Moms in Ministry

I hear it more and more.”I want my teenager to have a youth group, our parish doesn’t have one, but we want to get one, can you help!?!  I’m not that good with teens, they don’t respond when I speak, I’m out of touch, we need someone young here.” All common concerns of the middle aged woman who is trying her best to bring Christ to the youth of her church. 

I have been involved in a few parishes where the youth ministry program is mother-run, and let me tell you these programs are dynamite.  Why?  These parents (yes, dads too) care so much and invest great time and energy into the ministry.  Parents have the life experience that us youngsters don’t, giving them an advantage in dealing with the cards often dealt in youth ministry. 

At a youth night once teens were asked a question – Who has been Christ to you? – one girl in my small group said “this group of moms at my parish, I know that they are there for me whenever I need them, even if it’s in the middle of the night”  She could see the genuine love that these women had for her, and of all the people in her life she recognized them as people that has brought her closer to Christ.

What teens crave is a place where they can feel welcomed and safe, a place where they are affirmed and appreciated.  They seek truth, and if that is what your ministry is offering, you’re in good shape.  There is a huge myth that in order to be an effective youth minister, you have to be a twenty something hip and with it type person.  Not true, teens can sense sincerity, so be yourself and they will appreciate the real you. 

If you are one of these amazing people, a mom in ministry, don’t sell your self short.  Know that God doesn’t always choose those that are ready for what he calls them to, but as you go on to learn more and gain more experience, God will show you that yes, you can do this, Teens do appreciate you.  Yes you can be an effective youth minister. 

Thank you for stepping out of your comfort zone, God has big plans.  Don’t be afraid of what he may be calling you to.  Trust in Him.