Running a youth group is an unlikely task for me, by many measures. I pastor a Reformed church that subscribes to the Westminster Confession of Faith and takes its theology very seriously. I’m not a fan of the goofy, evangelical impulse to separate kids from the rest of the congregation whenever possible. I don’t swallow goldfish or do other stunts to try to impress kids.
At my age, any cool I may have had is long gone. So why am I in my ninth year running our church’s youth group? The simple answer is because I love the kids. I believe youth group is a valuable ministry that God is using.
Why Youth Group Still Matters
When our congregation discussed starting a youth group 10+ years ago, parents met to brainstorm. We made such a comprehensive list that no one in their right mind would ever take on the ministry. No way was our congregation going to hire a “professional” youth minister. This youth group would have to be a labor of love.
I decided the only way to launch the ministry was to just pick a date and start. So I did. My plan was simple: Have fellowship time, play a game or fun activity, study the Bible, enjoy a snack, and pray. We’d meet every other week for two hours. We’d throw in extra activities from time to time, and we’d include service opportunities as well.
To make it work, I recruited a few young-adult helpers. Because we had students from ages 12 to 18, we split into smaller groups—each led by a different adult—for Bible study. This got young people into a small group where they could actively participate.
Last evening, four adults and 19 young people attended our youth group meeting. We learned a new game, prayed for each other, and studied Hebrews 10:1-18. Then we gathered for a snack. Simple yet profound.
Over the years, I’ve been blessed to see students arrive at age 12 and mature through high school. I’ve worked with younger siblings of students I taught when we first started. I’ve watched them grow as young men and women of God. Plus, I’ve watched them encourage younger children. I’ve seen mentor-type relationships develop with adult helpers. And I’ve seen more fruit of the Spirit and growth in the disciplines of grace.
