Whether you have kids or not, take advantage of the topic this week to think about your family and ministry and how they work together cooperatively—and how they fight each other. The stages of kids in youth ministry vary…I’m in the thick of it right now: NO KIDS You are living the dream.…
Ping pong is a funny sport to watch. The sheer intensity generated by such a tiny ball and net can easily be seen plastered on the sweaty faces of its participants. And these participants don’t mess around. It’s as if a sense of humor is against the rules.…
As I went back to work this week I was reflecting on what I have learnt about balancing working in ministry and family over the past almost six years. So for the mums in ministry here are a few key things I have learnt.…
Yesterday’s article on starting a parent ministry resonated with many readers so we’re back today with a few more tips for partnering with parents. A healthy youth ministry has great parent interaction, involvement and information—here are a few ideas to help you connect with the parents of the students in your ministry.…
It looked like we were prepared for last years parent meeting. Some quality table decorations. Some delicious snacks. The only thing missing? PARENTS. Not kidding: We went all out for a parent meeting…and had 2 parents show up. Want to know what we learned?…
This one is tough: How do you tell students you’re leaving the church? There’s no easy way to break the news, but here are a few ideas to consider when you’re in this situation. Tell your inner circle first. Gather up your key volunteers and break the news to them first; no doubt some of them will be disappointed, discouraged, or even frustrated/angry, but they deserve to hear it from you first.…
Want to have a great summer? As youth workers that have planned summers that have both crushed and crashed—let us share some tips for planning a great summer calendar. Don’t wait until the pressure is on. Here’s some good news right up front: If you’re thinking about summer now, you’re in good shape.…
It probably happens more often than you realize. A student you are connected to is arrested for some offense—or multiple offenses—and faces a court appearance. The odds are, they and their family are trying to keep it quiet. Maybe you hear through the grapevine, maybe they actually tell you.…
Part 3: FAQs [Part 3 of 4] So far we’ve addressed misplaced priorities in families, and overcoming three of the top challenges in developing a spiritual growth plan in families. While I’m certain we’re making progress, the list of questions generated by this topic feels exponential.…
While having my spiritual retreat day at a local coffee store I ran into one of my youth group kid’s dad. He actually has twin girls. I was on FB and noticed what one of them said about the other: “I have the greatest sister in the world.”…
