In Part 1 of this two-part series we discussed three skills areas that all student ministers need to have or develop. There are two additional areas that are essential for effective student ministry.
Administration skills
Provide leadership for strategic planning and structures through which to implement the vision.
Work effectively (negotiate) with and through the church staff.
Enlist, equip, and empower adult volunteers to serve effectively in youth ministry.
Develop potential leadership in youth and adults.
Implement a balanced youth ministry calendar.
Biblical, theological, and pastoral Skills
Study and interpret Scripture using various study tools.
Communicate scriptural truth in large and/or small groups.
Embrace and articulate right doctrine as part of mission and strategy.
Appreciate the urgency and necessity of pastoral care in the church, especially in the youth ministry.
Grasp the mandate to balance discipleship and evangelism regardless of your personal giftedness
Where do you find training?
Experience tends to be the best teacher, but there are other places where you can get some help. Find a mentor to walk beside you. A mentor in youth ministry is probably another youth minister who has been in it longer than you have. That person can tell you of their experiences, advice, and ideas. He can also hold you accountable for your spiritual growth.
Your Baptist state convention is another good place to look for training. Many states have youth ministry training events (sometimes called conclaves) that are relatively low in cost. All of the Southern Baptist seminaries offer youth ministry classes.
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary offers short-term conferences sponsored by the Youth Ministry Institute. There are also a number of weekend workshops on specific youth ministry competencies as well as a two-week Youth Ministry Institute in January.
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (www.swbts.edu) offers a Youth Lab each April, which is a great way to receive quality youth ministry information and fellowship.
Internet resources are also available. SBCStudents.com is a portal to all SBC student ministry resources, trips, events, and support. Try it once and watch how fast you get to exactly what you are looking for.
The most important things to remember about the "right stuff" in youth ministry are: Love Jesus! Build relationships! Have fun!