Youth Ministry in the United States

One of the extraordinary perks of my job is the people I get to work with. I often wonder if that is the reason that God brought me back to Steubenville, is to meet up with these folks and begin talking about what is really important.

I had such a conversation with Mark Berchem, director of NET Ministries. Even though I'm working here at the University, my heart is still in Youth Ministry, particularly for the Youth Ministers. We talked about where youth ministry needs to go and what minsters are needing.

Let's just say I left that meeting with my heart pounding. I believe God is about a movement in our country. There are SO many excellent ministries for and directed at youth. It is not enough, yet, but faithfulness to the Church and her teachings is on the rise. I have dreams of going to a certain federation of certain "youth ministers" on a "national level" and telling them either get with the Church or get lost. No more can they be the guiding influence of youth ministry in this country.

YOU are in the trenches. You are more than likely wanting to be faithful to the Church but are often challenged by other youth ministers, your own pastor, parents and even the crummy stuff that is out there called "resources" (I'm thinking Center for Ministry Development, Generations of Faith, etc).

We can do better. We can be holier. We can listen to the Holy Spirit. We can be maleable and do God's will. It takes a willingness. Will you be willing? Will you listen? Will you, by the grace of God BE what he needs you to be-nothing more, nothing less?

Ministry vs Job

We had a staff retreat today. It was quite good. The Boss gave us the following which I found rather good:

Some people have a job in the Church.

Others invite themselves into a ministry

What's the difference you ask?

If you are doing it just because no one else will, it's a job.

If you are doing it to serve the Lord, it's a ministry.

If you'll do it as long as it does not interfere with your other activities, it's a job.

If you are committed to staying even if it means letting go of other things, it's a ministry.

If you quit because no one thank you or praised you, it's a job.

If you stick with it even though no one recognized your efforts, it's a ministry.

It's hard to get excited about a job,

It's almost impossible not to get excited about a ministry.

If God calls you to a ministry, don't treat it like a job!

Lord, strengthen your servants and move us to a true sense of ministry and service, through your grace and mercy. Amen.