Your Attitude Is Infectious

johnny — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:51:03 +0000

Your attitude is infectious.

How Important Is Your Student Ministry Space?

johnny — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 19:33:21 +0000

I recently wrote an article for our church’s magazine about the importance of youth spaces. It can be very easy to write off flat screens, xbox’s, beanbag chairs and crazy wall art as frivolous purchases that will only hold the students’ attention for 10 minutes. It’s hard to explain to your business admin that new lights, projectors and a stage are important for the growth of your students and program (not just new, expensive toys).

The truth is nothing is necessary when it comes to the Body of Christ (except maybe people). But, if you have a space where you and your students meet, you need one particular ingredient: intentionality.

When deciding whether or not to spend the money to renovate our space, these are the three intentions I had:

Higher Attendance
Everybody likes cool stuff — especially students. New lights, state of the art projection and a fresh coat of paint make any environment appealing. And when you are proud of your space, you want to invite your friends to see it! The new room design will help us mount and use our new technology more efficiently, and present it in a way that is exciting for students! But, it doesn’t end there.

Deeper Connection To God
The new technology will help us present the gospel and engage students like never before! Creating a space that is inviting and stimulating helps to prepare our hearts to hear God’s voice. This new worship environment will set the tone for the students’ willingness and ability to meet God. Through this connection, we aim to help students gain a renewed understanding of worship and what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

Deeper Connection To The Church
Anytime you dedicate a space to a specific set of individuals, it gives them a sense of belonging. As a church, we want our students to know that we care about their spiritual development. With this refreshed space, our students will feel at home in our church. They will understand that we are committed to help them be a part of First Methodist Mansfield and, ultimately, part of the life-giving body of Christ. A deeper connection to the local church means a better chance that they will remain committed to their faith when they leave home.

Your intentions maybe different. The point is that you have them.

Your youth space is not…
where the thrift store brings the crap that nobody wants,
your storage closet,
the city dump (keep it clean!!),
a zoo, or
a prison.

Don’t treat like those things.

Work with your pastor and business office. Figure out what kind of money is available. Seek the help and advice of professionals. And most importantly, DREAM BIG!

I’m At Orange

johnny — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:12:11 +0000

I’m on my way to Atlanta, GA to attend The Orange Conference.

I’ve been excited about this conference for a few years now. I can’t wait to tell you all about it.

If you haven’t checked out what it means to be Orange, you should!

When Do You Cancel Youth?

johnny — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:07:37 +0000

Last night, I had to make a decision at 2pm to cancel our Sunday night programming. It was snow like crazy and the temperature was going to drop about 10 degrees by nightfall. This was a sure sign that the roads would be icy and dangerous (in Texas, we don’t drive in the ice and snow).

By the time 5 o’clock rolled around, the roads were fine! It was cold, but the precipitation had stopped. Looking back, we could’ve easily continued our programs with no worries.

How do you decide when to cancel programs, especially due to weather?

Does it break your heart like it breaks mine?

Johnny Brower » Youth Ministry

Your Attitude Is Infectious

How Important Is Your Student Ministry Space?

I’m At Orange

When Do You Cancel Youth?