Resource Notebook
How to use this resource 2
Community
Evangelism Tool: UnderGrad Party 4
Gateway: UnderGrad Invitation to Weekend Worship Service 5
Friendship Evangelism Challenge 6
Friendship Evangelism Card 7
Crowd
Weekend Worship Service Message Outline 13
Back of the Weekend Worship Service Outline 14
Sample Letter to Crowd Students 14
Incoming Freshman Transition Flyer 15
Examples of Weekend Worship Service Series 16
Information Card 17
Follow Up Information: “Getting a Bible” 18
Follow Up Information: “Committing My Life to Christ” 19
Follow Up Information: “Baptism” 20
Congregation
Area Bible Study Curriculum: Student Workbook Sample 31
Area Bible Study Curriculum: Leader Notes 32
Committed
Discipleship Tools: RootWorks 38
Discipleship Tools: Student Accountability Group Card 39
Discipleship Tools: Student Accountability Group Covenant 40
Discipleship Tools: Sign Up Card 41
Core
Student Leadership Brochure and Application 48
Student Leadership Meeting Agenda 51
Core Reports 52
Testimony Tool Cover Letter 54
Testimony Tool 55
Volunteers
Volunteer Application Packet 62
Volunteer Application 68
Volunteer Staff Commitment Sheet 69
Planned Values 70
Weekend Worship Service Table Leader Ministry Description 73
Area Bible Study Ministry Descriptions 74
Ministry Team Leader Ministry Description 74
Table Leader M.I.N.I.S.T.R.Y. Tool 75
Ministry Ideas for the Time Conscious Volunteer 76
Resource Inventory 77
Area Bible Study Volunteer Feedback 78
Anonymous Volunteer Staff Survey 79
Fingerprinting Process 80
Family Ministry
Incoming Freshman Parents’ Orientation 104
High School Ministry Primary Programs 105
Special Events
Mexico Missions Trip Expectations 111
Summer Camp Expectations 112
Summer Camp Covenant 113
Vision and Leadership
Time Management 118
Saddleback’s Program Descriptions 119
Follow Up 121
Sample Training From a Staff Meeting 122
Encouragement Letter to Students Doing Friendship
Evangelism 8
Potential Community Outreach Brain Storm Ideas 9
Follow Up Information: “Joining the Church” – 21
Follow Up Information: “Getting Involved with a Ministry” 22
Follow Up Information: “Growing In My Faith” 23
Getting Students to Do Ministry 24
Youth Ministry Sex Survey 25
Youth Ministry Spirituality Survey 26
New Believer’s Packet 27
Get to Know You Flyer 29
Examples of Bible Study Curriculum Series 35
Letter to Area Bible Study Host Homes 36
Sample Letter to Encourage Committed Students 42
Bible Institute Sample 43
Digging Deeper: Committed Newsletter 45
S.H.A.P.E. Inventory: Cover Letter 56
S.H.A.P.E. Inventory 57
Ministry Team Leader Responsibilities (Greeting Team) 59
Ministry Team Descriptions 60
Sample Letter to Potential Adult Volunteer 81
Sample Rejection Letter 82
Sample Exit Letter 82
Volunteer of the Month Award 83
Volunteer Staff Sheet 84
Volunteer Expectations for Driving a Vehicle 85
Top 10 Myths About Being a Great Volunteer Youth Worker 86
Potential Volunteer Flyer 87
Volunteer Staff Meeting Agenda 88
Free Email Letter 89
Volunteer Training for Area Bible Study Small Groups 90
Volunteer Training for Ministry Team Leaders 100
Planning a Special Event 102
Monthly Parents Letter 108
Letter to Parents about a Family Friendly Ministry 109
Summer Camp Devotional Booklet Cover Letter 114
Summer Camp Devotional Booklet Sample Page 115
Summer Camp Follow Up Letter 116
Weekend Worship Service Overview 123
Area Bible Study Overview 124
Life Development Intern Program 125
How To Use This Resource
This notebook contains hundreds of ideas from the youth ministry at Saddleback Church. We were going to include the thousands of ideas that didn’t work, but we didn’t want to create a resource of encyclopedic proportions.
This notebook contains the miscellaneous “stuff” of our ministry--forms, fliers, promotional material, meeting itineraries, letters to parents, volunteer applications, student leadership commitments, etc. We’ve put this together because we’re asked every day by youth workers for some of the contents. We hope it will be a valuable resource for your ministry. We want to give you our “stuff” so you don’t need to create everything from scratch. God has called us to be effective shepherds of his sheep . . . he hasn’t called us to be original. “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything of which one can say, ‘Look! This is something new?’ It was here already, long go; it was here before our time.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9-10)
Take these ideas and run! Feel free to copy to your heart’s delight; our only request is that you don’t publish this material or plagiarize it for profit. Use this material “as is” or better yet, improve upon these ideas—then let us see your improvements so we can use it ourselves! It’s our hope that the ideas contained in this notebook will serve as a springboard for your creativity.
The Organization of this Resource Notebook
To make this notebook as user-friendly as possible, we’ve organized this resource beginning with the 5 circles of commitment and finishing up with the major transcendent elements of our ministry. Because the circles define levels of commitment, they describe what already exists then illustrate the goal of where we want students to be. If you’re familiar with the circles, then the following is going to be review (If not, see pages 83-102 in Purpose Driven Youth Ministry):
The Community Student
A Community student is any non-churched teenager who lives within a realistic driving distance to our church. Spiritually, this student is committed to living apart from Jesus.
The Crowd Student
A Crowd student is anyone who attends one of our Weekend Worship Services. These students make up our regular attendees and are both Christians and non-Christians. Spiritually, this student is committed to hearing about Jesus.
The Congregation Student
A Congregation student is one who gets involved in our mid-week area Bible study small groups. Spiritually, this student is committed to a personal relationship with Jesus and other believers.
The Committed Student
A Committed student is growing through developing habits (spiritual disciplines) such as personal Bible study, prayer, accountability with another believer, scripture memorization, and giving. This student is committed to growing on his or her own in Jesus.
The Core Student
The Core student is the committed student who has discovered his or her giftedness, is serving in a ministry, and shows an understanding and expression of evangelism. This student is committed to serving because of Jesus and sharing the good news.
The last five sections of this resource are: Volunteers, Intern Program, Family Ministry, Special Events, and Vision and Leadership. We call these elements “transcendent” because they cross the entire spectrum of our students’ commitments. For example, volunteers are involved at every level (from the Community to the Core) in the lives of all our students.
At the beginning of most of these resources, you’ll find the graphic of an eye next to the words, “How we used this.” The material that follows is a short explanation of how we implemented that particular tool in our ministry. We have tried to include this information on those resources that weren’t necessarily self-explanatory.
One final note: many of these resources in this notebook are found here as text only. We decided to remove most of the formatting and layout to save space.
Blessings,
Doug Fields
resources for the
COMMUNITY
Evangelism Tool: UnderGrad Party
How We Used This. . .
This is a tool we gave to our regular students at the Weekend Worship Service to challenge them before the UnderGrad Party.
How to use The UnderGrad Party to Reach Your Friends
(in order of difficulty--but everyone can do #1)
1. After They Attend The Party, Invite Them To Join You For A Weekend Worship Service
One of the most common reasons your friends don’t come to church is that they don’t know what to expect. Now that they’ve been to the Under-Grad party it will be easier to get them to Sunday morning.
[Help relieve some of their fears by explaining what happens on Sunday morning--humor, video, drama, band, message, etc.
Assure them they won’t have to dress up, read out loud, sing solos, or share their worst sin.]
2. Tell Your Friends Why You Attend Saddleback
Most people think their friends will give them a “hard time” for going to church. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Most people respect others that are trying to find answers to life -- even when the answers have to do with God.
3. Tell Your Friends Why You’re A Christian
If you’re a Christian, you’ve made the most important decision of your life to give your life to God and have a personal relationship with Him. We share all types of decisions with our friends, but we usually fear their response to our faith. We become afraid we’ll be labeled a “Jesus freak”. Here’s an important truth; if your friendships have any degree of depth they will not only accept your faith but honor your commitments. Sharing your faith wouldn’t jeopardize true friendships.
4. Share With Your Friends How They Can Become A Christian
If you have never done this before, we’d be thrilled to share with you some very specific ways you can communicate God’s plan for eternal life. We’ll talk you through it, give you some resources to use, and support you with prayer and encouragement. For those of you that have done this before, we encourage you to continue to share with your friends the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.
My Invitation List:
1. ________________________________________
2. ________________________________________
3. ________________________________________
4. ________________________________________
5. ________________________________________
6. ________________________________________
7. ________________________________________
8. ________________________________________
9. ________________________________________
10. ________________________________________
Gateway: UnderGrad Invitation to Weekend Worship Service
How We Used This. . .
This is a flyer we handed out to students after our evangelistic program, the UnderGrad Party. This “gateway promotion” directed community students to take the next step and visit the Weekend Worship Service.
Friendship Evangelism Challenge
How We Used This. . .
One way we promoted the Friendship Evangelism Challenge was to put the following material on the back of students’ small group study guide. We encouraged our small group leaders to walk their students though the challenge.
FRIENDSHIP EVANGELISM
CHALLENGE
Evangelism is tough work! Most Christians struggle with being evangelistic. We have created the FRIENDSHIP EVANGELISM CHALLENGE to help you share the Good News with others.
First: Make a list of five of your friends you’d like to see become a Christian. Next, begin praying for your friends; ask God to provide opportunities for you to share with them about your faith.
Below are five steps, the first is easiest—anyone can do it. Begin to work through all five at your own pace! Don’t feel like you need to do all five in a week, the important thing is that you set some goals and make progress!
Step 1: Tell your friend you’re a Christian
Step 2: Invite your friend to an appropriate program
Step 3: Tell your friend why you’re a Christian
Step 4: Tell your friend how you became a Christian
Step 5: Ask your friend if he or she would like to become a Christian
If you decide to take the Friendship Evangelism Challenge, we want to know about it so we can pray for you. Sign up at the information table in the back of the High School room at one of the Weekend Services.
