Pushing the schoolyard

This year I have pushed something which, previously, I'd let sit idle on the sidelines.

Christian ministries in schools, especially lunchtime groups.

Over the last few months my eyes have been progressively opened to their benefit, having looked at ways to engage kids "on their turf."

I don't think that lunchtime groups are the silver-bullet-of-youth-ministry-growth (as a growth strategy it can work, but building relationships within 30 minute lunchtime blocks is difficult), but they do serve an important purpose.

First, their school is a natural mission field. Christian teens are exposed to literally hundreds of other students who need to hear the message of Jesus and see faith lived out.

Second, in light of the vast (or daunting) opportunities which do exist in most schools, believers can gain a lot from knowing they are not alone. Although the harvest is plentiful, it's good to know their are other workers.

And third, ministries held on the school grounds are a natural first step for someone who is seeking and is a non-confrontational first step. It is much easier to ask someone to come to a classroom during lunch, then rock up to a church on a Friday or a Sunday.