STUDENT MINISTRY: The Worker and Their Lead Pastor
Most student ministry workers are not the lead pastors in their churches. They serve in a different role. They serve the families, churches and students of their local congregations as they work under the leadership of another. That is not always an easy task. Student ministry workers are often creative and full of ideas. They want to see those ideas implemented as soon as possible and may not understand a “no” or “not now.” That tension can be hard, but it is an area we must walk in. For the sake of the church, our ministry health and our relationship with our lead pastor, it is important that we do a handful of things:
• Pray for your pastor. That can be hard, especially if you feel slighted by your leader. However, we need to lift our pastors up before the Lord every day. Pray for a greater understanding of his role and responsibilities. Pray for his family. Pray for greater connection as you serve your church as a team. That is important, whether you are full-time, part-time or simply a volunteer.
• Meet with your pastor regularly. Student ministry workers must communicate what is happening in the student ministry, as well as have a clear understanding of the direction of the church. That can only happen when communication is open and consistent with the pastor. A former lead pastor of mine simply wanted to be informed of the good, bad and ugly. He was happy to support me, but didn’t want to be surprised. Communication is key.
• Do everything you can to support your pastor’s ministry. Be his biggest cheerleader. Seek to help him fulfill how God is leading. Don’t speak ill of your pastor. You may disagree with him, but it is better to get out of the way than to impede the ministry of the church. If you feel it is necessary to disagree with him, make sure it is done in private.
• Look for ways to connect with your pastor. Find out their interests. Learn more about their past. A genuine connection with your pastor translates to a more unified ministry and a healthier student ministry.
If a student ministry worker wants to experience a healthier ministry, it is important that they spend the energy to build a relationship with their lead pastor. It is easier at some times than others. However, it is always worth the investment.
Join the conversation in our Student Ministry Matters Community Facebook Group, and let us know how you invest in your relationship with your pastor.
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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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