In order to get the church leadership excited about the implementation of the commitment level model of youth ministry in the church it is wise to arrange to do a presentation to the church leadership team. Having done this a few time before in my role as consultant I would suggest the following approach - it involves communicating the reasons for concern about developing youth ministry in the church and then the presentaion of a strategy for implementing the model.
1. The Concerns
Youth ministry in the local church is often directionless (events do not work together to accomplish a clearly defined purpose); fragmented (the various departments seldom communicate with each other); activity-based (ministries offer attractive programmes seemingly without a purpose); and limited (leaders seem content with maintaining a youth group rather than building a youth ministry). Further frustrations surface in ministry among youth, including erratic or inappropriate attendance, failure to integrate newcomers, unsuccessful transitions between groups and difficulty balancing the various ministry purposes. These frustrations are covered more fully in another (link)article.
2. The Solution
While there are no quick-fix solution to youth ministry, the following strategy is suggested that will address the concerns and frustrations so often encountered in ministry among youth:
A. The Introduction of a Ministry Model
The model is based on a philosophy that is purpose-driven and programming that is commitment-based. The purpose of youth ministry is clearly identified and a mission statement created that guides events and ministries. The strategy moves from department-based ministry to age-based ministry as ministry at each age group (pre-school, children, teenagers and young adults) is centrally co-ordinated.
B. The Training of all Youth Workers
All present and potential youth workers within the church are gathered together for training in the strategy and model of ministry over a period of time. They are taught how to establish events and ministries that implement the philosophy behind the model.
C. The Development of a Youth Council
Each age-based ministry is represented in a body that co-ordinates the overall ministry among youth. The youth council oversees ministry philosophy, human resource, programme emphases, curriculum material, transition of youth between age groups, combined events and special counselling situations.
D. The Appointment of a Youth Pastor
This part-time or full-time position is necessary to ensure the ongoing development of youth ministry through consulting for each age group; coordinating the interrelation of youth groups; caring for the leaders of each age group ministry; and communicating with the church regarding youth ministry.
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