Come, Go, Come

In this post I said that I'd write about the short-mid term plan for the youth ministry of my church.

The plan is pretty simple.

COME: The children's ministry has kids come to us. Sure, we make contact in schools, but the bulk of our programs happen "on our turf." In short, kids (particularly school years 3-6) still come to us. Parents prefer it at this age.

GO: When dealing with teens we change tack. Instead of them coming to us, focus on going to them. We are heavily involved in the schools. We teach scripture. We get involved in the Christian activities at the school. What we hold and advertise is, primarily, not "on our turf."

Why would any church do this?

First, people are less likely to attend things on a church premises. They may be interested in exploring God and the meaning of faith, but they are increasingly less keen to darken the church doors.

Second, when Jesus sent out his disciples He told them to "go." He did not instruct His followers to wait for people to approach them.

So this year I'm aiming to "go."

To meet more kids ''on their turf."

Sure, we'll still do things to care and nurture the teens who are already plugged in, but it's time to decouple from the church building.

COME: Over time, those who have a relationship with the share spiritual conversations are invited to more activities in the church building, being integrated into the church family.