Dan and I have been involved in student ministry since we were both about seventeen years of age. Through the years we have learned a few things that we would like to share with you, to help your Student Ministry flourish.

We would love to share with you, through our posts, what has worked for us and what has flopped - yes, we have had a few of those events that just didn't "reap the harvest" like we thought they would... unfortunately...

Let us save you some time and planning... we are here to answer your questions AND we are committed to doing this regularly.

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Today's question:

How do you show a student that you really care about getting involved in their lives, if they have been hurt by someone close to them, and they are majorly lacking in the trust department?

Answer:

Students KNOW that you are required to be at church. They know that as a student pastor or student leader "on the team", you are expected to show up to each youth event on the calendar.

If you are REALLY trying to connect with these students to help them learn that they can trust you, do something with them outside of the regularly scheduled programming.

Spending time with students OUTSIDE of church or scheduled student related activities is key to nourishing your relationship. The more they know you, the more they will trust you. (hopefully)

It is my opinion that students should NOT be at your home every weekend - I am talking about once a week, going out with the students that are in need of some extra attention. (outside of church time)

If you do not protect your home and your marriage, you will have no ministry.

I have learned that calling a student to let them know you are thinking of them, sending cards to their home, inviting them out for a delicious dessert (and coffee) allows you the chance to just sit back and relax together. If you feel that you cannot keep the conversation going on your own, take a sanguine with you and enjoy a good laugh.

See you next week!