by: Pacific Southwest Conference (PSWC) Youth Workers
The PSWC youth workers gathered at Mission Springs for a time of renewal, encouragement and resourcing. In one of the gatherings the questions was poised: are we, as youth workers, like missionaries?
As those who are called to serve in youth ministry we are asked to learn a culture that we interact with but aren’t a part of, we are asked to converse in a language different from our own and asked to partner with, guide, and shepherd a group of people.
As summer is coming to a close and we anticipate what the fall holds what are some things to remember?
- Remember to set healthy boundaries
- Stay engaged in the process of growth in our own lives – there is no finish line
- It is not about you and your gifting – God is in control
- Consider the demands of the coming week before it begins to review the calendar for home, church, and school. What events, tasks and activities do you need to be aware of and need to participate in?
- Care for your soul as a leader. You need peer-based experiences for your spiritual life. (Leading a small group of students is not equivalent to a small group experience in which you participate.)
- Preparation for ministry does not replace our personal devotion life
- Be teachable – and seek opportunities to learn
- Enjoy the journey
- Engage in Spiritual Direction
- Remember God’s call – you were called you do not own the ministry – no one is indispensable – each one is called to serve, we are all replaceable
- Actively participate in making your home a healthy place
- Be faithful and true
- Be confident in who God made you to be – you cannot be a duplicate of your predecessor, nor should you be
- The expectations you have for yourself may not be the same as God’s desires for you
- Humility is essential, though painful at times
- Closed doors do not invalidate God’s call
- Always improve yourself be an adult learner
- Make staff chemistry a priority
- Be a bridge builder – engage in relational ministry and build relationships with the youths’ families
- Clear communication is your responsibility
- Remember you are helping develop whole people as disciples
