Part of our church’s vision for youth is that we would see interaction between different age groups, that is that we would be “intergenerational.” We don’t want to compartmentalize and isolate teens, but rather see them build relationships with our entire church family.
This year it has been a special joy to see our teens lead the drama (and we consider Eric a teen too) for our VBS. The gift they are giving the children of our church is tremendous. Our children are seeing the older church teach them by modeling the joy of Christ and of the gospel.
This doesn’t mean that we never have youth events. We do. There is a place for teens to hang out with teens. But we get really stoked when our teens model Christ for our children (or for any other age group for that matter).
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Notice in the below picture that my wife (lower right) is a pastor’s wife in action!
I was thinking this exact same thing during the drama today. What a blessing to have teens so excited to work within the church. Not only the drama team, but the game helpers and snack helpers. It is so great to have all the age groups working to serve the Lord through VBS!
Heidi, I’ve looked at Jer’s picture about 5 times today. Jamie and I were even talking about it tonight. It makes me smile.
That is so cool! And what a great backdrop! But I can’t find Jamie…
I’m going to send this to a friend. He and I work together in children’s ministry and he initiated multi-aged small groups for our kids over this summer, with the 4th graders being the leaders. I had never tried this before, but am SO glad he suggested it. What a blessing to see olders catching vision to serve youngers. That is the body.
Shannon, on the picture at the bottom of the post – – -Jamie is on the right side closer to the bottom than the top. She is in a yellow shirt and she is in action.
Shannon, you might have to click on the picture to enlarge it in order to actually see it.
I had the exact same thought last year when we conducted our Vacation Bible School. http://enjoyinghisgrace.wordpress.com/2011/06/17/opportunity/
I had a follow up the next day. Perhaps this will help you post tomorrow. http://enjoyinghisgrace.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/influence/
Steve
I found her right away.
It looked familiar from her days as a Youth Pastor’s wife.