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1 Jul 2024

You Will Always Be Their Youth Pastor

By Ronald|2024-07-01T05:51:34-07:00July 1st, 2024|Youth Ministry Ideas|6 Comments

I had a former student from my previous church reach out to me. That may not be the biggest deal, but the last time I was in a youth room with this student was about 15 years ago and four states away.

He thought of me because of how I ministered to him in his teenage years. I had impacted him, and because of that impact, he wanted to reach out to me when he needed some encouragement and direction.

No matter why you are no longer the youth pastor at your previous church, the students you ministered to will consider you their youth pastor. It doesn’t matter if you were promoted, fired, or moved across the country. There will be students who think back to their youth group days and think of YOU as their youth pastor.

So what can you do when those students reach back out to you?

Pray for Them

Usually, former students reach out because they need some spiritual direction. In this time of searching, remember to take some time to pray for them. This may seem secondhand to some, but for those of you who may no longer be at a church but instead work in a different field, it may not be as intuitive.

We talk about our students being missionaries at their school. We encourage them to pray for their friends, teachers, coaches, etc. We may forget this for ourselves when we’re no longer working at a church.

Remember that these students see you as their spiritual leader. Or, at the very least, remember you as such. Take this opportunity to lead them spiritually!

Be Their Cheerleader

Have you ever reached out to a friend or family member for help in a time of need? What did you need from them? Hope? Wisdom? Love? Encouragement?

Probably a little bit of all of those.

Take this opportunity to be your former student’s cheerleader!

They may have reached out to you during real pain, worry, anxiety, or fear. Encourage them in their time of need!

Remind them how much God loves them, that you love them, and that you are on their team.

Help Them Get Connected

The former student who reached out to me sought consistent spiritual guidance. Now, in the time of Zoom and FaceTime and all the ways we get connected, I could have offered them all of those things.

But I know what I need when I have been in those dark times.

I needed people.

Face to face, knee to knee, toe to toe people.

I hit up my buddy, who is still serving in that area. I told him I had been contacted by a student and asked if he’d be willing to meet. And I ask the student if he’d be willing to hang with a friend of mine.

Everybody was.

It’s a great idea to try to stay in contact with pastors and mentors in your previous church if you can. So that when a former student reaches out, you can connect them to people who can actually meet face-to-face.

And if you’re still in the area, arrange a coffee and hang out in person!

There’s something about face-to-face, in-person time together that can’t be beat.

Point Them to Jesus

You served this student as their spiritual leader for a time. That’s probably why they are reaching out to you specifically. When you were their spiritual leader, it was your job to point them to Jesus. It’s still the best thing you can do!

Whether they are far from God or just feeling that way, take some time to point them back to their Savior. Remind them how much Jesus loves them and encourage them with the good news of the Gospel.

Not platitudes or pithy sayings.

The real person of Christ.

Read Scripture over them. Remind them of what Jesus did in His day and what He’s doing right now.

That’s the best thing you can do as a spiritual guide and mentor!

Keep At It

I got a text yesterday from the pastor I had connected my former student to. They had made the decision to get baptized! I was so grateful for the church as I watched my former student get baptized by the pastor who replaced the pastor who replaced me.

We’re not in ministry to bring ourselves glory.

We’re in ministry to point others to Jesus.

And it was a beautiful moment to be a part of.

Remember: you’ll always be someone’s student pastor or youth minister.

When they reach out to you, point them to Jesus and be grateful for the time you have been given to minister to them!

25 Sep 2023

How to Follow up Volunteer Training

By Ronald|2023-09-25T12:49:52-07:00September 25th, 2023|Leadership|1 Comment

We all know that training is a crucial step in equipping our volunteer leaders for effective ministry. It’s a time to share knowledge, build skills, and connect with one another. But what happens after the training? Well, that’s where the magic really starts to happen! Once a great training, like the National Day of Volunteer Youth Ministry Training concludes, what do you do next?

1. Express Gratitude

First and foremost, let’s express our sincere appreciation to our volunteer leaders. Tell them how grateful you are for their commitment and dedication to our youth ministry. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in making them feel valued and recognized for their hard work.

2. Recognize Their Efforts

Take the time to recognize the efforts of our volunteer leaders. Celebrate their successes, both big and small. Whether it’s a successful youth event, a breakthrough moment with a young person, or their unwavering dedication, let them know you see and appreciate their contributions.

3. Provide Feedback

Feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Offer constructive feedback to help them improve their skills and leadership abilities. Highlight what they’re doing well and gently suggest areas where they can grow. Remember, it’s all about helping them become the best leaders they can be.

4. Support Their Growth

Encourage our volunteer leaders to invest in their own growth. Whether it’s attending training sessions, reading relevant books, or seeking mentorship, let them know that their personal development matters to us. Offer resources and opportunities for them to expand their knowledge and skills.