Friendship Evangelism Card
How We Used This. . .
When students commit to friendship evangelism, we give them this card to help them fulfill their commitment.
Encouragement Letter to Students Doing Friendship Evangelism
Greetings to all of you out there in the Friendship Evangelism World.
I just wanted to drop you a letter to say hello and let you know how awesome you are. I think that it is great that you have a heart for your lost friends and that you really care about where they will spend eternity. The cool thing about sharing our faith is that we don’t have to have all the answers. God never said to be a walking Bible person with the answers to everything. All we have to do is be willing to be used by God and share what we know, share what has happened in our lives. Our own experiences are what is most powerful to our friends because we already have credibility. Step 3 in the Friendship Evangelism process is to tell your friends why you’re a Christian--this is your testimony. All of us have a testimony no matter if you were raised in the church or you just became a Christian. Your testimony is awesome because your life has been changed because of Christ and that is the important part. Enclosed is a ‘Testimony Tool’ that will help you write out your testimony so you will be able to share with others why you’re a Christian.
Hopefully you have already filled out a Friendship Evangelism card, and have been prayin. I honestly believe that if we pray God will open up opportunities for us to share with our friends. You are all awesome and I would love to hear any stories you have of how God has opened up opportunities for you to share with your friends. Also bring your friends to the Weekend Services (Sat. @ 6:30 p.m. or Sun. @ 9:45 or 11:30 a.m.). That’s probably one of the best places for them to see that God isn’t boring, and church can be fun. When you bring your friends to church, introduce them to us so we can meet them. I challenge you to fill out the card, if you haven’t, and begin to pray for your friends and invite them to church.
You are all in my prayers,
Aaron Gutridge
Potential Community Outreach Brainstorm Ideas
1. Alternative Events For Community Students
Overtime
These events take place on Friday nights after local football games from 9pm to midnight. The evening includes dancing, bands, and pizza.
Dance Club
On a weekly basis students are looking for things to do with their weekend evenings. We could facilitate a weekly dance club during the summer months and sporadically during the school year. This would be the only place in the city where such an event could take place. The youth center would be used to house the dances.
Skateboard Tournament & Drug Free Awards Party
This event would allow students to compete in skateboarding in a safe environment. We would have professional skaters conduct the awards ceremony and give testimony to their life without drugs and alcohol.
Almost Anything Goes Game Night
We would pack the facility for an evening of fun and games that would be geared as outrageous and recreational rather than competitive.
Summer Day Camps
One-week sessions designed to provide families with a safe place for their kids. Each week could serve a different faction and/or theme (i.e. basketball camp, drama camp, etc.). Each week would include recreation, social opportunities, field trips, spiritual input, skill specialization, and entertaining programs.
Talent Shows
We would work with schools to have a "best of" talent show featuring the student performers from each of the schools.
Super-Star competition
We would invite the best student athletes from community schools and put them through a superstars-type event to test their strength and coordination.
Dating Game
Similar to the television show and designed to bring students from all parts of the community together for laughter, socialization, and entertainment.
Student Comedy Night
We will bring the best comedians together from each high school and set up an atmosphere where they will compete as best student comic.
2. Events For “Popular Nights”
Junior High Grad Night
This evening is designed especially for the graduating eighth grade student. The format would be similar to a huge family graduation party. There is nothing like this in the community.
UnderGrad Night (Freshman-Juniors)
An evening designed especially for all those students that aren't graduating. Many of the local schools have programs designed for the seniors, but none have parties for the underclass students. These students are out of school and ready to party. We will ensure a safe environment. There is nothing like this in the community and would meet a great need.
After-Prom alternatives
These programs would be a great alternative for students and schools that are participating in proms. Most after-prom activities include drinking and staying in hotel rooms. These events would include music, food, videos, and friends.
Post Dance alternatives
If the after-prom alternatives work well, we will continue this program with the other dances throughout the school year.
Drug Free Holidays
Throughout the year we will have several one-time events that will include a large group of kids during a vulnerable time to partying and drug use. Examples of these events would include:
· Fourth of July Blowout
· Presidents’ Day Dance
· New Year’s Party
· Halloween/Haunted House
3. Parent's Events
Workshops
These workshops will be educational seminars taught by professionals to better equip parents towards the incredible task of being a parent with today's adolescents.
· Encouraging My Child Athlete
· Single Parents Forum
· Kids Being Forced To Grow Too Old Too Soon
· Teaching Sexual Values To Your Children
· Raising Capable Children
· Helping Children Overcome Peer Pressure
· Building Self-Esteem In Children
· Drug-Proofing your Kids
· Recognizing & Dealing With Eating Disorders
Events
In addition to workshops we would plan different ways in which parents could spend time with their kids in a healthy and growing environment.
· Father/Son Monday Night Football
· Mother/Daughter Banquet
· Father/Son Sports Banquet
· World's Largest Family Picnic
4. Student Education
Workshops
Each student seminar will be constructed to meet the needs of the student and taught in a manner that will be interesting and practical to today's students.
· Divorce Recovery
· Creative Dating
· Star-Student Study Skills
· Baby-sitting Skills Clinic
· Preparing For College Life
· Raising Your Parents Without Losing Your Mind
· Preparing Yourself for the Big Job
· Love, Sex & Dating
· How To Raise Money This Summer
The Arts
On a regular basis we will have involvement-oriented workshops that will allow students to learn and to express their giftedness through some of the following means:
· Drama
· Guitar
· Art
· Dance
· Band
5. Sporting Program
On a monthly basis we would like to have a program or sporting event that appeals to the athlete or the sports enthusiast.
Sports Tournaments
· Basketball
· Volleyball
· Roller hockey
· Wiffleball
Cheerleading seminar with Collegiate Cheerleaders
A few months prior to high school and junior high cheerleader try-outs, we could sponsor cheerleading clinics for these students. These "professional" cheerleaders and dancers will instruct and encourage teenage participants.
Clinics
We will use the professional athletes that are available and in our community to conduct specialized clinics for interested students. (i.e. baseball, football, etc.)
6. AFTER SCHOOL 3-5PM PROGRAMS
The three-to-five program will meet some of the most basic family needs. For two-income families this will provide an opportunity for their children to be involved in a safe and loving environment during important developmental hours. Drug abuse, crime, delinquent behavior and rebellion often parallel the amount of unrestricted free time young people are given.
During this time, students will have an opportunity to hang-out at the youth center as well as participate in a variety of classes including:
· Aerobics
· Weightlifting
· Art
· Karate
· Computer training
· Tutoring
· Peer counseling
7. RADIO AND CABLE TV SHOW
The purpose for these shows would be student entertainment with a value message. The show will use students from within our community as the stars. It's intended for the show to generate a following of students that will be involved in the creation and publicity of the show.
8. PEER COUNSELING
The peer-counseling program will give any junior high or high school student the opportunity to develop peer counseling and leadership skills in order to effectively help their friends. This program will lay a life-long basic counseling and leadership goals.
Included in this program will be training on:
· Personal growth and development
· Conflict management
· Effective listening
· Problem solving
· Crisis intervention
· Self-esteem building
· Dealing with suicidal friends
We would use professionals to provide on-going psychological evaluation of the program. It is a program that is needed in our community. Studies are showing that the most effective prevention tool available to teenagers is peer influence.
9. EDUCATIONAL TRANING
· Excellence in public education
· Understanding the make-up of the 90's adolescent
· Teaching without speaking--use of effective communication
· Building character in the classroom
· Motivation in the classroom
· Working with rude, obnoxious, & undisciplined
resources for the
CROWD
Weekend Worship Service Message Outline
How We Used This. . .
Every week, we provide all of our students with outlines of the message so they can follow along with the teaching. All of our weekend messages are available in print form or in Super Series format through Simply Youth Ministry (1-866-9-SIMPLY or www.simplyyouthministry.com).
How To Keep From Shrinking
Doug Fields
Essentials For A New Year
“There are three things that will endure--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love.” 1 Cor. 13:13 (NLT)
Faith is our ________________
Hope is our ________________
Love is our ________________
“Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.” Hebrews 10:36(NLT)
A Continual Growth Plan
“We have around us many people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.” Hebrews 12:1-2a (NCV)
1. FIND ____________________________
“We have around us many people whose lives tell us what faith means...”
Faith:
Hope:
Love:
2. REMOVE ____________________________
...We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back...
Obstacle #1:
Obstacle #2:
3. FOCUS ____________________________
... We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus...
Bible (time in God’s Word)
Prayer (time with God)
Accountability (time with another believer)
4. DON’T ____________________________
....So let us run the race that is before us and never give up...
Spiritual growth comes from a lot of little________________
Spiritual growth is ________________
Back of the Weekend Worship Service Outline
How We Used This. . .
This is one of the ways we communicate the purposes. We put this on the back of the Weekend outlines to help students see the big picture of our ministry.
Sample Letter to Crowd Students
Greetings!
I want you to know that there is a “method to the madness” that you’re a part of within this high school ministry. The baseball diamond below gives you a “big picture” of our high school ministry. This diamond allows us a way to measure growth and maturity. You can see where you fit in our programs, what’s ahead of you, and what you can do to help others along the process. I want to do whatever I can to help you grow. You are an important person in our ministry and I’m thrilled you’re here today.
God loves you and so do I,
Doug Fields
High School Pastor & former little league umpire
[We would include the baseball diamond with numbers and the names of the programs with this letter]
Incoming Freshman Transition Flyer
How We Used This. . .
This is a flyer we mailed to the incoming Freshman to invite them to our ministry.
Top 10 Reasons To Get Excited
About Going To The High School
Ministry
10) The FRESHMAN FRENZY is only for incoming 9th graders (this Friday night 6:30pm-midnight--room 400--$10.00--Pizza/bowling/fun-times.)
9) No one will ever ask you again, “So are you in 7th or 8th grade?”
8) Over half the people you’ll be around have their own driver’s license so you can “bum” a ride and never be tempted to steal your parent’s car and drive it around the church parking lot.
