Looking for Leaders
A couple of days ago we discussed the makeup of a quality youth staff leader. But even though you understand that, you might be asking yourself, “Where Do I Find Them?” Here’s a couple hints toward places you may not have thought of. They all have pros and cons though, so choose wisely.
College Students
PROS: They’re usually young, full of energy, easy to excite, connect well with students, and usually have a schedule flexible enough to be a huge help in your ministry.
CONS: Many college students are barely older than the students in your ministry. For this reason, many students will not respect them as leaders and will treat them more as peers. You might try and put them with younger students. Also, college students may be a bit shaky still on their leadership skills, their discipline and even what they believe. You will have to put more energy and time into college students, but it may be well worth it.
Parents
PROS: They understand where the students are because they live with them 24/7. Sometimes they don’t think they know much about students but it’s one of those areas where the more you know, the less you feel like you know. Even they may not understand what a huge contribution they can make to your youth ministry by providing a window into the inner lives of the students. Their schedules are already built around the students and they can provide you great feedback on how your ministry is affecting parents.
CONS: A lot of students will clam up if too many parents are around. The parents may not even realize the affect they are having with the students. For this reason, it’s almost never a good idea to pair parents up with their own kids in small groups.
Retired People
PROS: Retired folks can be a GOLD MINE. Some think older people won’t connect with students but I have seen just the opposite. Many times older men and women have the time and the money to treat students extra special (going out for coffee, going to ball games, etc.). Also, their experience in life and the example they have lived can have a great impact on your students.
CONS: Some older leaders can easily get stuck in a routine or sometimes get focused on the past and not the future. You just have to help them with that. Make time to often ask their opinion and take the time to communicate clearly your vision when you disagree with them. You’re the leader and you have to lead the older folks too. Don’t shy away from that. Just be confident, kind and communicate well and all will be good.
The bottom line here is that there are often great leaders hidden within our congregations. We just have to go find them. The key is balance. Don’t get all your leaders from one area. Try to spread it out and you’ll make a great team.