5. Foster a Supportive Community

Our youth ministry teams should feel like a family. Create an environment where our volunteer leaders can connect with one another, share experiences, and offer support. Hosting regular meetings or gatherings can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

6. Empower Them

Empower our volunteer leaders to take ownership of their roles. Encourage them to bring their creativity and ideas to the table. When they feel a sense of ownership and responsibility, they’re more likely to be motivated and engaged.

7. Be a Listening Ear

Sometimes, our volunteer leaders may need someone to talk to. Be that listening ear. Create a safe space where they can share their joys and challenges. Remember that we’re here to support them not only in ministry matters but in their personal lives as well.

8. Pray Together

Lastly, let’s not underestimate the power of prayer. Pray together as a team for the youth ministry, for each other, and for the young people we serve. Prayer not only strengthens our bonds but also reminds us of the greater purpose behind our ministry.

Encouraging our volunteer leaders is not just a nice thing to do; it’s an essential part of nurturing a thriving youth ministry. When our leaders feel appreciated, supported, and empowered, they can, in turn, pour that positivity into the lives of our students.

Let’s continue to inspire one another, share our successes and challenges, and build a community of youth pastors who are passionate about equipping the next generation. Together, we can make an incredible impact.

Need some resources for your leaders? We’ve got you covered!

18 Sep 2023

7 Reasons to Let Students Lead

By Ronald|2023-09-18T08:08:02-07:00September 18th, 2023|Leadership|11 Comments

You’ve got adult volunteers. That’s awesome! Train them, and you’ll see great growth in your student ministry! But what about your students? Should they be given extra responsibility and ways to lead and grow? Of course! Here are seven reasons why letting students lead and encouraging them to do so will benefit them and the student ministry as a whole!

Ownership of Faith:When students actively participate in the youth ministry by serving in various capacities, they develop a sense of ownership over their faith. It transforms their faith from something their parents or guardians believe into something they can call their own. By being involved in planning events, leading discussions, or volunteering in leadership, they start to see how their faith is relevant and meaningful in their lives.
Leadership Development:Serving in youth ministry provides an excellent opportunity for leadership development. As students take on responsibilities, they learn valuable communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. These skills are essential for their roles within the ministry and future endeavors, both in their careers and as responsible adults.
Spiritual Growth:Engaging in service within the youth ministry often leads to significant spiritual growth. Students can deepen their understanding of their faith as they study and share it with their peers. They are more likely to ask questions, seek answers, and seek a deeper connection with their spiritual beliefs. This active engagement can help them form a stronger, more resilient faith that can withstand the challenges of adulthood.
Mentorship Opportunities:When students serve in youth ministry, they often work alongside dedicated adult leaders who can serve as mentors. These mentors provide guidance, support, and encouragement, helping students navigate the complexities of adolescence and faith. These relationships can be instrumental in shaping their character and faith journey.
Building Community:Service in youth ministry fosters a strong sense of community among young people. They bond with their peers as they work together on projects and events. These connections can be particularly meaningful, as they share a common faith and purpose. It provides a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their spirituality and share their struggles and triumphs.
Empowerment:Giving students responsibilities within the youth ministry empowers them to make a difference. It sends a powerful message that their opinions and contributions matter. This empowerment boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to take an active role in their faith community and, later on, in society.
Passing on the Torch:When students serve in youth ministry, they become the role models for the younger generation. They set an example of what it means to live out one’s faith. This torch passing ensures the youth ministry’s continuity and growth, as younger students are inspired to follow in their footsteps.

Conclusion

Having students serve in their youth ministry is a win-win situation. It benefits both the students themselves and the broader faith community. It empowers students to take ownership of their faith, develop leadership skills, experience spiritual growth, and build a strong sense of community. It also ensures the future vitality of the youth ministry by creating a cycle of mentorship and inspiration.

Encouraging and supporting students in their service roles within youth ministry is an investment in the next generation of leaders and faithful individuals. It acknowledges that students have a valuable role in the church’s life and that their contributions are essential for its continued growth and relevance in an ever-changing world.

Need some help getting your students leading? We’ve got the tools for you!

14 Aug 2023

Starting Off Small Groups Right

By Ronald|2023-08-14T10:47:41-07:00August 14th, 2023|Small Groups|3 Comments

As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisper (at least there’s a rumor cold air is happening somewhere around here…), it’s the perfect time to kick off small groups within your youth ministry. I’m excited to share some practical tips with you that will help you create an enriching and transformative experience for your students this fall. Let’s dive in:

1. Select Clear Topics and Themes:

Imagine sitting down with your small group, ready to dive into meaningful conversations. To make that happen, choose topics and themes that genuinely resonate with your students. Think about their needs, interests, and challenges. When you address subjects that matter to them, you’ll spark engagement and encourage everyone to actively participate.

