With much help from those who’ve been doing this longer than me (thanks Michael and Sarah), our student ministry has created a 4-week experience that involves teens and parents learning and discussing important topics together. We offer this experience every two years so that every teenager has this opportunity. Though this is my third time to facilitate, it’s the first time I’ve been a participant because my oldest daughter is a 7th grader. As you might imagine, my perspective has changed. I thought I’d share some reflections thus far (We’ve completed two sessions).
First, one of the greatest values so far has been the relationship-building. We’re discovering more about other families as we discuss important topics. Last night my daughter heard not only my wife, but also three other parents and two teenagers her age talk about salvation, what it means to them, and how to receive it.
Related, it creates the opportunity for Julia to connect with other adults. This week she gets to interview someone she has identified as important to her faith journey. She looks up to this person as an example of faith. The coolest thing about this is that this person has no idea that she’s been this kind of influence on my daughter. Invaluable!
Second, it connects us parents on a deeper level as we discuss, not parenting strategies, but the core values and the most important things we want for our children with an older couple who serve as mentors for this series. I’m moved by this because for the first time in nearly 12 years of ministry I’m sitting with parents of teens as a peer rather than their youth minister. It’s been refreshing to listen to other parents ask questions I’ve been asking myself about my daughter.
Third, it’s creating space for Deana and I to talk openly and more intentionally with our daughter about salvation, faith, our stories, the Gospel and more. We’ve had homework each week that has been great. We’re reconnecting with her through this experience.
I’m sure there are more observations that will come in the next two weeks, but these few are significant. Connecting our teens to others who speak truth into their lives is important. Creating relationships that are spiritually rich is essential.
What are some intentional ways you connect your children or students to others in ways that are faith shaping?
