1. Losing teens. Whether to the world, another group, or relocation, losing a teen pulls a minister down. And it always seems to happen when the kid was making a breakthrough, or having a tremendous impact on the rest of the group.

Tip: Don’t take it personally when a teen leaves. It may be her parent’s decision. Or he may not have fit in well with the dynamics of your group and decided to try another group. Instead of being hard on yourself, pray and ask God to bless the teen wherever he or she may go.

2. Lack of Commitment. “How many want to get together and pray before school at your campus?…No one?..Okay, then how many would be interested in hosting a free car wash next month for the senior citizens? … Anyone?…No?…Okay, then how about…” In youth ministry cycles there come periods when no one acts like they want to do anything for the Lord. Casual Christianity seems to rule.

Tip: When no one wants to get involved, have the teens plan, and host the event. By giving them ownership, they put in the time and energy. Teens might not mind if your plans don’t work, but they will if their plans don’t work.

3. Poor Attendance. I remember showing up one Saturday morning to go with my youth group to a rally. Only the youth minister showed up out of a group with seventy teens. Do you know what my youth minister did? He took me to the rally!

Tip: Don’t worry about poor attendance. View it as an opportunity to give special attention to the handful that do show up.

Your Partners in Youth Ministry,

Paul and Al

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