Connecting With Teens Doesn’t Have To Be Complicated

While we’re in a situation, unlike any other, it isn’t the first time your community has had a crisis. The communities that I’ve served have faced an array of situations that could be considered history-changing; the difference is that this is a situation that impacts the global community. There are new strategies to learn; however, many of our basic core principles need to stay in place. When your teens and families face an impossible situation, it’s important to walk with them through that, and we can do that by:

GIVING TEENS THE TIME TO PROCESS THE SITUATION

It might be an understatement, but there is a lot to process. It’s easy to go into advice mode when the people we care about are facing a difficult situation; however, it’s not the best strategy. Your teens need empathetic listening, which comes from providing opportunities to process, lament, and mourn. There is wisdom to pass on, but at this point, it isn’t appropriate.

To allow them time to process, ask them simple questions, and listening. If there is silence, then listen to that silence. Traditionally, this is done in small groups and when we interact with them at church. Since we can’t randomly encounter them, it’s even more important to be intentional and let them know you are available. That can happen with a card, an email, and a phone call. No matter how you reach them to let them know you are accessible.

PROVIDE MULTIPLE VOICES TO SPEAK INTO THE LIVES OF YOUR COMMUNITY

Your voice matters. However, it’s more prosperous when you can add to it. Teens will connect with you in specific ways, but if you want them to embrace God’s call to their life, you need to provide additional voices. At the same time, your volunteers might be overwhelmed with the current situation; you need to ask them to reach out and let the families impacted by your ministry that someone cares.

No matter the structure of your ministry, it’s time to create a list, divide it, and touch base. Remind your leaders to listen and collect any information that might help you serve those families better. This is not the time to be a lone ranger. If you don’t have enough volunteers, ask parents or coworkers to help you out. By expanding your voice, you are reminding people that the church is more significant than a building.

INVEST IN THEIR PARENTS MORE THAN EVER

It’s hard to say what’s going on in everyone’s homes. Even though virtual meetings give us a peek into everyone’s homes, it doesn’t reveal the angst or stress is going on behind the scenes. Families are stressed because they are learning how to cope with an ever-changing situation. While we are in an unprecedented time, what needs to be done isn’t much different than before.

When you put together plans to reach out to teens, ask for the parents first, show them that you are want to partner with them in the life of their teens, ask them about their work and home situation. Offer them time to talk with you and cultivate those relationships. They’ll not only give you further insight into their teens but a better idea of the landscape many families are facing during this time.

Whether you are in a time of crisis or things are normal, it’s important to remember that ministry isn’t about accomplishing a task. What we do as youth, children, and family ministers is walk with people. It’s reminding those in our community that they don’t have to be alone. So, before you think about the next activity or game to plan online, write an email, a letter, or pick up the phone and ask your community, “How are you doing?”

What simple steps are you taking to connect with your community?

Are you looking for a community? Check out what we have to offer at MYM U. Don’t go through ministry alone. 

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