Dear Core Members,
Maybe I say it a lot, maybe I don’t. It can’t possibly be enough. I’m pretty sure teens don’t say it very often – either way, again, it isn’t often enough. Parents probably say it, but they most likely don’t really know what they’re saying it for, exactly. I know our pastor says it, but again, not enough . . .
Take a few minutes today to call your “Jo” and share with them how thankful you are for their years of service to the teens and if you can, write about your “Jo” in the comments below so this Thanksgiving, as a Life Teen family, we can give thanks for the many Core Members who are making a difference in leading teens closer to Christ.
To use a track and field analogy, men need to know the distance markers of relational ministry to understand just how much further they need to run to reach the finish line. So many men (and women) will give up before God desires them to because they don’t see the mile markers they have reached and they give in to the lie that they’re failing. Leading teens into a relationship with Christ is a lifelong goal that requires trust between the teen and the Core Member. Keep guys on track by affirming them weekly in the small ways they have gone the distance for the teens and for God.
This time of year, I start meeting with my Core Team to find out their intentions for the upcoming year. It’s a time of stress and worry – wondering who will choose to stay, who wants to leave, and who is interested in coming aboard. Core Member recruitment and retention can be one of the most important aspects for a youth minister to consider. When Core Members choose to stay – it’s a testament to your program and provides continuity and stability as your teens go from year to year.
Maintaining a Safe Environment is a vital aspect of youth ministry. After all, if we are truly dedicated to helping teens grow in a relationship with Jesus Christ, we should also be dedicated to making sure that they can do so in a safe place. Here is a list of things to help you evaluate if your youth ministry is truly safe. (Please note that above all, you should know your Diocesan Safe Environment Policy and follow it). Maintain a positive attitude about Safe Environment. I’ll be honest, while