"It's Not Rocket Science!" Part 2

So, should we not run a group, a program or a series of interrelated groups?

If you have leadership, energy and a vision for a group/s or a program/s then go for it!!

Just don't make the program the focus... let any and all activities meet the social and fun needs of your young people and those in your local or regional community... but attend also to the wider vision of: growing resilience in young people; helping them with identity, belonging, meaning & shaping faith; providing positive intergenerational experiences; and making discipleship accessible, real and responsive.

Other colleagues have done plenty of writing about how we still often see 'building relationship' as a means to an end, even subconsciously... I will get to know these young people in order to better understand how to 'share the gospel with them'... how about because God loves and values them and calls me to do the same, or because the lived example of Jesus reminds me that he made time for all people and especially for those on the edge... he was also most critical of empty religious practice...

Alternatives to Friday Night Youth Group:

A less frequent program of varied activities with small discipleship groups as a regular centre

Activities building on 'affinity' e.g. social justice action, Wii Games, Movies, music

There's still a place for weekend camps as a glimpse of the community, values & story we share

Taking groups to regional events and beyond

Beginning with a Kids Club or Holiday Club to build on

Start a 'Priority One' Year 6 to Year 7 program

[each depends on your context and what would be best]

More soon...