This week I will be engaged in the ETCH Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, by leading multiple breakout sessions. It is a Next-Gen conference that focuses attention on kids and students and our ministry to them. For many of us, our teenage years were formative ones spiritually. Some of us developed deep ties to our churches, to the Lord, and to adults who led those ministries. There are some of you reading this post whom God called into ministry during your teenage years.

Student ministry plays a crucial role in the life of your church. It is a part of your ministry that focuses on the spiritual growth and development of young people. While often considered a separate entity from the main church congregation, student ministry is an integral part of the larger church body. No matter the number of people who currently are members of your congregation, a percentage will be students. Your community will have unreached students who have no connection to any congregation. Let’s consider seven reasons why a Next-Gen ministry to students is so important for them, and for your church.

Spiritual Formation

One of the primary functions of student ministry is to foster spiritual formation in young individuals. Adolescence is a pivotal time in a person’s life when they are forming their values, beliefs, and worldview. By providing a dedicated space for teenagers to learn about God, engage in worship, and explore their faith, student ministries can positively influence their spiritual journey. This formation is not only beneficial for the students but also for the long-term health of the church.

Building a Strong Foundation

Student ministry helps build a strong foundation of faith in young people. When teenagers are grounded in their beliefs and have a deep understanding of the Bible, they are better equipped to navigate the challenges and questions they will encounter in the world. This foundation can lead to a more committed and resilient adult faith, which is essential for the church’s continuity and growth.

Community and Connection

Students often face unique challenges and pressures in their lives, and having a supportive community can make all the difference. Student ministry provides a safe and welcoming environment where teenagers can connect with peers who share their faith. These relationships can be transformative, offering emotional support and accountability during a critical phase of life. Research that was conducted and reported in the book Flip The Script demonstrated that the number one reason young people disengaged with the church was because they had weak connection with adults and even fellow members of student ministries.

Leadership Development

Investing in student ministry is an investment in the future leadership of the church. Many pastors, elders, and church leaders trace their spiritual journey back to their involvement in youth groups. By nurturing leadership qualities in young people, the local church ensures a pipeline of dedicated and passionate individuals who can take on leadership roles in the future.

Outreach and Evangelism

Student ministry can also be a powerful tool for outreach and evangelism. Teenagers often invite their friends to youth group events, creating opportunities to introduce non-believers to the message of Christ. Through innovative and engaging programs with adult leaders who are committed to relating to students, those ministries can reach young people who might not otherwise set foot in a church.

Bridging Generational Gaps

The church is made up of diverse generations, and student ministry serves as a bridge between generations. It allows older members of the church to mentor and invest in the lives of younger ones, creating a sense of unity and continuity within the congregation. This intergenerational connection fosters a richer and more vibrant church community.

Encouraging Family Involvement

Student ministry also encourages family involvement in the church. When parents see the positive impact of student ministry on their children’s lives, they are more likely to engage in church activities themselves. This strengthens family bonds and deepens the church’s sense of community.

Student ministry is not just a side activity within the local church but a vital component that plays a critical role in shaping the future of the church. By focusing on spiritual formation, building strong foundations, creating a sense of community, fostering leadership development, and facilitating outreach, student ministry contributes to the overall health and growth of the church. It bridges generational gaps, encourages family involvement, and equips young people to become dedicated, informed, and passionate followers of Christ. As the church invests in its students, it is investing in its own future and ensuring its continued relevance in an ever-changing world.