More Traits of Effective Student Pastors
5. Love for Students
Next, a magnetic personality is an asset in student ministry. But nothing trumps genuinely caring about and loving the students. This authentic love comes from carrying God’s burden for young people. While leadership drive propels the vision to reach more teens, a burden for students ensures that each one is seen as a person who matters. A soul who needs a shepherd.
6. Organizational Competence
Organization is critical. Leading a student ministry is like leading a church. A student pastor is the point person for casting vision, providing engaging teaching, worship, discipleship in small groups, and events. This is no small organizational feat. It includes considerable recruiting, training, and delegating of responsibility to many volunteers. Leading is a big job!
In addition to being organized, the ministry environment should be fun. But the primary focus is the transforming truth of God’s Word and subsequent life change.
7. Passion for God and Biblical Wisdom
Finally and most importantly, effective youth leaders depend on God. They realize that without God’s favor and blessing, no amount of activity makes an eternal difference. But with God, all things are possible and true life change takes place.
The best student leaders have an intimate relationship with Jesus, seeking his voice through prayer and Scripture. I’m very grateful to all student pastors who wholeheartedly dedicate their leadership to spiritually better the lives of teens. Their investment is truly a gift!
What other traits of effective student pastors do you recommend? Add your thoughts in the comments below!
