Monday, April 2, 2012

Graduation from Church?

Statics show that 65% of high school graduates, also "graduate" from church (no longer attend).  Student/Youth Leaders, what are you doing to decrease this 65%?

Here are some ideas to help decrease this average:

1. Foundation. In Matthew 7:24 Jesus says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." A students foundation must be in Jesus Christ.  He is our foundation.  Students need to be taught what this means and should be able to look to you (the student minister) for such an example.
2. Stay connected. In the small world we live in, thanks to the internet, we can stay connected.  It is not the same as seeing the students every Sunday and Wednesday, but being connected to former students allows you to continue to encourage and love.  Another way is to introduce students to former students who are already at the university who you know are willing to help the younger student make the transition.

3. Equipping Parents.  You aren't the only influence in these students lives, we must equip their parents for this transition.  Parents should be made aware of the information concerning the "dropout rate" and how to combat it.  Loving students through the storms instead of bashing lets the student know they are still loved even in a time of confusion.

This is not an exhaustive list, but we want to start the conversation.  What you are doing to help decrease the 65%.  Please comment and share your ideas to help our your fellow youth minister/worker.

God Bless.

Jeremy

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