Taking Responsibility

Using teenage volunteers comes with built-in challenges. But in some ways, teen challenges aren’t much different from adult challenges. “Teenagers go through cycles, like all of us,” Bullion says. “They’re super excited when they come out of the gate, and then they get lackluster as they realize how much work is involved.” You can address that by “reminding teenagers daily of their ministry to the children they serve,” he says.

“Walk kids through the difficult times,” Harris says, but realize that not every teenager is going to like children’s ministry. If that happens, help teens find their niche in another part of the church.

Harris also warns children’s ministers against speeding things along. “Don’t throw kids into a slot just because they’re good kids,” he warns. “You have to prepare them, develop their social and emotional skills, and give them responsibility gradually.”

Remember that “serving is a privilege, and eternity is at stake” in children’s ministries, Wendt says. “So if teenagers don’t meet the program’s expectations or otherwise need some extra guidance, take the appropriate steps to make things right.”

Taking the Next Step With Teen Volunteers

Our experts say the benefits of using youth volunteers far outweigh obstacles. With guidance, teenagers can do amazing things in your ministry. In the process, they will transform into ministers themselves. “We really underestimated what young people can do,” Johnson says. “They aren’t just our future leaders; they’re making a huge impact right now.”

So churches of all sizes should give teens a chance to serve, Rivas says. “Disciple, encourage, and equip them. Kids derive their passion, inspiration, and motivation for service from people they serve with,” she says. “In turn, they’ll be the inspiration for the next generation of servants.”

This article was originally published on ChildrensMinistry.com, © Group Publishing, a division of David C Cook.