Supporting Youth & Children’s Ministries

Dear Friends,

Last Sunday we recognized and celebrated the youth of our parish. While we did have some youth leading in capacities that aren't usual, I am thankful that we aren't a parish that waits until "Youth Sunday" to include children and youth in our services. It's something we strive to do every Sunday.

After the service on Sunday, a number of our youth along with Kelsey Wofford and Jody Davis, our current and former youth directors, headed to Asheville, NC, for a week of fun and service. Their pictures tell me that it's been a wonderful trip!

But all of this got me thinking about how we, as a parish, can better support our youth and children's ministries. I've thought about this a lot, having served in lay leadership positions in children's and youth ministry. So here are a few ways that you can continue to support our youth and children:

- When they are in worship, be thankful. Sometimes the younger ones will fidget and be too noisy. Sometimes the older ones will wear sandals when you think they should be in dress shoes. And yet, the best thing we can do is be thankful. They are with us, they are learning to worship just like we are. Your smile to a fidgety five-year-old can reassure them that this is a place where they are loved.

- Get to know the youth and children of the church. Make a point to strike up a conversation. Ask how they are doing—do this especially if you don't know them well. It might seem awkward at first. But some of the best relationships I've seen grow between youth, children, and adults of a parish have been through those simple, consistent interactions. One of the biggest predictors of whether someone will continue in church as a young adult has to do with whether they know people in their parish care about them and whether they have relationships with people besides their clergy and youth leaders. Be that person; be that relationship.

- Encourage youth leaders (both staff and volunteers). Tell them you appreciate the work they do. I can tell you from experience that youth and children's ministry is—often all at once—the most challenging and rewarding work in the church. So those doing that work need your encouragement! Also, perhaps consider if you might be called to join them in that work.

- Finally, if you are a parent, make church, Sunday school, and church activities a priority. This doesn't mean there's any judgement if you miss things now and then. It just means that your child is going to have a natural hunger for community. You prioritizing the life of the church will give them a chance to meet that community need at church. Of course, there are other good things that kids will participate in and other good communities to which they'll belong. But, as a parent, you are empowered to set priorities for your family.

These are just a few thoughts on ways you can be an advocate for children and youth in our community. Whatever your role, I pray that you value and take joy in our call to form youth and children as followers of Jesus.

God bless,

Fr. Quinn+