7) Kimbo’s beard can be found on Habib’s head.
6) The first Wednesday night program is June 29th.
5) Doug & Jeff are better at Twister than Kurt & Joe.
4) You’ll have three service times to choose from: Sat @ 5:00, Sun @ 8:45 or 11:00.
3) Captain Ron will be replaced by Captain Fantastic.
2) Because the high school student band is the best in the world.
1) Donuts, Donuts, Donuts.
Examples of Weekend Worship Service Series
Taming The Belching Dragon
1) Lying
2) Gossip
3) Encouragement
How To Rearrange The World
1) Ethos-Do people trust me?
2) Pathos-Do I love people?
3) Logos-Do I know what I’m talking about?
How To Be A Wiseguy/Gal (Proverbs)
1) Fear of the Lord
2) Discipline
3) Discernment/Understanding
4) Wise Behavior
E.V.I.L. or L.I.V.E.
1) Satan isn’t a cartoon character.
2) Demon possession--where is God?
3) God is real!
What’s All The Talk About Sex?
1) What’s the big deal anyway?
2) What’s the Bible say about sex?
3) How far is too far?
4) When sex goes wrong (sexual abuse)
Jesus’ Greatest Hits
1) Pool of Bethesda (John 5)
2) Women caught in adultery (John 8)
3) Fruit and the vine (John 15)
4) Women healed of bleeding (Mark 5)
Information Card
How We Used This. . .
We have all of our visitors to the weekend worship service fill out this information card.
Follow Up Information: “Getting a Bible”
How We Used This. . .
The following few pages contain the material (without layout) we mail to students based upon their response filled out on the information card.
Getting A Bible
One of our greatest desires is for you to be hooked on reading the Bible, God’s Love-letter. Here are a few ideas to help you on your way:
1. Where can I get a Bible?
At the Weekend Services we have available (we sell them at the same price we buy them, but if you don’t have the money, don’t let that stop you . . . we’ll get a Bible in your hands) two great Bibles: the Message and the One Minute Bible for students. THE MESSAGE is a contemporary translation of the New Testament. The ONE MINUTE BIBLE was put together by Doug and is a great way to get into the habit of reading the Bible. The One Minute Bible has 365 one minute portions of the Bible with an application for each day. All you have to do is read one minute a day. If you miss three days, it only takes four minutes to be caught up! The Bibles are in the back of the room, tell somebody and we will get one to you. Also, you can always go to a Christian bookstore and buy a Bible, and if you do that you’ll need to know . . .
2. What kinds of Bibles are there?
Any Bible written in English has been translated from the languages of the original writers (Hebrew and Greek). Some English translations are easier to read than others. The following is a list of common translations listed (in our opinion) in the order of their difficulty to read: King James Version (KJV); Revised Standard Version (RSV); New American Standard Bible (NASB); New International Version (NIV); New Century Version (NCV); New Living Translation (NLT). Once you have a Bible, you’ll want to know . . .
3. Where do I start reading?
A lot of people try to read their Bible from cover to cover. Few make it all the way through. One reason this is difficult is because the books of the Bible are not arranged so that one book always leads directly to the next. Trust us on this one; upon further study, you’ll discover what we mean.
If you want to get a good overview, start by reading the gospel of John (New Testament) and then Genesis (Old Testament). By reading these two books, you get an overview of the life of Jesus and the big picture of God’s creation and our human condition.
If you have any questions about getting a Bible, or anything else, call Matt McGill at the number listed below.
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Follow Up Information: “Committing My Life to Christ”
You wanted information on . . .
How To Become A Christian
. . . and here it is!!
We’re thrilled you’ve asked about the most important decision a person could ever make!!
Because this is so important, someone will give you a call to answer any specific questions you might have. Here are some basics to get you started in thinking about making a life changing decision for Jesus Christ:
1. God created us because He LOVES us and wants us to ENJOY a personal relationship with him.
"Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ . . . because of His love, God had already decided that through Jesus Christ he would make us His children - this was God's pleasure and purpose." Ephesians 1:4-5
2. When we KNOW and LOVE God, and LIVE according to God’s purpose for our lives, it produces tremendous benefits in our lives.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
3. HOWEVER, there is a problem!
You already know what that problem is: no one is perfect! And the Bible calls that imperfection “sin.” Sin means we are separated from God. Imperfection results in a consequence, and that consequence is eternal separation from God.
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23
4. God is perfect and we are imperfect.
The only way for us to enjoy a relationship is for us to be perfect ourselves--but nobody is perfect!
5. HOWEVER, God came to earth as Jesus to lead a perfect life and to PAY the price of OUR imperfection!
Why did God do this? Why did God send His son to die in our place? Because He loves us so much He did EVERYTHING to restore the relationship with imperfect people. Jesus freely offers this gift through faith in Him.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
6. All we have to do is accept Jesus’ free gift of salvation, accepting Him as Lord of our life.
“This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” Romans 2:22
Here is a sample prayer to accept Jesus:
"Dear Jesus, thank you for making me and loving me, even when I've ignored you and gone my own way. I realize I need you in my life and I'm sorry for my sins. I ask you to forgive me. Thank you for dying on the cross for me. Please help me to understand it more. As much as I know how, I want to follow you from now on. Please come into my life and make me a new person inside. I accept your gift of salvation. Please help me to grow now as a Christian."
Have you said these things to God?
IF YOU BELIEVE, YOU BELONG!
If you don’t feel like talking, don’t sweat it! The person who does call you won’t force you to talk about anything with which you are not comfortable. There’s no pressure!
If you do decide to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life, we urge you to tell somebody who is a believer!! Give us a call. We would love to answer any questions, offer encouragement, and share in the excitement of your new life!
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Follow Up Information: “Baptism”
Getting Baptized
1. What is baptism?
Baptism is the act of a BELIEVING Christian who wants to publicly confess his or her personal commitment to Jesus Christ. It is the symbolic WASHING AWAY of one’s old, sinful past and the RISING again to LIFE, God’s way. The act of baptism can be defined as an outward expression of an inward decision.
2. What does baptism mean?
Baptism illustrates Jesus’ BURIAL and RESURRECTION.
“Christ died for our sins ... He was buried ... and He rose again.” 1 Cor. 15: 3-4
Baptism illustrates NEW LIFE as a Christian.
“By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may live a NEW LIFE.” Rom. 6:4
Baptism does not make you a Christian. It is a demonstration that you already believe. It is important to understand that baptism does not “save” you. You are “saved” only by your faith in Jesus.
3. Why do we get baptized?
To follow the example set by CHRIST & because Christ COMMANDED it.
“. . . Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Mark 1: 9
“Jesus said, Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit...” Matt. 28:19-20
4. When is a good time to get baptized?
As soon as you BELIEVE! THERE IS NO REASON TO DELAY. As soon as you have decided to trust Christ with your life, you can and should be baptized. If you’re waiting until you’re perfect, you’ll never be ready.
“Those who believe ... were baptized ... that day!” Acts 8:35-38
Call the office, (949) 609-8000, to find out when our next baptism is.
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Follow Up Information: “Joining the Church”
You wanted information on . . .
Joining The Church
. . . and here it is!!
At Saddleback Church, we believe that the Church is a family, and God expects all believers to be a part of his family. A believer without a Church family is an orphan.
". . . You are a member of God's very own family . . . and you belong in God's household with every other Christian." Ephesians 2:19
There are four requirements to be a member at Saddleback Church:
1. Have you committed your life to Jesus Christ and trusted Him for salvation?
2. Have you been baptized by immersion (under water) after you have committed your life to Christ?
3. Have you completed Class 101?
4. Do you desire to abide by the Saddleback Membership Commitment?
Where are you at? Have you done all of these things? What can we do to help you become a member of Saddleback Church? Do you have any questions about accepting Jesus, baptism, bronze class 101, or the membership commitment? Give us a call, we would love to do what it takes to help get you involved.
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Follow Up Information: “Getting Involved with a Ministry”
Getting Involved in a Ministry
“Why should I be in MINISTRY?”
Everyone can do MINISTRY. It is our belief that if you get involved and serve in MINISTRY now you will develop the habit and serve forever! We want you to find the JOY of participating in a MINISTRY. So, participate TODAY instead of sitting back and waiting until tomorrow! We believe your serving can make a difference in this world and in our church.
Check It Out!
We want to help you discover your gifts and talents and to express them by getting involved. We have many different ministry teams for you to check out. We want to help you discover the ministry God has designed you for.
“How Can I Get Involved In A Ministry”
It’s so easy ... fill out a MINISTRY CARD at the weekend service or call Amanda Korte at the phone number listed below.
Serving is where it’s at!
Here is a list of our ministry teams:
· Art/Design
· Audio
· Babysitting
· Band
· Care Calling
· Children’s Sunday School Leader
· Drama
· Freshman Transition
· Greeting/Table Leader/Host
· “Fishsticks”
· Meals For Needy/ Jackets For Jesus /World Shoe Relief
· Jr. High
· Mountain Bike
· Office Work
· Photography
· Prayer/ Encouragement
· Choir
· Surf/ Bodyboard
· Video
· Setup/ Cleanup
· Seniors Need Love
Would you like to serve in your community by visiting an old folks home? Seniors need love! There are lots of senior citizens that don’t have people to visit them...would YOU like to visit them?
If you don’t see a ministry that fits for you, we’ll help you start one.
If you have any questions or if there is anything we can do to help you do ministry, call Amanda.
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Follow Up Information: “Growing In My Faith”
You wanted information on . . .
Growing in Your Faith
. . . and here it is!!
We’re thrilled you’re interested in growing in your faith. Our ministry exists to help students like you move toward spiritual maturity. Maturing in your faith isn’t easy--but few things worthwhile in life are easy.
One of the best ways to grow is to develop some spiritual habits like: spending quiet time with God, having accountability with another believer, memorizing the Bible, being involved with the church body, tithing, and studying the Bible.
