More than Activities

on June 9th, 2009

Talking to some other youth workers recently and a thought struck me about the recent trend in our students toward social issues. Just mention Africa and our students are riveted. We did a series called Love in Action this past Fall where we didn’t talk about love, we did it – and had several weeks of record attendance. Missions trips are getting solid buzz and even local service opportunities are doing well in our setting.

Is there a learning in there for the future? I think that students are still looking for a youth ministry with activities … but also with action.

Events and Activities - Now, it seems that programs (activities) have gotten a bad name lately. But I would say programs definitely have their place as one of many vehicles and venues to attract community students and connect the committed. However, we have to be bigger than babysitting, more than dodgeball. Hmmm … that would make a good blog name.

Discipleship, Action and Service - Beyond the front door there has to be substance. Spiritual depth is important and we should help students develop disciplines and habits that build a foundation for life. But we also need to provide opportunities to serve and be sent out. I’m taking a good look at our tentative Fall calendar this week and making sure that we’re balanced with activities and action.

So that’s what I’m seeing – what do you think?

JG


View More: , ,

Comments (2)

Jason at 2:42pm June 9

Josh – I couldn’t agree more. My Tuesday nigth small group has transitioned recently to heading out the Orchard (a shopping area/loca hang out) instead of staying in for Bible study. Our goal is to relationally engage people in spiritual conversations and share the Gospel within the context of that conversation (no, we do not bring bull horns and soap boxes with us). Additionally, the teens are still diving deep into God’s Word through other Youth Group meetings, but Tuesday night has become very action focused. My teens get amped up when we go out and are recruiting more and more friends to come with us to be apart of this!

Jason at 2:43pm June 9

meant to leave a link to the blogposts where you can read a little about our adventures: http://deepnwide.wordpress.com/category/hs-small-group/