Is it possible to form an "international network of youth ministries?" Twenty-five international youth ministry leaders gathered in Pompano Beach, Florida December 4-7, 2012 to discuss the possibilities. These hand-picked delegates – both men and women, younger and older – represented 15 countries and five continents. They prayed, dialogued, reviewed research and shared personal insights. They shared what God is doing among youth in their countries. And, they poured themselves into and assessing what a global platform for youth ministry networking might look like.
It's not that international youth ministry networking hasn't been attempted. The global Youth Commission of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), who initiated this meeting, had built a "structural" partnership that served the WEA regional groups. In the 12 years I have served on this Commission, 50 national networks (youth commissions) were established for reaching youth in their respective countries. But the outcome of the discussions in Florida seemed to be more in the direction of a "relational" partnership. While there is value in retaining some structure, a strong relational commitment between the top leadership may give an internal impetus and creativity that would propel the partnership to greater productivity and results.
Though specific conclusions are still being formed, it was remarkable to see what happened as this group of relative strangers came together for the first time.
What was "remarkable" was to see the common vision and commitment to reach the world's youth and to do it through cooperation and partnership with one another. It was obvious that God was the author of that – that the vision to reach the world's youth is God's desire given to many, not just a few. There was a sense of excitement and ownership about the potential for a high quality partnership that could develop – one that is freshly designed for this generation of leadership, for great effectiveness.
Some of the other highlights from the discussions of the week:
· There is a common desire for a global partnership.
· Someone observed how encouraging it was to realize that we are not alone; there are lots of us doing similar things.
· Networking today must move from a posture of control to a posture of service.
· Create platforms and space for the younger generation to be personally engaged.
· More than ever, this is a time for the church to be both humble and bold.
· The church must be missional in a pluralistic context: We must maintain the mission of proclamation; but we also need to have a mission of listening [to the culture].
· A younger leader highlighted the value of intergenerational ministry – combining the value of history and stories from the past, while creating new space for those who are younger.
· We need to explore and celebrate what we can achieve together. Partnering helps us generate ideas and momentum that can change the paradigm.