How Can We Empower Youth?
Posted on Sep 1, 2024
Written by: Amanda Clark
We like to see youth leading in church. We like to see youth being intricately involved in lots of areas of church life. How do we make that happen? The answer is to connect with youth and invite them to be involved. There’s no need for me to write a whole blog because you have the answer in the first paragraph, right?
Well, maybe not, because you’re still asking the question – “How do I connect with a random youth at church and get them to be involved?”
While it is helpful to learn to send Snaps on Snapchat so that you can connect with Gen Z, there are other ways to connect with youth. You don’t have to give up your skinny jeans, side part, or crying happy face emoji to get youth involved in your church. If you don’t understand these reference, watch this video:
Here are three ways anyone with a heart for youth ministry can connect with youth:
- Authentic: Be authentic in your interactions with youth.
- Available: Give youth your time when they ask for it and when they don’t ask for it. Go to their sports and extra-curricular competitions. Talk to them whenever you see them, in church and outside of church.
- Affirming: Affirm their identity in Christ. Constantly remind youth they have value and were created for a purpose by our most high God and King.
At the ELCA’s Youth Ministry Certification School at Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp in 2004 the Reverend Doctor Paul Hill instilled in us the importance of being authentic, available, and affirming to youth. As a result, I have practiced these three strategies for 20 years; they won’t steer you wrong.
Once church members connect with youth, youth will feel like church is their family. When you are authentic, available, and affirming to youth, the benefits ripple through the entire church community. They will feel empowered.
Empowered youth are more likely to:
- Stay Engaged: Young people who feel valued and connected to their church are more likely to remain active in their faith.
- Lead Change: They bring fresh ideas and energy that can lead to innovative programs and outreach efforts.
- Build Community: Youth who are invested in their faith community help to create a more vibrant and supportive church environment.
Your connection with youth is not only strengthening the youth but also ensuring the vitality and continuity of the church for years to come.
Empowering youth is not just a task but a calling—one that has the potential to transform lives and communities. As church youth leaders, embracing this responsibility with dedication and compassion will pave the way for a brighter, more faith-filled future.
Amanda Clark is a veteran youth worker, having worked at camps, churches, and youth-focused non-profits for 25+ years. Want to continue this conversation? Amanda can be reached at [email protected].