STUDENT MINISTRY: The Power of Youth Sunday
This past Sunday at Calvary, we did what many of you do on “Fifth” Sundays — we had a Youth Sunday. Our students led in worship. That may not seem like that big of a deal for many of you, but let me assure you, it was a big deal for our church and people. When I came to Calvary in 2016, we had three youth-age students — my children, Riley and Kat Carson, and Georgia Richards. The church had gone through some hard times. As we moved forward, COVID hit and hit hard. So, when our older people looked up at the stage this past Sunday, they experienced hope.
Not every Youth Sunday goes like clockwork. Often, there will be mistakes, and plenty of coaching will need to be done afterward. My suggestion is not to give up. Yes, it may have been hard, and there may have been more mistakes than you wanted, but your students had an opportunity to serve and grow as Christ-followers.
Here are some things to consider as you approach planning your Youth Sunday:
• Consider the gifting of your students. Not all of them can sing or play an instrument. However, they all can serve. Look at their lives and determine how they could give of themselves during your special day.
• Consider the spiritual status of your students. Lost students do not need to be teaching or leading worship. They can serve in other areas, but our platforms, pulpits and classroom podiums should be reserved for those who know Jesus. Being a greeter or an usher is a position anyone can serve in.
• Consider the willingness of your pastor and congregation. You need to talk over and discuss dates, as well as other things that might have your leader concerned. In addition, your congregation may not be up for a Youth Sunday. It may be too much for them to hand over the reins for a day. If the answer is “no” from your leadership, continue to pray for opportunities to get your students in front of your people.
• Consider debriefing with your adult volunteers and student leaders after the day. Talk about what went well, what needs improvement and what could be done next time. Getting their feedback may help you continue to make these special days better.
You might think you only have a couple of students, but you can still get them involved in ministry. Start small and help your students see different ways they can fit within the church.
If you have ideas for “Youth Sundays,” join the conversation at Facebook.com/groups/StudentMinistryMattersCommunity or email us at info@StudentMinistryMatters.com.
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Dan Carson
BMA Youth Department Director Dan Carson writes a weekly column titled, Student Ministry Matters, through which he inspires, challenges, and informs BMA of Arkansas churches and church staff about all things pertaining to student ministry.
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