FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
I spent 17 of my 34 years of ministry as a youth leader. I loved pastoring students, walking alongside their families, and training interns to launch into their own ministries.
Suffice to say, youth leaders matter to me.
And they matter to our Standing Stone shepherds.
Youth ministry can be a lonely job at a church. A lot is expected of you–you’re caring for our kids, parents often remind youth workers–but there aren’t always commensurate levels of support and respect to match the level of expectation. This can weigh on youth ministry leaders. That’s why I’m thrilled that some members of our shepherding team specialize in walking alongside leaders in youth ministry.
Last week I had the great privilege of supporting three of our outstanding shepherds who specialize in caring for youth leaders–Derry Prenkert, Todd Pearage, Ronald Long (from L to R in the photo above)–as they served at Download Youth Ministry’s First Decade conference in Southern California. Each of our shepherds led a breakout session and connected with over a hundred youth ministry leaders from across the US.
Todd told me that, for him, one of the most rewarding aspects of caring for youth leaders at this conference was the one-on-one conversations he, Derry, and Ronald had with many of the attendees. They all look forward to continuing those conversations over the next few weeks and months. For a youth worker who feels isolated and under supported (sometimes disrespected), meeting with a Standing Stone shepherd can make the difference in a day…a month…a career.
Thank you for partnering with us as we serve youth ministry leaders by meeting them on their turf, bringing real encouragement in real time, and staying the course with those who are ride or die youth ministry servants. We’re honored to care for youth workers.
If you’re a youth leader, we see you. We value you. We honor you as Jesus does.
Thank you for all you do.
Weekly Encouragement
Youth ministry leaders play an essential role in the health and vitality of a Christlike community. With parents and grandparents, youth workers teach generations to come who God is and what He has done. They envision students regarding what God is doing and will do through eternity. Here’s how King David described the process of worship and wisdom being modeled for and passed on to youth:
I will exalt you, my God the King;
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise you
and extol your name for ever and ever.
Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation commends your works to another;
they tell of your mighty acts.
They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
They tell of the power of your awesome works—
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
They celebrate your abundant goodness
and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
Psalm 145:1-7, NIV
If you have an opportunity this week, encourage the youth leaders at your church. Perhaps you can send a card, email, or text of appreciation. Going out of your way to show care and respect for the youth leaders in your community will pay major dividends. I know this because I lived it. You can help us make a difference in youth ministry leaders’ lives. Let’s do this together!
