Let’s stop asking youth to join in on Zoom. Instead let’s invite them into specific, meaningful, purpose-filled ministry. Youth show up when needs are vital, meaningful, and urgent. If that Is not a clear goal, there is no reason to turn on or attend.
Asks need to be specific:
- “I need you to meet and talk with a sixth grade girl who is having a tough time.”
- “Everyone is talking about diversity. We have a panel discussion next WED night on this topic. I need you to be one of the listeners. We need people like you being out there with some common sense about this topic.”
- “I need you to join in some intentional listening conversation with youth at a faith community that is different (in race, denomination, religion… you choose) than ours.”
- “Teen sucide is way up in our community! We need you to be part of a group being equipped to help!”
- “Julie just lost her sister in a car accident. I need you to join in our prayer vigil tonight. She needs our support.”
Most youth, when asked for specific, meaningful ministry are going to say, “Yes,” now that you have them thinking about real ministry. Zoom no longer matters. Being needed does!
Remember: “Youth are either leading or they are leading!”
“Let’s stop inviting them to youth group.Instead, let’s invite them to real youth ministry.”