Wednesday, December 07, 2005

What New Youth Pastors Really Need To Know

1. There is no such thing as "cool clipart." It all looks ridiculous and cheesy. Let's just call it what it is and go on with life.

2. No. We really don't NEED one more lock-in, car wash, fundraiser, or t-shirt.

3. Okay, I got carried away with that last one - we do need lots of t-shirts.

4. Dress does matter. Don't ever show up to a youth event in a suit or business casual for that matter.

5. Students are loud, immature, and random. Don't confuse that with stupidity.

6. It is completely acceptable to name an event - 5.36, Fastbreak, Amped, Unplugged, My Dear Aunt Sally's Rose Garden.

7. It is completely uncool and ridiculous to name the entire youth ministry. They are drawn by relationship, not fluff. Plus the guy/girl behind you is going to change it anyway.

8. Your volunteers are your greatest assett and lifelines. They are not obstacles. Trust them implicitly.

9. Get some rubber chickens.

10. Take your calling seriously but not yourself.

11. The stupider the game - the more popular. Conversely, the more complicated the game, the lamer it ends up being.

12. All games are better in the dark.

13. And with loud music.

14. The best conversations happen on the way home and after curfew.