It's funny how summer "break" catapults youth ministry activity.
From the time the last school bell of the year rings, until it
begins again we have a massive opportunity.
Here's how to beat the Summer HEAT...
H - Heart. Give your best. Work at your ministry with all your
heart. It's part of our calling. Of course most importantly is to
love the Lord with all our heart, soul mind and strength.
E - Encouragement. Give extra attention to the group as a whole.
Even if you're working full time, bock extra time for focused
attention.
A - Activities. Design the calendar around purpose. Have a mix of
service, study and fun.
T - Thanksgiving. Throughout the summer keep a journal. Write down
everything you are thankful for along the way. Encourage your group
to do the same. Before school starts back have a special event and
share the thanksgiving memories.
Summer givers us longer days to be with the teens. They have more
time and if we guard ours, we'll have more time for them.
The ZONE from Teen Life has been called the "Ultimate Youth
Ministry Shortcut." Here's how the Zone can help you this Summer...
Class - since you need more time with the teens. Select your lesson
from the Zone a week early. Block time for review and customizing
for your group. http://tinyurl.com/27tlkd
Devotionals - Head to the devotional section and print out a few to
have in your bible. As the day closes out on your trips or
adventures, you'll have some thoughts handy that will involve the
group. http://tinyurl.com/6s7yag
Email quiet times - Unfortunately all the teens will not be
involved. You can email quiet times to the group and include them. http://tinyurl.com/23es49
Personal Growth - Don't overlook yourself. Make sure once a month
you block out time for a "Dawn Till Dusk" personal reflection
retreat. http://tinyurl.com/2faxo9
Games - if you find yourself with some extra time this summer -
which may not be possible - grab a quick game for the group. http://tinyurl.com/6yyns9
Links to all the updates are available directly from the homepage:
Active Waiting - One discipline of the spiritual life to which many
of us find it most difficult to submit is that of waiting...
1 Timothy Lesson 8 - Do you have what it takes to be rich? Zone
members click here to download this week's bible lesson with
outline, powerpoint, handout and discussion guide.
3 Ice Breakers - Around the World The leader begins by saying the
name of any country, city, river, ocean or mountain that can be...
Youth Ministry Tip of the Week ) - Youth ministry tip of the week.
Simple guidelines for discipleship.
"I have noticed a huge difference in our group since joining The
Zone. They talk about how they love the classes, the handouts, and
the PowerPoint. Because of the training I'm getting I understand
the teens better and have been able to reach out to them more
effectively. Thanks for the great work. Keep it up!"
Member 4 Life,
John Amos
Florida Youth Minister
free online resources for youth ministry.
Youth devotionals, youth bible study, Christian speaker - teen life
ministries takes the guess work out of youth work.
