Engage Them: They Will Come

Have your own tent revival. Have the church support a rental or purchase of a large outdoor tent to keep up for summer and fall festivals. If you have an auditorium, are you booking bands that espouse your faith? Churches across the nation are a beacon for new and established rock and folk acts. And many, including the Methodist’s church’s Upward League, offers spectacular team play at all age levels and they are open to anyone, not just church members, of the community. Guest speakers can be a lively addition to any event. But this isn’t grade school, and there’s no need to invite Mr. Narcotics officer out to the fray to explain the dangers of drug use. Invite a local musician (a young guitar player seems to always work well) to not just play some original music and explain the craft of songwriting, but also offer advice to those yearning to become teen idols. What about asking a professional skater in town to come and peak? A tennis shoe collector or graphic design artist? An award-winning journalist or editor? The possibilities are endless as long as you are willing to dream them up, are open to suggestions, and ask for ideas.

Share with your older groups that, as their high school years approach and end and they begin set their sights on a career or college life, they must always remember that both college and job market recruiters are looking especially for those who have leadership experience. And volunteer and leadership functions experienced in a youth worship function are a great way to enhance any young person’s new start into the world of adulthood. And they look really good on resumes.