This summer, we’ve been discussing how many of the young people who continue to have a vibrant relationship with Jesus tend to have 5 things in common.
Habit #5: The 34% of youth who stayed connected to Christ into adulthood were entrusted with ministry at a young age.
I am so delighted that many of our youth (6th grade and up) serve in our church: in Children’s Ministry, as scripture readers, and in many other ways. I’m also so grateful for the leaders who help coach these burgeoning leaders as they serve with them. It’s an investment in both the present and the future.
Last year, during a listening session with our youth, one high school boy said that he enjoyed serving in part because adults in the church would talk to him afterward, and he felt seen. Other youth nodded in agreement. That comment stuck with me.
So here’s my challenge to you:
If you serve alongside a youth, I would encourage you to look for ways to invest in and befriend them!
If you see a youth serving in your child’s class, learn their name and thank them! If you see them around later, build the relationship!