my latest middle school ministry column for youthworker journal is online, called “12 things to love about middle school ministry.”
i’ll list the 12 “things” here, but you’ll have to click through to read the expanded comments on each.
1) Middle school ministry is about shaping.
2) Middle schoolers are easy to connect with.
3) They’re willing to try anything.
4) Then there’s the wonder of abstract thinking.
5) Which leads us to the process of doubting and faith-development.
6) They’re unpredictable.
7) Parents are still involved in their lives.
8) They have more time than high schoolers.
9) Most are not yet jaded.
10) They’re passionate.
11) They’re forgiving.
12) They’re fun!
any more you would add?
(btw: if you resonate with this post, i hope you’ll consider joining our tribe at the 2nd annual middle school ministry campference!)
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
They think you are cool because you can drive and grow facial hair.
They’re really creative
i need a “like” button for jimmy’s comment.
when they act immature, at least they have the excuse of still being immature (unlike us adults)
you alluded to it in the unpredictable one but to highlight it:
they end up teaching/discipling me (about God, scripture, life) all the time, too
-how do we help that homeless guy?
-can I help lead worship?
and a billion other questions and statements that God uses to stretch me in my own faith, not to mention the impact of constantly being used by God to connect Him and His word with JHers
Everything you allsaid is why Middle School kids are awesome! One more, the are fearless!
*they
I think that I would have to add a couple things.
1. They ask honest questions
2. They’re the church
They’re the future