If you wondering how to integrate new graduates into your youth ministry, here are the main points of a talk I shared on my Tuesday/Thursday Livestream.
It’s a Church-wide Responsibility
The entire church, including the youth pastor, lead pastor, board, and other leadership, must work together to create a plan for integrating graduates. It can’t fall solely on the youth pastor’s shoulders.
Have a Written Strategy
Develop a written process for what happens when a student graduates. This provides a clear, consistent approach and helps you answer questions from parents, students, and other church members.
Plan a Retreat
Consider organizing a retreat specifically for graduating students. The goal of this retreat is to pour into them and affirm their place in the church. Involve the pastor and board members to show them they are valued by the wider church body.
Integrate Graduates as Leaders
Find specific, meaningful ways for qualified graduates to serve within the youth ministry. This could include co-preaching, leading announcements or skits, helping with games, or being a part of the adult leadership team. This allows them to develop leadership, communication, and planning skills that are valuable in all areas of life.
Assess Each Student Individually
Not all graduates will be ready to serve in a leadership capacity. Have individual discussions with each student to determine their abilities, desire to minister, and how they might best fit into the church.
Help Them Find Their Place Beyond Youth Ministry
If a graduate isn’t ready or able to serve in a leadership role, encourage them to find a place in the wider church. This might mean working in children’s ministry, becoming an usher, or serving in another capacity with the adult congregation.
Differentiate Between Service and “Playtime”
Be diligent about the purpose of a graduate’s involvement. If a student is just looking to “hang around and goof off,” their presence may work against the ministry’s goals. Focus on those who have a heart for ministry and are ready to contribute.
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