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YOUTH MINISTRY
Why Aren't They "Always Glad They Came"?
by Greg and Beth Miller
The familiar theme song of a popular television program from the 1980’s included the lyrics “...where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came...” It communicates a message crucial to creating a situation where youth enjoy participating in Bible study. Young people want a trusting atmosphere where they can feel comfortable asking questions, and people who work with youth can help create such an environment. A few suggestions follow.
Avoid calling on someone to pray or read Scripture aloud unless you know them well enough or have checked with them ahead of time. If youth feel self-conscious, they may stumble over unfamiliar words. Some youth may even have reading disorders like dyslexia, or slight speech impediments such as lisps or stutters.
Be sure to communicate that the opinions of each person are valid and important. Youth may respond very little if they suspect they might be ridiculed. Within the boundaries of appropriateness, allow for a free range of ideas, thoughts, and opinions.
Include activities that involve the whole group without placing pressure on youth to share their responses unless they so desire.
When posing questions, use words that communicate openness and possibility. Words like “might” and “some” readily declare that more than one answer exists. Youth may respond more as discussion parameters are widened.
Lead in such a way that you connect with youth who have different learning styles. Persistently using the same teaching methods will capture the attention only of those whose strength is in that learning style. Your natural teaching style may lead you to use a few comfortable procedures or techniques. Consider trying a few different types of activities—this may increase the possibility that you are communicating with a greater majority of youth.
Through intentional effort, a Bible study group can become a place where youth are always glad they came.
Greg Miller is a youth minister, and Beth Miller is a free lance writer. They are married and live in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
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