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Question for the Community: Starting A Campus Ministry

by Seth Bartlette
Thursday, September 20, 2012
All, Blog
2 comments

We’re counting on you to help us answer this question from a fellow youth-worker:

What are some practical ways to start a school campus ministry? I have never done it before nor seen it modeled, but there are so many lost students in the public schools that I feel it is a great opportunity to reach students. By the way, our schools are open for me to go in, so that won't be an issue.

Time to weigh in with your thoughts, YMG Team. Help John by commenting below. Thanks!

Tags:Question for the Community

2 comments

1
Rodney HufftyThursday, September 27, 2012 10:07 PM
Don't go in with a preconceived agenda. 1. Pray 2. Find a way to serve the school. -volunteer coach, bring lunch to the teachers, help build drama sets, video the freshman teams, etc. 3. Look at Partnering with a ministry that is an expert on doing campus ministry like Young Life, YFC, FCA. 3. Don't just go on the day you have your event. Kids needs to know you are concerned about them not just filling seat at your church. 4. Introduce yourself to the Principal and ask them what are the biggest problems they are facing in their school? What they wish adults in their community would do for the school? What do they need done that can't find anybody to do? Listen. 5. Meet as many teachers as you can, they know the students better than anyone. 6. Be kind, gracious, loving and humble, go in as a learner instead of an expert. 7. Under Promise and Over deliver.
2
Jimmy DoyleWednesday, October 10, 2012 9:29 AM
I am in an area that has some open schools and some closed schools. Our church happens to be across the street from one of the largest high schools in the state but is a closed school. My senior pastor let me know during the interview process that he'd be cool with me subbing at the school. I've found this to be a great way to see kids and meet new ones at a school I would never other wise be allowed into. Also, the extra cash is a nice treat :o) Whatever you can do to get on campus and be a blessing to staff is a HUGE plus. A student and I went around to high schools delivering Starbucks coffee jugs to admin offices just to say thanks for all they do for students. There is nothing quite as awkward as being on a high school campus for lunch or games where there are a ton of students who don't know you and could probably care less too (enter a flood of insecurities), but there is nothing as rewarding either!