When I look back over my years in youth ministry, I fondly remember the relationships that shaped my philosophy and practice. Some came through face-to-face mentoring, ongoing relationships with seasoned youth leaders who encouraged, coached, and believed in me.
Others were peers serving alongside me in our local networks, sharing the same mission in our communities. Still others were voices I met at conferences or training events, speakers who took the time to answer a question, return an email, or simply notice me. Those were the connections that helped me grow and mature as a youth worker.
Now, I find myself among the "old heads" in youth ministry. I'm 50 years old and have been working with students for over 30 years. I've served in multiple churches, large and small, across different seasons and settings.
I am where I am today because of God's faithfulness in my calling, and the generous investment of other youth leaders who cared enough about students to help me become a better one.
At some point, something shifted. I felt a deep desire to become that kind of youth leader, the one who helps other youth leaders. That realization set me on a new trajectory, one that's coming into full view today.
When a Conversation Becomes a Calling
Recently, I met with a youth worker serving full-time in ministry. We had a great conversation, catching up on family, summer activities, and what was coming up in the fall. As we talked about ministry plans and leadership lessons, the questions started flowing.
I love the questions.
As we wrapped up and went our separate ways, I was struck by the significance of our meeting. Youth leaders need youth leaders. And maybe even more, youth leaders need seasoned youth leaders.
How to Invest in the Next Generation of Youth Leaders
If you've been in youth ministry for a while, can I encourage you to be intentional about investing in a younger leader? Here are a few simple ways to start:
1. Reach Out First
Sometimes younger leaders don't yet see the value of connecting with someone who's been doing this a while. Take the first step. Call them up, buy them coffee or lunch, and let them know you care.
2. Get to Know Them
Before diving into ministry talk, get personal. Are they married or single? Do they have kids? What's their story? Ask questions that help you understand who they are before talking about what they do.
3. Listen More Than You Talk
When you've been in ministry a while, it's easy to fill the conversation with stories and advice. But sometimes the best gift you can give is your full attention. Listen to their experiences, their challenges, and their hopes.
4. Let Them Steer the Conversation
I've found it helpful to let younger leaders guide our time together. Let them bring up the topics or questions that are on their minds and hearts.
5. Ask Questions That Help Them Grow
When it's your turn to ask, go deeper. Ask questions that make them think, that draw out reflection, that help them become a better leader, not just a busier one.
6. Pray for Them
This one should go without saying, but it matters deeply. Pray with them in the moment and for them regularly. Ask for specific ways you can pray, and then follow up to see how God is moving.
The Bottom Line
Veteran youth leaders, are you engaging and supporting the next generation of leaders? If not, why not? Consider reaching out to one this week, and see what God might do through your investment.
If you already are, that's awesome! Keep going strong.
And I'd love to hear from you. What would you add to this list? Drop your best mentoring tip or encouragement in the comments below.