Why Storytelling Is More Powerful Than Numbers

If your ministry ceased to exist how would it impact the community? When you think about that question does it cause:

• Panic
• Confusion
• Excitement 

The idea that your ministry doesn’t exist is a scary feeling, but not as scary as it existing and not making an impact. And that’s because we all want to know that what we are doing MATTERS.

We often gauge health on the numbers. We look at attendance and registration. Are parents coming to meetings? Do we have enough volunteers?

All of those metrics are important but they don’t tell the full story. Those metrics don’t always inspire. If you are looking to create a buzz and momentum around your ministry then you need to be able to tell stories and sometimes that start with:

CREATING YOUR OWN NARRATIVE

That’s right, sometimes you need to make up your own story. But, it isn’t a story of what’s happening, it’s a story of what you would like to see happen.

To create your own narrative think about a teen in your community who is really in need of Christ. They hear about your youth ministry, they come to it, they like it and become fully engaged.

Think about how that teen transforms through the years and how your ministry plays a role. Talk about that teenager as an adult and how your ministry matters.

What you’ve done is created a narrative that paints a bigger picture. It’s a story you can use to motivate your volunteers, parents and teens. It’s a story that can create helpful questions like:

• How can we make this happen?
• What resources would we need to put into place?
• Where are we currently expediting the wrong energy?

For more on creating your own narrative sign up for my free webinar on FEBRUARY 21st HERE

TRAIN YOUR LEADERS TO CLARIFY THEIR STORY

Why do the men and women in your ministry care so much about their faith? Why are they serving in your ministry? If they cannot answer those questions help them.

One of the best ways to reach teens is to connect them with adults who can clearly articulate their faith. That means knowing their own story and sharing how God has been a part of it.

Help your leaders develop their own story by encouraging journaling. Next time you have a meeting create small group time when they can talk about what God is doing in their life.

Leaders who can confidently share their own story will help teens share their own. And knowing your story is a true sign of owning your faith.

GIVE TEENS THE OPPORTUNITIES TO SHARE THEIR OWN

Teens want to know that they are not alone in their thoughts, feelings  or experiences. When you introduce them to a peer who can clearly talk about how God has been a part of their life you give them a story worth embracing.

Work with teens to share their story by having them answer the following questions:

• What was your impression of God, the church and faith like when you were a small child?
• Who is someone in your life that has been an inspirational for your faith?
• When have you strongly felt God’s presence or seen the Truth clearly lived out?
• How has your faith impacted a recent decision?

Have the teens write out their answers, let them practice it and then find an opportunity for them to share it in front of others.

Stories inspire people to think of something bigger than what they are living. When you share the story of a teenager who has met Christ, the impact it will have on your community are endless.

How do you help stories impact your ministry?

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