Landed in Hot-tssssssss-lanta

So I’m in Atlanta on the eve of some conference (don’t know the name) but hopefully it will give me some insight on how to better improve the program on the weekends. This past Thursday I gave a message at our CN midweek. My main point was how when it comes to raising Godly youth it goes beyond the walls of the church and into the homes of our many parishioners. I often find it frustrating when I get a tired parent who wants to blame me for teaching enough “religion” to there kid. I know they are speaking out of frustration, but the truth of the situation is that no matter what I do or how affective I am, everything that is done in the one hour a week I have each student can disappear when the child goes home or to school the next day.
As adults we hold such a major responsibility, we are being observed 24/7 by youth and children. They look to us an example, judging if what they see is something they would like to aspire to. We all did this growing up, that’s why we developed heros and role models. We are shaped by those we surround our selves with.
When I was 6 months into this job I remember this one email a coworker showed me. In the email a concerned parent informed us how upset he was because during our youth Mass an adult giving out the Eucharist was wearing an embroided sweatshirt with a beer emblem. He was disappointed because of the example it set for the kids. The truth is he was right, I shouldn’t have worn that sweatshirt (yes it was me). Even though I am over 21 and a responsible drinker if the youth pastor or an adult who is associated with the church is saying beer is okay, but not clarifying for who then teens can easily get the wrong impression. I know I was the same way but it still amazes me. As stupid as binge drinking and partying can make you we still strive to be a part of that scene. Beer is not bad, wine is not bad, but drinking underage and to abuse alcohol is a sin and doesn’t do anyone any good. Our image is so essential when it comes to influencing others how can we not want to better ourselves. And who better to follow and model ourselves after than Jesus Christ. That’s why when you work with youth, or are constantly surrounded by them checking in and becoming aware of your image is essential.
I’m proud to say that most of my minister hold good character and moral and I know as their youth pastor and leader that I need to instill with them the confidence of carrying on and deepening Christ’ image on their hearts and actions. I want to continue to surround myself with good people, people who love Christ. I need to raise up student leaders, teens who will lead their peers but I need to raise the bar and set up expectations. The problem these days with anyone is that our expectations have lowered and wandered away from Christ. While it’s important to treat all with the love of God, it’s also important to strengthen and encourage discipline to follow God’s plan that is laid out for us. I don’t know, just something I’ve been thinking about lately.