentional opportunities for spiritual growth. Incorporate prayer workshops, Bible studies, and service projects that challenge and inspire students to deepen their faith.
By reflecting on and applying these lessons, you can create a thriving ministry that nurtures the faith and growth of your students throughout the year. Let the successes and experiences of the summer guide and inspire your plans for the fall and beyond.
Need something to really help you get kickstarted with Fall? Check out DYM’s free customizable Fall Calendar!
As youth pastors, we know summer can be one of the busiest times of the year. Between camps, mission trips, and events, getting lost in the hustle and bustle is easy. Taking time for a self-check-in is essential to stay healthy, spiritually nourished, and effective in your ministry. You can’t serve from a place of complete burnout and exhaustion. It’s also near impossible to help others connect with God when you feel far from Him because you’re so busy serving.
Here are three steps to help you do just that:
1. Reflect and Reconnect with God
Why It’s Important: Your spiritual health is the foundation of your ministry. It’s challenging to pour into others effectively without a strong connection to God.
How to Do It:
Set Aside Quiet Time: Carve out at least 15-30 minutes daily to pray, read Scripture, and meditate on God’s word. This can be early morning, during a lunch break, or in the evening.
Journaling: Write down what God is teaching you during this season. Reflect on His faithfulness and any areas where you feel He’s leading you to grow.
Worship: Listen to worship music or sing your favorite hymns. Let the lyrics remind you of God’s goodness and sovereignty.
Pro Tip: Don’t see this as another task on your to-do list. It’s a vital time to refill your spiritual tank and hear from God amidst the busyness.
2. Evaluate Your Physical and Emotional Health
Why It’s Important: Your body and mind are instruments for God’s work. Neglecting your physical and emotional well-being can lead to burnout and affect the effectiveness of your ministry.
How to Do It:
Physical Health Check: Assess your current health habits. Are you getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly? Small adjustments can significantly affect your energy levels and overall well-being.
Emotional Health Check: Reflect on your emotional state. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or joyful? It’s okay to acknowledge your feelings. Talk to a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor if you need support.
Rest and Recharge: Schedule downtime to rest and do things you enjoy. Whether reading a book, hiking, or spending time with family, prioritize rest.
Pro Tip: Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s essential. You can’t serve others well if you’re running on empty.
3. Reassess Your Ministry Goals and Priorities
Why It’s Important: During a busy season, losing sight of your ministry’s overarching goals is easy. Reassessing ensures you stay aligned with your mission and make the most impact.
How to Do It:
Review Your Goals: Review the goals you set at the beginning of the summer. Are you on track? Do any goals need to be adjusted or prioritized differently?
Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate the successes and progress made, no matter how small. This can boost morale and provide encouragement to keep going.
Delegate and Collaborate: Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to your team or involve volunteers more. Empowering others lightens your load and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
Pro Tip: Keep a flexible mindset. Ministry is dynamic, and sometimes plans need to change. Be open to where God is leading, even if it’s different from your initial plan.
Taking time for a summer check-in can rejuvenate your spirit, mind, and body, enabling you to serve more effectively and joyfully. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Lean on God and your community, and take care of yourself to continue to pour into the lives of the youth you minister to.
Summer is wild! You may be reading this from your summer camp bunk or on a mission trip in another country. You may even read this after finishing up a wild week and needing a pick-me-up.
So, why am I encouraging you to start recruiting fall leaders right now? Don’t you have enough to do already?
The reality is that people will commit to things in the fall long before you start your first small group meeting. They may even be committed to things before school starts for their kids! Locking down volunteers right now will ensure that you’ve got the leaders you need to make ministry great this next season!
And you can start recruiting by asking just three questions:
Who has been hanging around?
Whenever you have an event or start your summer programming, who are the adults that seem to be hanging around? Sometimes, you can identify a potential leader just because they hang out with students without being asked to! This doesn’t mean parents who throw their students out of the car while the wheels are still spinning make great volunteers, but parents who stick around and chat should definitely be on your radar!
Who do the students gravitate to?
In the same vein, who do your students normally move towards? This might be a parent hanging out or a college leader stopping by the student ministry to check out what’s going on. If your students are already gravitating towards this potential leader, why wouldn’t you keep track of them and put them through your volunteer process?
Who do your leaders speak highly of?
Leaders recruit leaders! People know that you are supposed to be gathering a team of ministry volunteers, but what about your leaders, who are around all the time? Who do they know in your church that might be a good fit for student ministry? Ask around and see who your leaders would recommend. You might be surprised at who they already have in mind!
Get ready to train them!
These aren’t the end-all or an automatic pass for volunteers! You’ll still need to meet with them, vet them, and train them to make sure they help the student ministry grow! Speaking of training, have you heard of DYM’s amazing training?
This Fall, kick off your ministry year with a customizable video-driven, fun, and helpful event, with practical youth ministry training for your volunteer youth workers. It’s packed with energy, discussion time, and fun-filled “we get you” memorable moments, and over the last 5 years we’ve trained 70,000+ volunteers!
