This Can Get You Fired…Or Worse
It was an awesome game in theory. The idea was students had to chug a bottle of soda and then eat 5 saltines, first one to whistle won the prize….
It was supposed to be the perfect youth ministry game. Teens were to chug a soda, eat some saltines and first one to whistle won. No one whistled, but one girl puked. It was my fifth week on the job. I panicked as I called the parent to apologize for my shenanigans, she laughed and said it wasn’t a problem. Let’s just say that game is in the, “Let’s Never Do This Again” pile of games.
Courtesy of meddygarnet/Creative Commons License
Games are an important part of youth ministry. They:
- Build Camaraderie
- Break The Ice
- Create A Fun Atmosphere
- Drive Home A Theme
They are a tradition of youth ministry and can create some of the best memories. The tension is when a youth ministry has too many senseless games and becomes all about entertainment. Youth ministry is more than a social hour for teens and too many games will lead to that. To give them a solid purpose and positive impact:
- Test Them Out: You need to know how your game flows and goes before you run it live. This means simulating the game (Or components of it) and sitting down with your team ahead of time. This way you can be prepared for potential problems and outcomes. It’s about building a little margin.
- Choose Safety First: When someone gets sick or hurt it does not look good. It’s not only a liability issue, but an embarrassment one as well. No teen wants to be the girl that broke her arm throwing a rubber chicken, or the guy who threw up from too many jelly beans. The games can be physical, just make sure safety is in mind.
- Have A Point: Your games do not need to have a profound theme that ties into your message. It could be fun, it could be silly; however, explain to the students why you are doing something fun and silly. Is it to break the stress of their life? Is it to build camaraderie amongst their peers? Give it a purpose and point so teens know why you are asking them to do what you want them to do.
- Keep It Tight: When a game drags on you begin to lose the engagement of your audience. Make sure you time it out, and have the materials prepared. If the game is only a few students have an emcee bring people along. If it’s a large group play music in the background with a timer. If the game feels like it’s over (Even before it’s over), then move on.
Games are fun, they are an important part of your ministry. You might do them in a large group setting, small groups or at camp. No matter when and where you do your games and activities make sure they have a purpose by taking them seriously.
What’s your favorite youth ministry game?