We have created an acronym to help you remember these habits:
Hang time with God
(have an accountable relationship with another believer)
Accountability with another believer
(have a consistent time with God through prayer and Bible reading)
Bible memorization
(have key scriptures memorized)
Involvement with the church body
(be involved with the church body through attendance or serving)
Tithing commitment
(practice the discipline of financial giving)
Study Scripture
(know how to study the scriptures)
We haven’t stopped at just identifying some habits for you to develop, but we have also created some free tools to help you:
Hang time with God………………………………………………………….……………….Quiet Time Journal
Accountability with another believer………………………………………….…………………..SAG Five
Bible memorization…………………………………………………………..…………………Hidden Treasures
Involvement with the church body……………………………………………………………Go to Church!
Tithing commitment……………………………….…………………………………………..Bank of Blessings
Study Scripture……………………………………………………….…………………………………RootWorks
You can get any of these tools in the back of the high school room at any of the Weekend Worship Services. Don’t feel like you need to take all of them; just take the one that seems the most interesting to you. Start out slow, work at your own pace. Remember: you’re developing habits that will last a lifetime.
If you have any questions, or if there’s anything we can do to help you grow, please call Matt.
Praying for your growth!
High School Ministry Staff
Getting Students to Do Ministry
How We Used This. . .
We put this promotion piece in our bulletin at the Weekend Worship Service to help get our students involved in a ministry team.
1 18 people
can GIVE their TIME
immediately
5 people for Weekend Worship Service production team
10 people to help in the office after school
8 people to make “care” calls
5 people who can help with video production
3 vocalists to help with leading worship at a Weekend Worship Service
4 writers for a student newsletter
1 photographer for a Student Newsletter
3 people to run PowerPoint each service
10 people to do internet research and graphics design
4 artists for set design, layout, & various art projects
3 people to help with volunteer appreciation
1 person to oversee the World Shoe Relief
3 people to help with mission projects
20 people to be greeters at the Weekend Worship Service
3 people to help Doug prepare his weekend messages
8 people to commit to the drama team
3 people to volunteer baby sit at our staff meetings once a month
20 people to help with follow up for Area Bible Studies
4 people to help plan monthly special events
Each of these areas are going to require different time commitments. Let us know your area of interest and we will work around your availability and let you know the time needed.
Name:__________________________________ Phone:______________________
Circle your area of interest and leave in the offering box
Youth Ministry Sex Survey
How We Used This. . .
The following resource is the text (without layout) from a sex survey we had our students take. We used some of the results and answers in our teaching time.
Sex Survey
Please take this survey seriously and be honest in your answers. Your answers will be completely anonymous. No one will know who you are. Your answers will help me get a clear picture of where our group is sexually. Thank you for taking the time to do this survey.
Doug Fields
High School Pastor and Sexologist
Have you ever been in love? Yes No
Have you ever “gone out” with someone? Yes No
Have you ever gone on a group date? Yes No
Have you ever gone on a “one on one” date? Yes No
Have you ever kissed someone romantically? Yes No
Have you ever gone too far sexually? Yes No
If YES, did you go too far because the other person pressured you? Yes No
Did you later regret that you had gone as far as you did? Yes No
Do your parents have rules about how old you must be to date? Yes No
Have you talked AT LENGTH with your parents about sex? Yes No
Would you feel free to ask your parents anything about sex? Yes No
Have you ever had a sexual encounter with someone of the same sex? Yes No
Which option best describes your opinion about sex before marriage?
· sex is okay if I am really in love
· sex is no big deal
· sex is a very serious occasion
· sex is wrong
How far have you gone physically?
hugging---kissing---french kissing---making out---light petting---heavy petting---oral sex---intercourse
How far do you think a person should go before marriage?
hugging---kissing---french kissing---making out---light petting---heavy petting---oral sex---intercourse
What do you think is the most important reason not to have sex before marriage?
· I might get pregnant OR I might get someone pregnant
· I might get AIDS or some other disease
· It could ruin my reputation
· I want to save myself for my spouse
· The Bible says it is wrong
Where have you learned the most about sex?
· Friends
· TV, movies, magazines
· School classes
· Parents
· The Bible and Church
· Older brothers and sisters
Youth Ministry Spirituality Survey
How We Used This. . .
The following resource is the text (without layout) from a spirituality survey we had our students take. We used this survey to get a feel of where our students were in their faith.
Spiritual Survey
Name:
Phone:
Chose one of the following:
r I am already a Christian
when:
r I became a Christian today for the first time.
r I have questions I want answered before I become a Christian. (Write questions on back.)
Chose one of the following:
r I’m moving away from God
r I’m stagnant in my faith
r I’m growing, but very slowly
r I’m growing
r I’m on fire; I grow every day
One area where I really need to grow is:
New Believer’s Packet
How We Used This. . .
Mailed to students that have recently made a commitment to Christ.
New Believer’s Packet Cover Letter
Congratulations!
There’s a good chance that you’re reading this letter because you have recently made a decision to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of your life. This is exciting and we want to do everything possible to help you grow and explore the new Christian life you have just started.
Are you ready?
Your life has just reached a new level. You have taken the first step to your ultimate fulfillment . . . God has a wonderful plan custom tailored just for you. Are you ready to grow in ways you’ve never imagined? Are you ready for the Creator of the universe to work through you? Are you ready to experience a peace and joy that your past life could never offer? Are you ready?
Take the Next Step.
We’re thrilled to help you grow closer to God. We have created this packet to help you begin the first steps in your faith. There’s a lot of stuff in here, but here is a quick look at what is inside:
1. How to Become a Christian
This is a quick snapshot of God’s plan for us.
2. New Believer’s Journal
This is a tool to help you reflect upon your decision to accept Jesus and become a Christian.
3. Getting Baptized
Now that you’re a believer, it’s time to get baptized--there’s no reason to wait.
4. Joining the Church
Every Christian without a church family is an orphan. We would love for you to be a part of our church family, and this information will tell you how.
We urge you to read through the material in this packet. We are in the process of putting together a new believers’ Bible study. When it is complete, we will make every effort to contact you with the details. If there is anything we can do, please call--we’d love to hear from you.
Praying for your growth,
High School Ministry Staff
How to Become a Christian
See page 19 for this resource.
New Believer’s Journal
Congratulations!
If you’re reading this, then you have probably recently made a decision to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life. That’s exciting, and we’re committed to your spiritual growth. If you ever have any questions, or just want to talk about some of your ideas, then feel free to call us.
This New Believer’s Journal is a tool designed to help you reflect upon your decision to accept Jesus as Lord of your life. A journal isn’t a diary: you don’t write about WHAT you did today, but reflect upon WHO you are.
The Bible teaches that becoming a believer should be a deliberate act, not a quick decision that fades slowly into a broken commitment. We want your decision to have some depth, and those roots will grow when you reflect on your experience.
Work through these questions slowly; there’s no race and you don’t have to finish them all at one time. Don’t let these questions limit you. They are meant to work as a spring board for your thoughts. If you run out of room, then get another notebook. If you want to write about something that has nothing to do with one of the questions, then do so! This is your journal, your words are priceless.
Once you finish this journal, we encourage you to get a blank notebook so you can continue to journal. You will be amazed at how much God will teach you in just ONE day.
Praying for your Growth,
High School Ministry Staff
Journal Questions
Why have you decided to make Jesus Lord and Savior of your life? What factors went into your decision?
What are the names of the people who were most influential in your decision?
What was attractive about the people you listed on page three? What are some qualities you respect or admire about those people?
How would you describe your relationship with God right now?
Write down five words to describe God and why you chose those words.
What do you think are some good things to do to deepen your relationship with God? (If you’re stuck: what would you do to deepen your relationship to a new friend?)
Why do you think God wants you in his family?
Who are three Christians you respect and whom you could talk to about your new faith? (It is real important for a Christian to have other Christians available, anyone on staff would love talk with you about your faith.)
What are some big time questions you have about God, Jesus, Christianity, the World, etc.?
What do you hope and expect your new life to look like now that you are a Christian? The Bible says: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
What are some “old things” in your life which you hope to leave behind?
| !! John 3:16 Card
|
Getting Baptized
| God the greatest giverso loved the greatest motivethe world the greatest needthat he gave the greatest actHis only son the greatest giftthat whosoever the greatest invitationbelieves in Him the greatest opportunityshould not perish the greatest deliverancebut have eternal life. the greatest joy |
See page 19 for this resource.
Joining the Church
See page 21 for this resource.
Get to Know You Flyer
How We Used This. . .
This is a form we had the incoming freshmen fill out so we could have a few details about their life.
15 Questions To Get To Know You . . . Freshman Thingy!
Name: __________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________
City: ___________________________ Zip: ____________
E-Mail: _________________________________________
Graduation year: ___2002_____ High School: ___________
Mom’s name/Dad’s name: __________________________
Do your parents go to Saddleback Church? Yes ___ No ___
1. How long have you been attending Saddleback Church and how did you start attending?
2. Circle the word that would describe your junior high involvement at the church: ACTIVE OCCASIONAL INFREQUENT
3. What did you like most about WILDSIDE? (The junior high ministry @ Saddleback—in case you’re new)
4. What did you like least about WILDSIDE?
5. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
6. How much time during the week do you spend on the internet?
7. Are you involved with any team/sport/club/etc. at your school? If yes, what?
8. What three words would you use to describe your family?
9. What’s your favorite type of music? Radio station?
10. What makes you the most angry?
11. Who has been the most influential person in your life? Why?
12. Who was your small group leader during WILDSIDE?
13. What is one thing in your life that brings you the greatest joy?
14. How would you describe your relationship with God right now?
15. How would you answer this question, “I am happiest when …”
Answer YES or NO to the following questions
Do you eat fish? Yes No
Do you like donuts? Yes No
Do you attend church on Saturday nights? Yes No
Do you attend other churches? Yes No
Do you love warts? Yes No
Do you live in England? Yes No
Are you normally happy? Yes No
Do you own a Bible? Yes No
Do you want to meet more people? Yes No
Do you love questionnaires? Yes No
Do you think Kurt Johnston has more hair than Doug Fields? Yes No
resources for the
CONGREGATION
Area Bible Study Curriculum: Student Workbook Sample
How We Used This. . .
