Ask any youth worker about numbers, and you’ll probably get one of a few looks. Maybe it is the “oh man, I’m getting killed right by the numbers right now” or the classic “they matter way too much in my church” or every once in a while the noble-if-probably-not-true “nah, in my church, numbers don’t matter.”
They matter in every church – I’m convinced of it. Working in a couple churches myself and talking to enough youth workers over the past dozen years have told me that over and over again they matter. Here’s what I’ve learned from playing the game for so long:
When numbers are flat – when you’re about the same as last year, in my experience you’re not going to be bothered too much. While there maybe some early rumblings of angst from the leadership – at the end of the day, at least you’re not driving students away. While they might secretly regret the hire they made, the elders will stay out of your way and hope things take an upward turn soon. Remember: when numbers are flat, the clock is ticking before they’ve got to be headed in the right direction. Also look for plenty of suggestions of well-meaning people looking to help you get unstuck.
When numbers are up – these are when numbers really matter to you as the leader of the youth ministry, but others don’t seem to revel in the glory. Honestly? It might be good if you don’t expect people to notice too much. I know it might be odd to think that if numbers matter so much, when they’re going up there should be partying in the streets! But when things are good, it is quite possible leadership will be happy in silence and spend their time and attention on what is hurting in the rest of the ministry.
When numbers are down - this is when numbers matter the most. Like it or lump it, numbers are a measure that people will use, right or wrong, to measure health. When people say that numbers matter in their church, it means that numbers matter when they’re down.
Now, if the above is true, then it makes me sad. My prayer is that God’s church is smarter than this. That changed lives should be the measure that matters most, and numbers, while important, are by no means the most important definition of success.
To youth pastors: If your youth ministry is flat, slowing or growing – take heart. God is at work changing lives in your church. Should you make some changes? Perhaps. Should you look at changing up some programs? Sure. Know that the ups and downs of youth ministry are normal, and you should be listening to God’s voice on leading or leaving regardless of the graph.
To elders: Take time to notice the condition of the youth ministry. Realize that the numbers game isn’t one that churches play well and your youth worker is killing herself trying to live up to the perceived reassures and expectations of leadership. Celebrate when the youth ministry is doing well, cheer him on when things are flat or down, and above all – look for ways to measure health without playing this little game.
JG
Josh Griffin has been in youth ministry for 15+ years and serves as the High School Pastor at Saddleback Church. [
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Geoff Stewart serves the Jr / Sr High School Pastor at Peace Portal Alliance Church in Surrey B.C.
