5. Educate yourself on youth culture.
This is difficult. I’m not drawn to secular music, but my students are. So I feel responsible to stay updated on popular music. That way, I know how to more effectively minister to kids. I’m not into video games either, but my students are. I’m not a trendy guy; in fact, I dress pretty old school. But I try to stay up to date on trends too.
6. Be missional in everything the student ministry does.
Prioritize the mission of making disciples in how you do ministry. When you go somewhere with students, stay missional. Plan your calendar around the mission. Spend the budget around the mission. I’m afraid we’re doing good things but not the main thing. Everything in student ministry needs a purpose. Every event needs a purpose, aka the mission.
You might feel like a complete failure as a student pastor. (I do sometimes.) But if you’re actively pursuing these steps, you’re on your way to becoming a great youth pastor. So keep it up! It takes time; be patient.
