Raising Youth That Keep the Faith

One of the current realities that dominates much of my thought life, and ministry energy, is the fact that the vast majority of kids raised in church are leaving it for good by age 20-22...many even earlier than that.

The questions I wrestle with are:
* What are the keys to effective and personally owned spiritual formation in teens?

* What is the primary goal of youth ministry in the local church?

* What is the disconnect for our young adults from the local church?

There are some great research and discussions taking place. A book I'm reading now is called, "Already Gone" which details extensive research on why young people are ditching church...it's really alarming.

Here are some thoughts I'm landing on to address these issues:

* Inter-generational Community: Our students need significant relationships with older adults who love them, care about their development, and invest in them.

* Self-feeders: The ability and desire to feed themselves spiritually through classic spiritual disciplines is essential to continual spiritual growth.

* Knowing God: Knowing God, hearing His voice and guidance in your life, and enjoying a growing intimacy with the Spirit are vital to sustained spiritual vitality.

* Called and Equipped: Knowing you are uniquely gifted by God and called into His mission on the earth are powerful realities that keep followers of Jesus in the game.

What thoughts do you have?