At our Area Bible study small groups, we provide a workbook for our students. The following resource is one lesson.
Area Bible Study Curriculum: Leader Notes
How We Used This. . .
The following text (without layout) comes from the curriculum we give to our small group leaders.
Responding to the CALL of Evangelism
Introduction 10 minutes
Lesson Objective
This lesson will lay a foundation for the evangelistic call all believers must answer. Evangelism is necessary, and this lesson will highlight four facts that prove this truth.
Fill-in Sentences
2,000 years ago, Jesus, the Son of God, died to save everyone in the world. If you stop to really think about it, this event is truly mind-boggling.
The next 5 lessons are going to explore evangelism and help us discover what our responsibilities are as believers.
Evangelism means sharing the Good News of Salvation.
Not every Christian is called by God to be an evangelist, but all believers should be evangelistic.
This lesson will explore four truths that prove why evangelism is a non-negotiable call to every believer.
What’s the Point?
Let’s be honest: Evangelism—in all its many expressions—is tough. It’s something all Christians struggle with because it’s hard to do and it’s worthwhile.
This unit is going to study evangelism. Without an evangelistic attitude, the Christian community becomes a holy huddle. The Church doors are closed tight, the sign above reads “Saints Only”. Sharing the Good News is a primary task of every believer.
Teaching Groups: Study 15 minutes
Teaching Group Verses
Group #1 Matthew 9:9-13
Group #2 1 Timothy 2:1-4
Group #3 1 Corinthians 1:26-29
Group #4 Hebrews 9:27, Mark 16:15-16
What’s the Point?
It’s clear that this world has problems--sickness, death, unhappiness, injustice, crime, etc. What isn’t clear to most people is that these problems come from sin: being separated from God. The whole world is unhealthy, and God wants everyone to be healed. Most won’t accept Christ, and thus be saved, but God still desires everyone to be saved.
God works hard to get us back: he’s given us his Word, his Son, and his spirit. God also works through ordinary people to bring others into his kingdom. I Corinthians 1:26-29 may be a bit difficult for your group . . . extra help may be required. Finally, everyone has a choice; life is short and we believers need to be up to the task of evangelism.
Teacher Facilitates Study
Break your students into four groups. Do this randomly, and change it up each week. Tell the students to study and talk about their verse.
Each group will be responsible to 1) retell the passage in their own words (some groups like to use skits), and 2) write a one sentence summary of the passage.
Teaching Groups: Teach 15 minutes
ABS Teacher Facilitates Teaching
After each Teaching Group is done with its assignment, bring all the groups together and facilitate the teaching time.
Wrapping it Up 5-10 minutes
Fill-in Sentences
Four truths which prove the necessity of Evangelism
1. People are sick: infected with sin. This means separation from God and this leads to death.
2. God wants everyone to be healed/saved.
3. God works through ordinary people to heal others.
4. Each person must make a decision of faith; life is short.
The Extra Mile 2 minutes
Digging Deeper
Read Matthew 10:1-42. Make a list of all the directions Jesus gave to his disciples that directly apply to you.
Table Talk
1. Who are three people we know who need to hear the Good News?
2. How important is evangelism to our family? How is our evangelism expressed?
3. When do you find it easy to share your faith with someone?
Small Groups 35-45 minutes
Bible Study Scripture
Matthew 5:17-26
Bible Study: Questions
Matthew 5:17-26
After reading this passage, does anyone have any questions? What doesn’t make sense or is strange or weird?
Can someone retell this event/passage/passage in his or her own words?
Who were the Pharisees? What did they think about Jesus?
Why did Jesus forgive the paralytic’s sins?
Why did the Pharisees get so mad?
What role does faith play in this event?
Why did Jesus heal the paralytic?
What was the paralytic’s biggest problem, being a sinner or being paralyzed?
What significance does this event have for evangelism?
More small group questions
Consider the different kinds of people in this event. Who are you like the most and why?
the paralytic who needs desperate healing
the four friends who bring the sick to Jesus
the Pharisees who criticize and are against Jesus
the crowd who praise God for his grace
the healed paralytic who has recently been healed
What do you first think of when you hear the word evangelism?
Look back at the four truths presented in “wrapping it up”. Which one is the most significant for you and why?
Do you think you are an evangelistic person? Why? How do you express your evangelism?
Who is a person you think is evangelistic? Why?
What makes evangelism hard? What is something easy about evangelism?
When was the last time you verbally shared your faith with someone?
What is one specific thing that you will do next week to be more evangelistic?
What are some spiritual goals you may have for this year?
What would you like to get out of this small group?
Truth for Today Fill-in Sentences
1. Decide to work with God to build an evangelistic attitude.
2. Make a list of five of your non-Christian friends.
3. Begin praying for them and ask God to give you opportunities to share with them.
4. Be ready to be used by God; the time is now and there’s no reason to wait.
Prayer Requests
Examples of Bible Study Curriculum Series
How We Used This. . .
At our Area Bible study small groups, we provide curriculum for our small group leaders. This page contains some of the series we have done. More curriculum is available through Simply Youth Ministry (1-866-9-SIMPLY or www.simplyyouthministry.com).
Life of Christ
· The Incarnation
· The Beginning Of Jesus’ Ministry
· The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus
· Ministry Begins
· Jesus’ Model of Discipleship
· The Opposition: Pharisees, Sadducees, and Teachers of the Law
· I AM
· Jesus the Healer
· Jesus the Forgiver of Sin
· The Final Night of Jesus
· The Death of Jesus
· The Resurrection of Jesus
Working out what God is working in
· The roadmap for survival: God’s word
· He’s not finished yet
· How to know God's will
· How to do God's will
· Asking God the right questions
· Seeking God’s answers
· Knocking on doors in your life
· Batteries not included: the spirit-filled life
Surviving Your Christian Faith
· Making Godly choices
· Temptations: traps or tools
· Beating life’s problems
· Stay close to the fire: Christian friends
· Putting God first in your life
· Managing conflict
· Forgiving others
· The disciplined survivor
The Tools of Survival
· How to last your lifetime: spiritual disciplines
· Help! I’ve fallen asleep and I’m not done praying
· How to track your investments: being accountable
· How to read a love letter
· The body you belong to: the church
· How to be rich: the art of giving
· Mind over what matters: memorizing scripture
· How to be productive: resting well
Discovering Evangelism
· Responding to the CALL of evangelism
· Understanding the CONSEQUENCES of being evangelistic
· How to CHANGE your heart towards evangelism
· CELEBRATING the good news
· How to COMMUNICATE the good news
· Maintaining CREDIBLE friendships
Letter to Area Bible Study Host Homes
How We Used This. . .
When we begin our Area Bible Studies for the year, we send a letter to the host homes so they know what to expect.
Dear ABS Host Family,
Thank you for allowing our high school ministry to use your home for our Area Bible Study (ABS) program. Whether you decide to go out on a “date-night” during our time at your house, or participate as a small group leader, or hide in your bedroom, I want you to know how much I appreciate you and your willingness to open your home to the students at Saddleback Church!
What To Expect:
Lots of noise and laughter, cookie crumbs, and some freshmen running through the house--but most importantly, many changed lives. You will be among the first to hear the stories about students accepting Christ, connecting with other believers, and growing spiritually.
What I Suggest:
Meet with your ABS leaders after the first meeting to let them know your “Top Pet Peeves.” For example, you may want everyone to leave their shoes in the entryway or eat snacks in the kitchen only or to stay out of your grandmother’s prized rose garden! Whatever your particular wishes are--just mention those things to all the leaders.
Promise us that you will treat yourself to a real blessing during (at least) one of the meetings, that is to listen to a lesson and watch the interaction between the leaders and their small groups. We guarantee that you will be filled with gratitude over the opportunity to open your home to ABS!
May God richly bless you for your generosity,
Doug Fields
Youth Pastor
resources for the
COMMITTED
Discipleship Tools: RootWorks
How We Used This. . .
The following is a sample page taken from our RootWorks Bible study on the book of Philippians.
Questions for Philippians 1:12-14
1. What has happened as a result of Paul’s imprisonment?
2. What does Paul’s experience say about how God can work through difficult circumstances?
3. How does Paul’s experience relate to the following verse?
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” Romans 8:28
4. Do you ever feel imprisoned at school or chained to someone?
5. How might your “imprisonment” serve to help you talk about God?
Questions for Philippians 1:15-18
1. Paul is talking about two types of preaching being conducted while he’s in jail. One group has sincere motives while the other group has greedy motives. Paul recognizes the mixed motives but he’s thrilled the message of Christ is getting out regardless of motives. What is an example of a church having greedy motives?
2. What can one do when he/she recognizes impure motives?
Discipleship Tools: Student Accountability Group Card
How We Used This. . .
We give this card to students to remind them of their commitment and to give them a place for their partner’s phone number.
| Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that | |
| you may be healed. James 5:16 |
| StudentAccountabilityGroup |
I desire to grow in my relationship with God, and I acknowledge my need for personal accountability in my life. I commit to meet once a week with my partner to pray and encourage one another. ______________________________partner ______________________________partner’s phone number |
Discipleship Tools: Student Accountability Group Covenant
How We Used This. . .
When students commit to SAG 5, we have them sign this covenant. We laminate it and then give it back to them as a reminder.
Student Accountability Group
C O V E N A N T
I, ____________________ , desiring to grow in my relationship with God, acknowledge my need for personal accountability in my life. I commit to meet once a week with my partner to pray and encourage one another.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and
pray for each other so that you may be healed.
James 5:16
____________________ ____________________
signed partner’s name
____________________ ____________________
date partner’s signature
Discipleship Tools: Sign Up Card
How We Used This. . .
When students commit to any of the HABITS discipleship tools, we have them sign a card so we can follow up and encourage them.
YES! I want to develop Spiritual H.A.B.I.T.S.
