Student ownership in your ministry

I can remember when I was in middle school desperately wanting to be done with being a teenager and hoping to someday be an adult with real responsibilities.  Fortunately I was able to find some outlets as a teenager working various jobs and volunteering in my youth ministry where I was challenged to take ownership.  For me this was exciting, finally getting to a point in life where I was taken somewhat seriously and was able to do something where other people depended on me.

I believe students today feel this same way.  Many of them are anxiously waiting for opportunities where they can be independent and carry out certain adult-like roles.  While this can be a good/positive thing, it can sometimes backfire if handed off too prematurely.

Recently we held a meeting with some of our various student teams where one of our leaders challenged the students to take ownership and iniating start within their teams.  It was cool to see the wheels turn as various students would come to me with ideas they wanted to do or come into our office on a monday ready to volunteer.  The words “student ownership” spoke their language and ignited a desire to step out and do something.  When we speak the language of students, we open doors for creativity and possibilities for them to lead in new and real ways.

Are you letting students in your ministry take ownership?