Subscribe to the Network10 Things every Youth Minister should remember about Parents Part 1
If you have been in ministry for awhile I’m sure you have hundreds of parent stories to tell others. Many of your stories may be inspiring, funny, sad or just outrageous. Even if you have been in youth ministry for a short time I’m sure you already have tons of stories. The truth is parents make up your youth ministry experiences. They are a part of the package in many cases. They can build you up or tear you down. I have learned many different approaches with parents. I have developed as a leader from discovering the types of parents within ministry. I think we have all dealt with; the parent who irritates you to the point of re-examining reasons you have chosen this profession; the parent that only sees all the wrong their child does and never takes responsibility for their choices; the parents who want you to fix their child; the overbearing parent; the drop off parent; the too involved parent; the parent that wants their child to be perfect at all times; the not involved at all parent;, the supportive parent, the parent who is praying for you; the parent who is willing to go above and beyond to assist. These parent types sound familiar, right? I’m sure you can relate to a few of the scenarios, I listed if not all. The fact of the matter is parents are a tremendous support system! Parents assist you in growing into the leader God has called you to become whether the situations are good or bad. I have learned not to take situations personal, or to allow people to steal my confidence through comments or concerns. Remember family ministry begins in the home. The more you equip and empower parents the easier your job becomes. Take time and exam how your church includes parents in youth ministry. How does youth ministry connect to adult ministry? Just a little thought to get you thinking…
Re-establish who you work for and hold to Colossians 3:23. In my attempt to please God he covers me in all other areas.
10 things every youth leader should remember:
- Youth ministry is Family Ministry
- There is no Us and Them. Be the bridge
- There is no job within youth ministry where you can only deal with students
- Parents are your partners
- Your job is not to replace parents but to empower and support them
To be continued…I would love to hear your stories and thoughts on dealing with parents in Ministry, please post your comments.