I am signing up for:
r Quiet Time Journal OR r RootWorks (don’t get both at once)
r S.A.G. Five (r help me find a partner)
r Hidden Treasures r Bank of Blessings
Name: _______________________________________
Phone: _______________________________________
School/Grade: _________________________________
Address: ______________________________________
______________________________________________
Turn this in at the information table to pick up your tools.
Sample Letter to Encourage Committed Students
My dear friend,
I hope this letter finds you doing well! I’m writing to encourage you in your study of God’s Word through RootWorks. I’ve been hearing all kinds of feedback from those who have taken it.
“It’s the best Bible study I’ve ever done!”
“Uh, well...I have it...I read the first page, but to be honest, it’s under my rat cage.”
“Fields, I can’t believe it. I found three typos.”
“I’m going to start it soon. I promise.”
I’m so thrilled that you’ve expressed a desire to study the Bible that I wanted to write you and say, “way to go”.
Here’s some suggestions to help you with this discipline...
Don’t give up! Let me or your small group leader know how you’re doing.
Do a little at a time. Habits are formed by doing something everyday for at least twenty-one straight days. Studying the Bible can become a habit.
Pray for a new insight from God each time you study the Bible. Remember, you’re not just reading, you’re studying.
Mark the mistakes you find and let me know so I can correct them.
Share any new insights with your S.A.G. 5 partner. If you don’t have one and you need help finding one, then let me know.
If you don’t understand a question, forget about it and move on. Don’t let that keep you from finishing a lesson.
Know that I love you and thank God for you,
PS: If you want more information of some of the other discipleship tools let me know (i.e. Quiet time journal, Bank of blessings, Hidden Treasures).
Bible Institute Sample
How We Used This. . .
Once a month, we teach a three-hour class called the Bible Institute. The following resource is a sample page from one of the studies. The next page contains the table of contents from the first lesson.
Bible Institute: Introduction to the Bible
What Kind of Book Is This?
1. The Bible is __(mostly)__ history.
(narrative of events which happened in the past.)
2. The Bible is __(much)__ __(more)__ than history.
--It’s really __(God’s)__ autobiography.
(How he created, sustains, works in, and saves the world.)
3. The Bible is a book about God’s __(love )__ __(affair)__ with people.
| Salvation Historyrefers to the series of historical events which are specific acts of God to save his people. |
4. Because of this, the Bible is called __(salvation)__ history.
Salvation History 101
a) Adam and Eve were created perfect (very good).
b) Adam fell into sin and away from God.
c) God has been trying ever since to bring people back into His Kingdom.
5. The Bible is different from a __(history)__ textbook. The Bible is __(didactic)__.
| Didactic“Intended to instruct” |
--It wants to __(change)__ your __(life)__.
--If you __(hear)__ your __(heart)__, it will!!
6. Why did God __(write)__ the __(Bible)__?
a) to give __(wisdom)__ about __(the world)__.
b) to bring people __(closer)__ to __(him)__.
Bible Institute: Introduction to the Bible
What Kind of Book Is This?
The Uniqueness Of The Bible
The Structure Of The Bible
Inspiration: How The Bible was Written
Canonization: How The Bible Was Recognized
Old Testament Canon
New Testament Canon
What About The Stuff That Didn’t Get In?
Illumination: How the Bible is Understood
Seven Images the Bible Uses to Describe Itself
Problems in Understanding the Bible
Advanced Bible Study Method
Bible Study Luke 7:1-10
Digging Deeper: Committed Newsletter
How We Used This. . .
This resource is a newsletter we send out to every student who has committed to the HABITS.
resources for the
CORE
Student Leadership Brochure and Application
How We Used This. . .
The following is the text (without layout) from our Student Leadership application.
Introduction and Table of Contents
Hello!
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re interested in leadership and you want to find out exactly
What Is Student Leadership?
Commitments are tough, and they often determine how we spend our time. This brochure will outline
What A Student Leader Is Committed To.
After checking out the commitments of a student leader, you’ll see that we’re expecting a lot from our student leaders; however, there are benefits and you’ll find that
High Requirements have High Rewards.
To further our explanation of student leadership, we have provided
Two Pictures Of A Student Leader.
After taking a look what it means to be a student leader, you might decide you want to begin the process and find out
How To Become A Student Leader.
After you prayerfully consider your commitment to being a student leader, you will need to fill out the
Student Leader Application
before you make an appointment for your interview.
We are excited about our student leadership. If you have any questions about student leadership, please call (949) 609-8000.
Blessings,
High School Staff
What Is Student Leadership?
Jesus expected leaders to serve
Jesus gave his disciples an image of leadership that we use as our standard for student leadership within our high school ministry.
“Jesus called them [the disciples] together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave--just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matt 20:25-28
Not only does Jesus shatter an existing leadership style (being in charge), but he lays out a prescription of a leader that reflects serving others. Serving others is how we define ministry.
This type of servant-leadership is not attractive to most people. It goes in direct opposition to the attitude of running to the car to ride in the front seat and being first in line to eat. But this is the type of servant standard we want reflected by our student leadership.
What is the Difference between a Core Student and Student Leadership?
Core students attend our programs and are involved in a ministry. Every person in student leadership is in the core, but not every core student is in student leadership. Student leadership is a program designed specifically for the core student who is willing the make the extra commitments to fulfill the high school ministry’s purpose. We view student leadership on a similar level to our staff. Student leaders are student staff.
What A Student Leader Is Committed To
Committed to a Relationship with Christ
Ø I acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ in my life and have a personal relationship with him.
Committed to Growing in Christ
Ø I am committing to spiritual growth through involvement with an Area Bible Study small group.
Ø I am committing to spiritual growth through the habits of:
ý consistent quiet times (Quiet Time Journal)
ý accountability with another believer (S.A.G. Five)
ý memorization of scripture (Hidden Treasures)
ý involvement with church body
ý giving (Bank of Blessings)
ý personal Bible Study (RootWorks)
Committed to Serving Because of Christ
Ø I am committing to contributing to or leading a ministry on a consistent basis.
Committed to Living a “No Doubt” Lifestyle
Ø I am committing to choices, lifestyle, and attitudes that are godly, knowing that my leadership is a model for other students.
Committed to Friendship Evangelism
Ø I am committing to Friendship Evangelism, and bringing my friends to appropriate programs.
Committed to the Student Ministry
Ø I am committing to attend a Weekend Service and greet other students in order to create a warm environment.
Ø I am committing to attend Class 101, 201, and 301 before I am a part of student leadership.
Ø I am committing to attend a non-negotiable, monthly student leadership meeting.
Ø I am committing to greet other students at all the programs I attend.
Ø I am committing to understand the purpose statement and to memorize it.
Ø I am committing to understand the planned values and the maturity process of the high school ministry programs.
High Requirements High Rewards
We’re asking a lot from student leaders and because of this, we realize leadership isn’t for everyone. Many people won’t want to rise to the high level of commitment we are expecting. Others might not have enough time to commit to attending both Weekend Service and an Area Bible Study Small Group. If student leadership isn’t for you, don’t worry about it. Not being involved in student leadership isn’t necessarily a measure of your spiritual maturity. We are committed to you and want to help you continue to grow spiritually regardless of your involvement.
Although we’re asking for a considerable commitment from our student leaders, there are also benefits. Student leadership has high requirements, but it also has high rewards. Part of the high reward student leaders receive is more intense and personal time with the high school staff. We want to invest in the lives of our leaders.
To The Parents
We are especially concerned about the family life of our student leaders. We don’t want to create a ton of programs to keep students out every night of the week. Spiritual growth does not necessarily require sacrificing family time and commitments.
As far as a time commitment, we’re asking our leadership students to be out one night during the week (Area Bible Study small group), attend one service on the weekend, be a part of a ministry team (each requires different amounts of time), attend a monthly leadership meeting (two hours), and care for the Saddleback students at their schools.
What parents can expect from our high school staff:
1. We will Model Christian leadership for your kids.
2. We will Mentor them in their leadership development.
3. We will Monitor their growth as student leaders.
4. We will Motivate them through encouragement and feedback.
5. We will encourage them to Multiply by sharing their giftedness with others.
Once your son or daughter has filled out the application and gone through the interview, we will contact you to make sure you understand and can support the commitments we are looking for.
Two Pictures of a Student Leader
Profile of a Student Leader Who is Living a “No Doubt” Lifestyle
Accepting of others
Accountable to another Christian
Authentic and transparent
Encouraging
Faithful with the small things
Genuinely friendly
Growing spiritually
Helpful and serving
Honoring God by consistently choosing God’s way over the world’s way
Humble
Love for life
Positive attitude
Proud to be a devoted follower of Christ
Role model of a Christian student
Portrait of a Student Leader Who is Committed to the Student Ministry
Acts as a campus pastor at school
Is committed to the unity of our youth ministry and feels a sense of ownership in the ministry
Follows up on weekend visitors and other students when back on campus
Greets on weekend worship services and other programs
Is involved in all of our major events
Looks out for loners and visitors
Meets with other student leaders to pray for their campuses
Models appropriate program behavior
Is on the lookout for opportunities to serve
Oversees and encourages at least one Ministry team
Solves youth ministry problems without complaining
Speaks highly of staff and other student leaders
Understands the purposes of why we do what we do
How To Become A Student Leader
1. Prayerfully consider all the student leader commitments.
2. Talk with your family and evaluate the commitments.
3. Type your answers to the six questions below.
4. Turn in your answers and schedule an interview with Doug.
Student Leader Application
Please type your answers to all of the following questions.
1. Why do you want to be in student leadership?
2. How would your non-Christian friends describe your relationship with God?
3. How would your Christian friends describe your relationship with God?
4. How would your parents describe your relationship with God?
5. How is your “friendship evangelism” going?
6. Explain your spiritual growth and comment on your use of the following:
Quiet Time Journal
S.A.G. Five
Hidden Treasures
Bank of Blessings
RootWorks
Student Leadership Meeting Agenda
How We Used This. . .
This page is the agenda from a typical student leadership meeting.
