Youth Ministry That's Not for Youth

In a recent conversation with a member of our congregation, I heard a statement that I think echoes the sentiment of many: "Being an old person, I haven't had any reason to be around you all."

As a relatively young form of specialized ministry, it's not uncommon to have many misconceptions and misperceptions floating around any given congregation about what exactly "youth ministry" is all about. One of the most pervasive, and I believe most destructive, of these beliefs is that "youth ministry" is for "young people." There are many reasons for this, both complex and fascinating, but I won't go into that here (however, come by my office and let me pour you a cup of coffee with some good conversation on the matter!). Instead, I want to offer a brief look at why "youth ministry" is about everybody, ESPECIALLY those who are older.

Youth Ministry needs the involvement and participation of "older" people because . . .
. . . young people can't mentor themselves;
. . . young people need living, breathing models of faith in their life;
. . . young people need the wisdom of those who have experienced much more life (and death);
. . . young people need the assurance of elders that mistakes are okay, risks are worth taking, and grace is abundant for those who fall;
. . . young people need a history to ground their identity;
. . . young people need tradition to ground their faith;
. . . young people need a compass to direct their energy and passion;
. . . older people need the fresh expressions of faith that each new generation provides;
. . . older people need the opportunity to pass on their faith;
. . . older people need to know that their experiences and what they have learned will not be in vain;
. . . the Church needs to reflect the fullness of God's "family";
. . . the Church needs the energy that is generated by diversity and difference of opinion and approach;
. . . the Church needs to know that at both ends of life, there will always be someone to take care of you.

I look forward to seeing you at our next "youth" event!