When a new volunteer starts in our ministry, what do we consider basic training? We all know that basic training is needed when anyone starts in an organization. What is the culture, how do things work, when do we communicate—the answers to these questions make for an easy and smooth transition into a ministry.
Sadly, I think most youth ministries expect you to catch the basic training by just watching what happens. Can someone really learn an organization by just watching what happens each week? No, they can’t. In fact, what happens when an organization uses this method is everyone gets to decide for themselves what they want the culture to be. This means the organization can be headed in 10 different directions at the same time. This makes for rough transitions and volunteers leaving a ministry after a few months.
Basic training gets people headed in the right direction at the right time. This makes for a smooth transition and a healthy team. So, what should be included in basic training? Here are a few ideas:
1. Mission and Vision
This helps each volunteer know the purpose and goals of the ministry.
2. Policy and Procedures
These are so important when working with students. We have to have these written down and have a clear training on how to work with students.
3. How youth ministry works
So often, people think working with students means having fun with them or being liked by them. Volunteers need to understand that we have a mission and limited time with students. We need to make the most of what time we have.
4. How youth ministry is structured at your church
Volunteers might come from another church. They need to know how the ministry works under your leadership.
5. The basics of relationship building
The most important part of youth ministry is relationship building. Most adults are scared of students. You need to teach them how to build a meaningful relationship.
6. Teaching for transformation
If your adults are leading a small group but don’t know how to teach, the group will not produce disciples. Teaching for transformation is a real skill, and most people don’t have it. You will need to spend a great deal of time on this.
7. Allowing students to lead
If your adults do everything for students, they will not learn and will most likely leave the church in their 20s. Adult volunteers need to learn the art of challenging students to own their faith. They need to put them in situations where they make decisions and deal with the consequences. This will produce owners who stay and make more disciples.
