WVUMC Fair Share Giving Develops Leaders in Youth Ministry
by Schauna Chambers
I am always looking for ways to dive deeper, gain more understanding and learn more about the ever-evolving youth ministry. A couple of months ago, I heard about an opportunity to go to the Perkins School of Youth Ministry conference in Dallas, Texas, from the Youth Ministry Network Facebook group.*
Opening worship was amazing. Marlon Hall spoke to us about taking his ministry out of the church and into different parts of the world. He reminded us that we are the church; the building is not. He helped us focus more on what we love instead of what we fear, and he challenged us not to be afraid to take risks. It was an exciting start to the conference!
I signed up for two courses. The first, Beyond Nine Square, focused on games, because what is a youth group without games, right?! We looked at different games, applied them to lessons, and found the right kind of game for our youth. We also learned a valuable lesson, not all games have to have a deeper meaning. Sometimes it is okay for youth to have a moment to escape!
My second class was the Age of Anxiety. Adults are not the only ones filled with anxiety; our youth are struggling too. We dove into ways to help young people navigate their anxiety and stress. The instructor also took time to help us manage our own stress and anxiety.
True beauty and growth always come in the in-between times. I met strangers who shared stories and experiences, and they became family. Parts of my heart are in Texas now. I have people I can call on for support and wisdom while managing this crazy ministry life, and I got to experience that because of the West Virginia Conference.
Thank you for investing in my ministry and the youth of tomorrow. Now it’s time to put it into practice!
*The Youth Ministry Network is the WVUMC youth ministry page for youth workers in the conference – paid, volunteer, and everyone in between. We welcome everyone to this group! If you’d like to join this supportive community, visit us on Facebook, answer a few questions about yourself, and then introduce yourself so we can say hi! We’re 75 members and growing!