Bethel Hill
United Methodist
What It's All About
YOUTH MINISTRY – WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT…
In a recent article (2005 Exemplary Youth Ministry) about a research project in the area of Youth Ministry, nine major points that give evidence of mature Christian faith in youth are:
- Seeks Spiritual Growth : alone and with others pursues questions, guidance and commitment through conversation, study of faith, reading the Bible, prayer, small groups, retreats
- Possess a Vital Faith : keenly aware of God present and active in one’s own life, the lives of others, and the live of the world
- Practices Faith : actively practices faith in Jesus Christ privately and publicly through regular attendance at worship, participation in ministry and leadership in a congregation
- Makes the Christian Faith a Way of Life : recognizes God’s "call and integrates one’s beliefs into the conversation, decisions and actions of daily life
- Lives a Life of Service : involved in activities caring for others and addressing injustice and immorality
- Reaches out to Others : reaches out to others who are different or in need through prayer, hospitality, conversation and support
- Exercises Moral Responsibility : lives with integrity utilizing faith in making considered moral decisions
- Speaks Publicly about Faith : speaks openly about Jesus Christ and God’s participation in one’s own life and the life of the world
- Possesses a Positive Spirit : reflects loving and hopeful attitudes toward others and life
On a scale of 1-10 where are you regarding the above points of spiritual maturity? What will it take for you to grow in your faith towards maturity? What will you do to help others grow in their faith? To discuss this further, please feel free to e-mail Elaine at anytime at elainesmithdce@yahoo.com