“I could never work with youth — I just can’t deal with all those hormones!”
“I’ve done my time when my kids were that age.”
“They won’t think I’m cool enough.”
“What if they ask questions about sex?”
These are common hesitations people express when considering volunteering in youth ministry. And honestly, they’re understandable. Stepping into the world of teenagers can feel daunting.
Grace Sosa began her ministry journey in children’s ministry at her church. She admits feeling a wave of nervousness when asked to transition to leading the youth ministry. The shift from crafts, action songs, and dress-up days to engaging with teenagers felt significant. Youth group meant tackling life’s big questions, exploring faith deeply, and navigating the complexities of identity.
However, Grace’s past year in youth ministry has been surprisingly fulfilling. She’s found herself cheering students on at games, enjoying concerts, and applauding their performances. She celebrated their milestones at graduation and offered support during tough times. Witnessing their faith grow through confirmation and seeing them lead worship on youth Sunday has been incredibly rewarding.
Many adults feel intimidated by teenagers. Perhaps you worry about facing teenage attitude or being stumped by difficult questions. But working with youth is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering unexpected blessings and a unique perspective.
Yes, teenagers can be energetic and sometimes a little chaotic. They might forget to clean up after themselves, and yes, teenage humor can be… well, teenage humor.
But beneath the surface, they possess a remarkable capacity for empathy and mutual support.
In Grace’s youth group, a diverse group of about fifteen students embraces differences in race, identity, and ability without needing constant reminders about inclusivity. They naturally extend Christ-like love and acceptance to one another.
Numerous resources highlight the crucial role adults play in the lives of teenagers. These connections are vital in fostering continued church involvement during and beyond college years.
However, the motivation to volunteer in youth ministry extends beyond the impact on teenagers. Adults should consider volunteering with their church youth groups because it offers profound blessings to the adults themselves.
Here are just a few of the enriching experiences Grace has encountered while leading her church’s youth group this past year.
After a lesson exploring humility, a student’s insightful comment, “Mrs. Grace, in God’s eyes, a baby and Elon Musk are the same,” offered a humorous yet profound reminder of spiritual equality.
The youth group adopted a new favorite prayer posture learned at a retreat: cupping hands to receive blessings, then raising them upwards while saying “amen” to offer prayers to God. This simple physical action deepened their prayer experience.
An impromptu karaoke and dance party erupted when they discovered a shared love for Taylor Swift among the youth group members, turning a regular youth room into a space of spontaneous joy and connection.
“Don’t rob yourself of a blessing just because you’re scared of middle schoolers.”
Several youth volunteers enthusiastically assisted with Vacation Bible School (VBS) skits this summer. Their infectious energy and engagement with the children far exceeded expectations, creating memorable moments for both the VBS kids and the youth volunteers.
During a local mission trip, a seventh-grade boy’s heartfelt question to a homebound church member in her 70s, “Barbara, will you be my bestie?” beautifully bridged generational gaps and created a meaningful connection. Later, weeding in the church garden became an act of service dedicated to Barbara, with each weed pulled “for Barbara!”
At the Synod Youth Workshop in July, despite initial anxieties about meeting new people post-COVID, one student thrived, participating in the talent show and seeking a leadership role on the youth planning team for the following year. This experience showcased unexpected personal growth and confidence.
These seemingly small moments are “rays of sunshine” in youth ministry. They may not be grand, world-altering events, but these are the moments that make youth ministry deeply rewarding and personally enriching.
It’s common for churches to hire a youth minister and expect them to operate the youth program in isolation. However, just like children’s ministry thrives on volunteer support, youth groups benefit immensely from the positive presence of adult volunteers. You don’t need to be a teacher or a basketball star to make a difference.
While youth ministry isn’t everyone’s calling, don’t let fear of teenagers prevent you from experiencing its blessings. Give it a try. You might be surprised at how “cool” it actually is, and at the very least, you’re guaranteed a few laughs along the way.
Grace Sosa serves as associate pastor for youth ministries at First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene, Texas.