Review
Purpose statement
Potential audience
Programs
Process
“Romans Road”/The “Biblical road to salvation (3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9-10, 10:13)
Mexicali leadership
Teaching
How to Continue Growing As a Student Leader
Things Matt does to grow in his faith
What the Bible wants to teach you
Some practical steps for becoming better at studying the Bible
Leadership on the move
Commit to study (in-depth) a minimum of 8 chapters in the New Testament
UnderGrad: spread the word to your friends who don’t go to church; invite them
UnderGrad: (if your time allows) sign up to help with some of the preparations (sign up with Aaron C.)
Reading Assignment: Purpose Driven Youth Ministry, pages 137-155
Leadership Reports
Relationships
Encouragement
Laughter and Celebration
Acceptance
Transparency
Involvement of Students
Outreach orientation
Numerical growth
Spiritual growth
Home-like
Intimate
Professional
Strategic Follow up
Group Prayer
Core Reports
Know and Understand
Student Leaders Need to Know and Understand:
The five Biblical purposes and our purpose statement (chapter 2 and page 57)
Our Potential Audiences (chapter 5)
Our spiritual maturity process (chapter 12) (including all 5 Friendship Evangelism steps and all 6 HABITS)
Our planned values (chapter 13)
Core Reports
How We Used This. . .
This resource contains the text (without layout) from our “Core Reports.” We have our student leaders answer these questions every month to help hold them accountable to the commitments they have made.
Core Report
a personal inventory for student leaders
“Examine yourselves to see if your faith is really genuine. Test yourselves.
If you cannot tell that Jesus Christ is among you, it means you have
failed the test.”
2 Corinthians 13:5 (NLT)
Evangelism
I. List five non-Christian friends you’re praying for (or need to start praying for):
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
II. What is a specific area of your life where God is calling you to be evangelistic? What does your evangelism look like?
III. On your own: take some time to think about what God has done in your life. Use the testimony tool to help you write out your life story.
Worship
I. What role do you play at the Weekend Worship Service?
II. Areas of need for the Weekend Worship Service:
· Table leaders (6:30, 9:45, 11:30)
· Greeters (6:30, 9:45, 11:30)
· Set Up (before 6:30)
· Clean Up (after 6:30, 9:45, 11:30)
Fellowship
I. Who is your small group leader? ___________________________________________
II. What are you doing at ABS to be a leader? What things should you be doing to help fulfill the purpose of ABS?
Discipleship
What action steps are you taking to grow in your faith?
What do you feel is the next step for you spiritually?
Ministry
I. Why is servanthood important?
II. What ministry team are you serving on right now? ___________________________________________
III. How would you rate yourself on the following expectations for student leaders (1-need a little help, 5-doing great)?
No Doubt: Lifestyle
Accepting of others 1 2 3 4 5
Accountable to another Christian 1 2 3 4 5
Authentic and transparent 1 2 3 4 5
Encouraging 1 2 3 4 5
Faithful with the small things 1 2 3 4 5
Genuinely friendly 1 2 3 4 5
Growing spiritually 1 2 3 4 5
Helpful and serving 1 2 3 4 5
Honoring God by consistently 1 2 3 4 5
Choosing God’s way over the world’s way 1 2 3 4 5
Humble 1 2 3 4 5
Love for life 1 2 3 4 5
Positive attitude 1 2 3 4 5
Proud to be a devoted follower of Christ 1 2 3 4 5
Role model of a Christian student 1 2 3 4 5
Servant Minister
Acts as a campus pastor at school 1 2 3 4 5
Is committed to the unity of our youth ministry and feels a sense of ownership in the ministry 1 2 3 4 5
Follows-up on weekend visitors and other students when back on campus 1 2 3 4 5
Greets on Weekend Worship Services and other programs 1 2 3 4 5
Is involved in all of our major events 1 2 3 4 5
Looks out for loners and visitors 1 2 3 4 5
Meets with other student leaders to pray for their campuses 1 2 3 4 5
Models appropriate program behavior 1 2 3 4 5
Is on the look-out for opportunities to serve 1 2 3 4 5
Oversees and encourages at least one Ministry team 1 2 3 4 5
Solves youth ministry problems without complaining 1 2 3 4 5
Speaks highly of staff and other student leaders 1 2 3 4 5
Understands the purposes of why we do what we do 1 2 3 4 5
III. Complete the SHAPE inventory (even if you’ve done one in the past).
Testimony Tool Cover Letter
How We Used This. . .
This resource is the cover letter we put with our tool that helps students write their testimony (see next page for this tool).
TESTIMONY
sharing how your relationship with Jesus
has impacted your life
What is a Testimony?
When we commit ourselves to Jesus, a change takes place in our lives. This changed-life story is what is known as a testimony. “Testimony” means sharing how your relationship with Jesus has impacted your life. The Bible tells us that when we become Christians our “old” self is put in the past and that we are made new because of Christ. The process of being “made new” is what a testimony reveals.
Testimony comes from the word testify. You might recognize this term as something that a witness in a court might give – they “testify” as to what they know or what they saw. When you share about what Christ has done in your life you are testifying to His presence.
Telling the story of Christ in your life is part of reaching out to others by telling them about God. You don’t need to be a Super-Christian to give your testimony, and your story doesn’t need to be flashy or dramatic; you only need to have a desire to tell others about God in your life and a commitment to living God’s way.
Are you thinking about giving your testimony?
If you’re thinking about sharing with the high school ministry how Christ has impacted your life, we would like to congratulate you. We think it’s incredible that you are thinking about sharing how God has worked in your life. Just picking up this sheet takes a great deal of courage – we’re proud of you!!! We want to give you the tools that you need to make giving your testimony a successful and meaningful experience. Attached to this letter is a tool designed to make this as easy as possible.
What now?
Take some time to pray and see where God leads you.
Use the testimony tool to write out and reflect on your personal story.
Next Call the High School office and set up a phone interview (the interview is just a few questions about your testimony). Call Doug Elliott at (949) 609-8000.
Testimony Tool
How We Used This. . .
This resource will help your students think about how God has impacted their lives.
Writing Your Personal Testimony
The Example of the Apostle Paul
One of the privileges and responsibilities of Christians is to share with others our faith in Christ. Although many methods and plans can be used to communicate our faith, none is more effective than sharing how the love, grace, and mercy of Christ has changed our lives.
People to whom we witness may evade issues, attempt to discredit Biblical and historical facts, or blame their condition on others. But it’s hard to discount the authentic testimony of a believer whose life has been transformed.
That’s the reason for this lesson. Completing the worksheet will better equip you to give a logical and organized presentation of who Jesus Christ is and what he has done in your life.
Let’s use the story of Paul’s conversion as a pattern for your testimony.
Read the Bible text: Acts 26:1-23
Paul’s attitudes and actions before his conversion –VV. 1-11
· Lived as a Pharisee – v. 5 (Gal. 1:13-14)
· Imprisoned many saints – v. 10
· Condoned the deaths of many saints-v. 10
· Persecuted Christians – v. 11
Circumstances surrounding Paul’s Conversion – VV. 12-18
· Where was he going?
· What time was it?
· What did he see?
· Who was with him?
· What did he hear?
(Read 2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15)
Changes in Paul’s attitudes and actions after his conversion – VV. 19-23
What evidence of Paul’s repentance and conversion can be found in the following verses:
· Verse 19
· Verse 20
· Verse 21
· Verse 22,23
(Read 1 John 1:5-9; 2:3-6)
Writing Your Personal Testimony . . . Your Turn!
Attitudes and actions before I became a Christian
(If appropriate, include family or church background. Avoid naming religious denominations (or naming specific people), since this may alienate some of your listeners.)
Circumstances surrounding my conversion
(Consider time, place, important people, motivation, emotional state, etc. This is a natural place to summarize the gospel: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.)
Changes in my attitudes and actions since my conversion
(Be enthusiastic and realistic! Paint a true picture of your new life, share your victories and let everyone know you’re not perfect.)
Miscellaneous Comments
(If there’s anything else you’d like to say, write it here.)
S.H.A.P.E. Inventory: Cover Letter
I’m really glad that you want to take the Spiritual Gifts/SHAPE test. This is a real marker of maturity and I’m proud of you!
It will take you at least 30 minutes to fill all this stuff out so let me explain what I have sent you to help you decipher these two tests. There are two documents:
(1)Finding your SHAPE in high school ministry, and
(2)Spiritual Gifts Discovery test.
I would encourage you to take the Spiritual Gifts Discovery test first. The answers to this will give you a better understanding of your spiritual gifts. This new discovery will help you fill out the SHAPE survey where the first question asks you about your spiritual gifts.
Remember, God has given every Christian at least one spiritual gift to assist in God’s work. Once you discover your giftedness you will be able to move in that direction and look for God’s confirmation of that gift. The Bible says, “Now, brothers and sisters, I want you to understand about spiritual gifts...There are different kinds of gifts, but they are all from the same Spirit...There are different ways to serve but the same Lord to serve. And there are different ways that God works through people but the same God. God works in all of us in everything we do. Something from the Spirit can be seen in each person, for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-7
I encourage you to write your answers (0-3) next to the questions BEFORE transferring them to the “answer sheet”. This way you won’t be tempted to answer according to the spiritual gift you want. It’s not about what gift you want, but about how God has gifted you. It would be easy to manipulate your answers but that wouldn’t give you any new insight into God’s gifting of you.
After you’ve taken the tests, bring them to me or one of the other staff on Sunday and we’ll make a time to look through your answers, explain some of the spiritual gifts, and see if we can’t discover a ministry that best fits your SHAPE. It will be a rewarding experience and possibly life-changing!
I don’t want to sound weird, but know that God’s enemy doesn’t want you to discover your giftedness. When you begin “working” for God and serving him you are more dangerous and threatening to Satan.
Congratulations! You’re gifted!
S.H.A.P.E. Inventory
How We Used This. . .
This questionnaire helps students discover how God has Shaped them for ministry. Every student who completes 301 takes this inventory, and we also make it available at our Crowd program (Weekend Worship Service). The following is the text (without formatting) of the SHAPE inventory.