Want to make it a double win? Get on board with your church’s vision statement and show how what you’re talking about correlates to that!

2. Recruit and Train Leaders:

Leaders are the heartbeat of your small groups. Identify individuals who have a passion for mentoring and guiding others. These leaders don’t have to be experts; they just need a heart that cares. Equip them with training, resources, and ongoing support. When leaders feel confident and well-prepared, their guidance will inspire great discussions and growth.

Check out some of the resources down below for more info!

3. Define Group Guidelines:

Creating a safe and open space is huge for effective small groups. Sit down with your leaders and craft clear group guidelines together. Address behaviors, confidentiality, and mutual respect. These guidelines set the tone for an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, questions, and struggles.

Make sure students are on board with these guidelines and are willing to participate with these in mind!

4. Incorporate Prayer and Worship:

Picture your small group gathering around in a circle, connecting not only with each other but also with Jesus. Start or end each session with prayer and worship. It deepens the spiritual experience, reminding everyone that they’re part of something bigger than themselves. This practice also fosters unity and encourages students to explore their faith journey together.

Remind students they aren’t just here for fellowship! They’re here to experience the life changing work of God!

5. Celebrate Milestones:

We all love celebrating victories, right? Well, your small groups should be no different. Recognize and celebrate milestones—whether it’s someone’s spiritual breakthrough, a goal achieved, or personal challenges overcome. These celebrations create a sense of accomplishment and belonging, making your small group feel like a tight-knit community.

As you embark on this exciting journey of fall small groups, remember that you’re not just organizing meetings; you’re fostering a space for growth, connection, and transformation. Keep these tips close as you create a nurturing environment for your students.

Need some resources to get your fall in full swing? Check these awesome Co-Leader resources out!

12 Jun 2023

Preparing Your Heart for Summer Camp

By Ronald|2023-06-09T12:41:58-07:00June 12th, 2023|Leadership|2 Comments

As a youth pastor, you play a vital role in shaping the spiritual journey of the young hearts entrusted to your care. Summer camp offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories, deepen relationships, and, most importantly, help young people deeply encounter God. However, before you embark on this incredible adventure, preparing your heart for what lies ahead is essential. In this blog post, we will explore practical steps you can take to ensure your heart is ready to lead, love, and impact young lives at summer camp.

Seek God in Prayer: Before diving into the logistics and planning, spend intentional time in prayer. Seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and anointing as you prepare for summer camp. Pray for the hearts of the young people attending, your fellow leaders, and yourself. Dedicate specific times to intercede for each individual and commit the camp to God’s care. A heart surrendered in prayer will be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit throughout the camp experience.
Reflect on Your Own Spiritual Journey: Take a moment to reflect on your personal spiritual journey. Consider the lessons God has taught you, the challenges you have faced, and the growth you have experienced. Share transparently with God about areas that need refinement or healing. By doing so, you can empathize with the struggles and questions that young campers may bring with them. Remember that your authenticity and vulnerability will help create an environment where campers feel safe sharing their hearts.
Study and Meditate on God’s Word: Summer camp presents a wonderful opportunity to dive deeper into God’s Word with your students. However, you must be personally immersed in Scripture before you can effectively guide others. Spend time studying passages relevant to the themes or topics you plan to address during camp. Allow the truth of God’s Word to transform your heart, equipping you to share it passionately with your students. Memorize key verses that speak to the overarching message of the camp and reflect on their personal significance. This will help you have deeper conversations with students once camp comes around.
Cultivate a Heart of Servanthood: As a youth pastor, you are called to be a servant leader. Prepare your heart by cultivating an attitude of humility and servanthood. Consider the needs of others above your own and be willing to go the extra mile for your campers. Approach every task, big or small, with a servant’s heart. Serving others, whether through organizing logistics or sitting beside a homesick camper, will allow Christ’s love to shine through you.
Surround Yourself with Support: Recognize that you cannot bear the weight of ministry alone. Surround yourself with a community of fellow leaders who can provide support, encouragement, and accountability. Meet regularly with a mentor or trusted friend who can help guide you through the challenges and joys of youth ministry. Remember that being a youth pastor is a team effort, and you are not alone in preparing your heart for summer camp.

Preparing your heart for summer camp is essential in ensuring a transformative experience for yourself and the campers you serve. By seeking God in prayer, reflecting on your spiritual journey, studying God’s Word, cultivating a heart of servanthood, and surrounding yourself with support, you will be well-equipped to lead with love, compassion, and authenticity. As you embark on this journey, remember that God is faithful and will work through you to touch the hearts of the youth attending summer camp. May you be filled with anticipation and readiness as you prepare to impact lives for the glory of God.