Why Students Will Come Back Each Week

We love and hate numbers.  They make us feel good and horrible at the same time, especially when it comes to attendance.  Instead of desiring one number desire consistent ones.

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A healthy youth ministry doesn’t necessarily have large numbers it has once that are consistent.  Consistent in growth and in participation.  In order to promote consistency in your ministry you need to consistently:

CREATE A WELCOMING AND LOVING ENVIRONMENT

Teens are looking to belong and be loved.  Most places they go they are being judged, evaluated and tested.  While you want to challenge your teens you need to make sure it’s done in an environment with love.

To set up a loving and welcoming environment make sure people are by the doors to greet students.  Get to know the participants by name.  And be sure to express your gratitude for their presence.

FOLLOW UP AND CHECK INTO THEIR LIVES

The days between your last gathering and next are chaotic.  During that time it’s easy to lose sight of what’s important.  Make sure you are checking in with teens as much as possible.

That means finding other adults (Especially small group leaders) to call, text or send an email.  Ask them how they are doing or simply say, “I’m praying for you this week.”  When they know you care they’ll see that you are worth their time.

BUILT A FOUNDATION WITH PARENTS

Teenagers are finding independence but their parents still have a lot of influence in their lives.  To get parents on board make sure you speak into their lives as well.

Make sure parents are clear with what’s going on in your ministry.  Share with them opportunities to grow as parents and as disciples of Christ.  When they see that you are there for them, they’ll do their best to make sure you are a part of their teen’s life.

CONNECT THEM INTO LOVING RELATIONSHIPS

Teens come back when they feel connected.  One of the best ways to connect teens is through small groups.  A small group is about 6-8 teens lead by two loving adults.

Make sure these groups pray together, share life together and pray for one another.  When teens feel like they are a part of a loving community they’ll want to be a consistent part of it. (More on small groups HERE)

SPEAK INTO THEIR LIVES

There is so much noise in this world and teenagers are looking for direction.  If your messages and curriculum speaks into their lives they’ll come back.

Each week you have the opportunity to share with them the Gospel.  Make it relevant by showing how it’s a part of their lives and give them practical steps to live it out.

A consistent ministry is going to give a teen stability.  It’s something they can rely on to speak into their lives, inspire, challenge and love them.