Beyond Games: 3 Creative Ways to Engage Teens in Youth Ministry

In my house, I'm the least competitive. At least that's what I tell myself as I'm getting my butt kicked in a board game. But even though I claim to be the least competitive, I still love games. For many years, games were a huge part of our ministry. When we had weekly large group programs, creating something that was both engaging and entertaining was a challenge—but when done right, it was so rewarding.

While we loved coming up with new ideas, we had a few regular go-to's that always worked:

• Simon Says/Sit Down If

• Impossible Shot – Throwing or launching a funny object at a target across the youth space.

• Screen Trivia – Usually pop culture or picture-based.

• Minute to Win It Games – Inspired by the popular TV show.

Most teens loved these games, but we quickly realized they weren’t for everyone. While games have a place in ministry, they’re not the only way to make things fun. And if you’re going to engage the next generation, it’s important to broaden your perspective beyond games and icebreakers. Here are three ideas we’ve used to create a fun, faith-filled atmosphere—without all the competition:

SHARE THE GOSPEL THROUGH A LIFE SKILL

We once had a small group leader who owned a restaurant. She wanted to teach the girls in her group how to make some of their favorite dishes. She asked if she and her co-leader could hold their next small group in the restaurant kitchen. Her plan was to use the experience to witness why she feels God’s joy when she prepares a meal. I told her to go for it, and the results were incredible. Teens got to know their leader better, made a real connection between faith and life, and walked away with a new recipe.

Teens love discovering something new about themselves. Your parish is likely filled with adults who have skills and knowledge that are useful and interesting to the next generation. Empowering catechists to share those skills through faith will:

• Build stronger bonds among participants.

• Show the next generation that the Church is relevant in their lives.

• Broaden their perspective on a Bible story or Church teaching.

The key is to keep it personal. Don’t just teach or share a life skill because you think everyone needs to learn it. Make it meaningful and connected to faith. I’d also recommend taking this approach in small groups rather than large ones because it’s more personal and impactful.

INVITE THEM TO BE CREATIVE AND COLLABORATIVE

How does art or media fit into your ministry? Whether you’re working with a large group of kids or a small group of teens, incorporating creative collaboration produces a fun experience and helps teens articulate their faith in new ways. Here are a few ideas we’ve used:

• Shark Tank Outreach: Break teens into groups and have them research, create, and pitch an idea that addresses one of the Corporal Works of Mercy. In their pitch, they’ll share what they need and explain why the parish should invest in their idea. A panel of adults critiques their pitches, and everyone learns something new.

• Creative Storytelling: Give them a Bible story (e.g., the Prodigal Son) and ask them to retell it from a different perspective (e.g., the older brother). They can use video, skits, or other creative mediums. Host a screening or showcase at your next youth night.

• Artistic Expression: Provide scripture imagery (e.g., John 15: "I am the vine, you are the branches") and give them materials like paint, pencils, or clay to interpret the imagery. Display their art in the parish center, on social media, or during a gallery night.

These activities can work for both small and large groups. Teens and kids will appreciate the chance to step outside the usual routine and explore their faith in fresh ways. Plus, you’re introducing them to new skills and perspectives.

GET OUT OF THE YOUTH ROOM

We all love a good field trip. While we’ve all planned visits to local shrines or basilicas, other options can be both fun and faith-enriching. For example:

• Go for a hike and connect it to how faith is a journey.

• See a movie in theaters and discuss the themes over food afterward.

• Host small groups at a public space like a mall or restaurant to show how faith extends beyond Church walls.

While large groups can do some of these activities, small groups often create deeper bonding experiences. When teens connect faith to everyday life—whether it’s a hike or a movie discussion—it shows them that faith is relevant wherever they go.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

I love games and believe they have a place in children’s and youth ministry. But if you want the fun to expand beyond competition, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Include your co-leaders in the process and try introducing young people to something personal, creative, or outside the usual routine. You’ll engage them more deeply and broaden their perspective of what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ.

What ideas are you ready to try? Who in your parish has a skill or passion that could inspire the next generation? Start small, think big, and watch how these approaches transform your ministry.