I’m someone who loves to laugh and have a good time. I’m also someone who doesn’t like to waste time. If I’m ever in that situation the first question that pops into my mind is, “Why are we doing this?”
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The question comes from a need of purpose. And in youth ministry it’s easy to do a ton of things that have no purpose, including fun.
Now fun does belong in youth ministry. In fact it’s an important part of reaching out to teenagers and growing disciples because it can:
To give your fun purpose and avoid people asking the question, “Why are we doing this?” you need to make sure you:
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
It’s easier to have fun with people you know. And that’s going to be easy with teens who come on a regular basis, but the question becomes, “How about those new people?”
To overcome that challenge you have to really know the teens in your community. Discover:
Use the information to reach out to teens who are not yet there. This way when they walk in and see something that caters to them they’ll feel more at ease.
THINK AROUND THE GOOFINESS
While messy, and goofy games have their value they can sometimes alienate teens or lead to embarrassing moments. You don’t have to avoid them completely, but then again you don’t have to rely on them heavily either.
Look at activities that are clever or amusing. Research different styles of humor and comedy. Again, get to know your audience and figure out activities that can break tension, create community and not be a pain to clean up.
REVIEW IT AND MEASURE IT’S IMPACT
To find the balance between fun and discipleship you need to constantly measure the impact. That means sitting down after an activity and asking your team:
This will allow you to improve what you are doing and even become more efficient.
CREATE CLARITY ON IT’S PURPOSE
The question, “Why are we doing this?” is a response to a lack of clarity. Create clarity by having some emcee the activity. Give an explanation to why you are about to do what you are about to do.
If it’s purpose is to just laugh, make sure people know. If it’s to help them learn or gain a new perspective let them know. Set clear expectations so that you can gain bigger buy in.
STAY FOCUSED ON RELATIONSHIPS
The reason teens come back is because of the relationships they form. Remember fun can strengthen those bonds and it can also weaken them. Be careful when it comes to activities that could result in embarrassment. One simple game could undo years of relational building.
Games, and fun activities have their place in youth ministry. The problem is when it consumes what we do and becomes the focus on our ministry. Find that balance by giving everything that you do a purpose.
[reminder] What’s your opinion on the fun factor in student ministry? Do you feel it hurts or helps and how? [/reminder]