4 Tips on Making Next Gen Ministry a Lifelong Career
Ever since I was 14, I knew I wanted to work with young people for the rest of my life. Though I was still learning to understand God’s voice, it was clear that this was my calling. At Oxon Hill High School in PG County, Maryland, I wrestled with the idea of becoming a child psychologist, sociologist, or elementary school teacher. This calling was affirmed when my first job at 15 was as a summer camp counselor, and I began volunteering as an assistant recreational league basketball coach, eventually becoming a head coach at 16.
My path became clearer when I accepted my call to ministry at 22 and soon after took on my first youth ministry assignment. I was certain that my life would be dedicated to working with young people in a way that aligned with God’s desire. I hoped that excelling in this work would lead to a full-time youth pastor position. Many mentors and friends were thriving in their full-time youth ministry roles, and I felt that perhaps one day I would join their ranks. However, I remained content with my bi-vocational life, trusting in God’s plan for me.
Twenty years later, I am still not a full-time youth minister. Instead, God has led me to a lifelong career in next-gen ministry while remaining multi-vocational. Today, I work full-time in diversity, equity, and inclusion for a non-profit and serve as the Minister to Youth and Families at the Historic Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, DC. Additionally, I have started my own business that supports national youth ministry organizations and youth ministers across the country.
This journey has taught me four key lessons:
Be Patient
Matthew 6:33 has been my guiding scripture. I never chased platforms, speaking opportunities, or positions, whether paid or volunteer. My passion was always for the on-the-ground work, finding joy in watching the lives of students transform. My dedication to the long haul, rather than seeking short-term affirmation, has allowed others to see my commitment. This attitude has been instrumental in my 20-plus years of hard work and dedication.
Be Adaptable
Next-gen ministry is constantly evolving. Even after two decades, I still attend conferences to hone my craft. Though some may see me as an expert, I recognize that the issues young people face and their faith journeys continue to change. We must adapt our approaches to stay relevant and effective. The methods of youth ministry from even a year ago may not be applicable today.
Network to Discover
I have always been a networker, not to find opportunities but to learn from others. From the beginning, I sought mentorship from seasoned youth ministers, observing their methods and learning from their mistakes. This practice has expanded beyond local connections to a national scale, allowing me to incorporate diverse insights into my work.
Align Your Passions with the Needs of Next-Generation Ministry
Over the years, I have become a resource hub for others, often being called a Youth Pastors’ Pastor. Initially, I shrugged off this title, but I realized that my most effective ministry was mentoring and coaching others in this space. God prepared me to embrace this role, allowing me to continue impacting youth ministry for the next 20 years or more. Trusting in God and my passion has shown me that it is possible to create a fulfilling path through entrepreneurial and creative means.
In conclusion, my journey in next-gen ministry has been one of patience, adaptability, networking, and aligning my passions with the needs of youth ministry. Trusting in God’s plan has led me to a place where I can continue to serve and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.
