So why this title – when it’s pretty obvious not everyone could possibly be called to youth ministry?
I’m a veteran youth pastor – and over the years I have developed the philosophy that, indeed, everyone has a role to play in the student ministry – the parent, the college student, the senior adult, even the one who says ‘I’ll never work with the teenagers’ – especially them!
I love students – and while I realize that’s not everyone’s slice of pizza, I believe people can be so enriched, enhanced, and challenged by finding that one special nitch in the student ministry where they can thrive…
Sometimes that’s driving kids to and from church. Sometimes it’s making sandwiches for a youth meeting. Sometimes it’s leading a small group, showing up at a basketball game, praying over one specific student, or listening to music you’d never listen to in the comfort of your own car.
Regardless – I know it’s true – EVERYONE can love Jesus by loving teenagers!