Personal Information
Name:
Address:
City, State, Zip:
Phone:
School/Grade:
| “. . . Each one has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.”(I Corinthians 7:7) |
Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts I believe I have: (see below)
1.
2.
3.
I feel I may have these gifts because:
1.
2.
3.
Spiritual gifts that COMMUNICATE God’s Word:
preaching evangelism apostle and missions leadership
Spiritual gifts that EDUCATE God’s People:
teaching encouragement (exhortation) wisdom knowledge
Spiritual gifts that DEMONSTRATE God’s Love:
serving mercy hospitality pastoring giving helping faith administering
Spiritual gifts that CELEBRATE God’s Presence:
healing miracles tongues interpretation of tongues prophecy
| “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.”(Psalm 37:4) |
Heart
List some things you’re good at and love doing:
1.
2.
| “God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose . . .”(Revelation 17:17) |
3.
People compliment me when:
Abilities
| “There are different abilities to perform service...”(I Corinthians 12:6) |
The following are my strongest abilities:
1.
2.
3.
Other skills and/or abilities I’m learning and/or working on are:
1.
2.
3.
A few examples include:
drama, writing, speaking, arts, photography, video, counseling, fixing, designing, computers, accounting, music, memory, tutoring/explaining, athletics, etc.
| “No one can really know what anyone else is thinking or what he is really like, except that person himself. ”(I Corinthians 2:11) |
Personality
This is how I see myself: (circle one of the two words for each comment)
1. Around others I am more: RESERVED or OUTGOING
2. My decisions are based more on: FACTS/THINKING or FEELINGS
3. In my relationships I tend to be more: DEPENDENT ON OTHERS or INDEPENDENT
4. My use of time is more: DETERMINED or SPONTANEOUS
One example of why I circled each of the above is:
1.
2.
3.
| “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. ”(Romans 8:28) |
Experience
My spiritual experience is (or how I became a Christian):
Some painful experiences that I’ve had:
A past experience I’ve learned from is:
S.H.A.P.E.
If I could design a specific way to serve God around my personal SHAPE, and I knew I couldn’t fail, it might be:
Ministry Team Leader Responsibilities (Greeting Team)
How We Used This. . .
This is an overview of the responsibilities for the student leader of the greeting team. After one of our student leaders (Sarah) expressed an interest to be the leader of this team, we gave her clear expectations so she could do her job well.
Greeting Team Leader: Overview of Responsibilities
Recruiting
You are the point person for recruiting new students into the greeting team (incoming freshmen, new students, etc). These students don’t need to be outgoing, extroverted people. They just need to have a willingness to greet others with sincerity, helping to create a warm atmosphere at the Weekend Worship Service. Chances are, you’ll find it difficult to find the people you need. The most important recruiting “tactic” you have is to pray.
Anytime new students are recruited, give Carol Cooper a sheet with their names on it so she can enter them into our high school database greeting team roster.
Scheduling
At the end of each month, create a greeting schedule for the next month. It’s important to be specific with responsibilities. Be sensitive if people in your ministry need to take it easy—we don’t want to burn anyone out.
Training
You will also be responsible for training your team to be good greeters. Good “people skills” don’t come naturally for everyone. Make sure you model all of the basic do’s and don’ts for your team:
Some Basic Do’s:
· Do initiate conversation. Say “Hello, welcome to Saddleback.”
· Do have great eye contact
· Do have good breath
· Do be sincere and smile
· Do be ready for people to give you a “weird stare”
Some Basic Don’ts:
· Don’t use sarcasm or make jokes which might be offensive
· Don’t say, “Are you new here?” or “Where have you been?” or “We haven’t seen you in a while”
· Don’t give up or think you aren’t ministering
· Don’t let people walk in and sit down without being greeted
Ministry Team Descriptions
How We Used This. . .
This resource is a part of the promotion for getting students involved with a ministry team.
Art/Design
Can you draw, paint, and cut? If you have any creative abilities check out this ministry to help make it SPARKLE!
Audio
Are you a “tech-head?” This ministry helps the audio staff with sound at the Weekend Worship Service and other youth ministry events.
Babysitting
If you’re responsible & love kids we need you to help out! By babysitting (for free) for staff during our once a month meetings you can be used in great ways . . . even improve marriages by letting staff couples with kids have date nights.
Band
Do you play an instrument? Then you can use you talents at the Weekend Worship Service with Taffy and the others in the band. Remember--practice, practice, practice!
Care Calling
We need caring students, who don't mind talking to people that they don't know, to help out with the tremendous amount of calls that we need to make each week to visitors and uninvolved students.
Children’s Sunday School Leader
Do you love children and teaching? Sign up and we'll get you involved in the children's ministry.
Drama
You can be a star! Right here in this high school room! If you can act, if you are creative and like to be on stage . . . sign up!
Freshman Transition
This ministry welcomes incoming freshmen into our overwhelming weekend services to make the transition a little easier.
Greeting/Table Leader/Host
Are you friendly and like to meet new people? If so, you could help us out! We need you to help make our Weekend Worship Service a friendly place.
“Fishsticks”
In this ministry we need some students to welcome and greet students in front of the Worship Center, and then invite them to the Weekend Worship Service.
Meals For Needy/ Jackets For Jesus /World Shoe Relief
Once a month take food, jackets, and shoes to the needy.
Jr. High
Mentor and encourage Jr. High students in the Jr. High program...Seniors Only!
Mountain Bike
A rugged ministry made for fun! Hop on your bikes and blaze down the mountain trails in our area together in fellowship.
Office Work
If you like helping and serving others, we could use your help in the high school office. i.e...paperwork, phone calls...
Photography
If you own a camera, you're eligible! We need students to be responsible and creative with a camera to take pictures of all our events.
Prayer/ Encouragement
This ministry prays for other students and encourages them with letters and phone calls. It meets every week and is very rewarding.
Choir
If you like to sing and can carry a tune, Taffy and the band could use your talents at the Weekend Celebration. You just have to be able to attend practices and have a smile!
Surf/ Bodyboard
Dude! This ministry rips!! It's just a bunch of students who get together to surf and do devotions together.
Video
We need creative students to help make videos for the Weekend Celebrations!
Setup/ Cleanup
On the weekends we need students to come a little early or stay a little late to help up set up the room & then clean it up in between services and at the end!
Seniors Need Love
Would you like to serve in your community by visiting an old folks home? Seniors need love! There are lots of senior citizens that don’t have people to visit them...would YOU like to visit them?
resources for
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer Application Packet
How We Used This. . .
The following several pages is our volunteer application packet. We encourage everyone who is interested in joining our youth ministry team to read through it. This packet contains vital information about our youth ministry; it is intended to help potential volunteers make their decision concerning their commitment to the youth ministry.
Dear Potential High School Ministry Leader,
I’M THRILLED YOU MAY BE A SIGNIFICANT PART OF OUR HIGH SCHOOL MINISTRY!
At Saddleback Church, we believe everyone has something to offer and that everyone will be a “10” in some area of our church. Because God has entrusted us with over 1,000 high school students, we are constantly looking for men and women of God who might grow into becoming a “10” within our high school ministry. Even if you feel like a “2” right now, I’m thankful you’re willing to explore opportunities to serve God within our high school ministry.
I believe, healthy youth ministry is built on healthy relationships—between adult staff and students. Relationships are key to students feeling loved and understanding God’s love in practical ways. This is when real spiritual growth takes place in a student’s life.
The quality of our staff is very important. We are looking for men and women who have a deep commitment to Christ and a desire to care for students. Please take time to read the following material and fill out the application with prayer and consideration. Because we place great value on this ministry, we also place great value on the health of our staff.
Once we have received your application, we will call you to schedule an appointment with one of staff interviewers. Please know all information will be kept strictly confidential. In the meantime, please feel free to observe our weekend worship services or call about observing one of our Area Bible Study small groups.
As you know, Saddleback is a great church and our high school ministry is a great place to allow your time to make eternal investments in students’ lives! I’m looking forward to meeting you and spending some time talking about your hopes and desires for ministry. If you have any questions, please feel free to call our high school ministry office at 457-8411.
Excited to minister with you,
Doug Fields
Youth Pastor
What Students Need
We will only change the youth world one student at a time. Today’s students do not connect to programs they connect with people. The most effective way to impact students is through significant relationships with caring adults in their lives. One of the common roadblocks for adults getting started in youth ministry is they have misconceptions about what it takes to be a youth worker.
Common misconceptions are:
· You must be young
· You must have adequate Bible training
· You must be a perfect example of a Christian
· You must be a captivating communicator
· You must feel secure
· You must be able to act like one of the students
· You must have plenty of free time
· You must know everything about the latest youth culture
· You must be wild, crazy, and dynamic
· You must be liked by all students
· You must own a 15-passenger van
High school ministry is not the easiest ministry in the church and it’s normal for you and okay for you to feel inadequate about your skills. Your confidence will grow the more you’re around students and you see how God can use inadequate people (like you and me) to do great things.
Here’s the truth about what students need:
Students need adults who will. . .
· love God and live for Him
· be interested in their life
· take initiative to spend time with them
· pray for them
· be real
· say encouraging words
· believe in them
· laugh and have a good time
· remember their name and care for them
· share God’s love through personal experience
· be consistent in their attendance
· be patient
How To Get Involved In Students’ Lives
We will later explain the application process, but first it is important for you to understand what commitment we ask of our staff. For effective ministry with students you need to:
1. Understand the purpose and planned values of our ministry.
Take a look at the values and goals that make our high school ministry effective in reaching and caring for students.
2. Commit to a role in our ministry.
Consider the role for which God has SHAPED you in order to build relationships with students.
3. Grow as a minister.
Develop your personal ministry to students.
1. Understand the purpose and planned values of the high school ministry
The first key to be involved in students’ lives is to understand the purpose and planned values of our ministry.
Purpose Statement:
Based on the Great Commandment (Matt. 22:37-40) and the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20).
Our youth ministry exists to reach non-believing students, to connect them with other Christians, to help them grow in their faith, and to challenge the growing to discover their ministry and honor God with their life.
Planned Values:
Planned values are descriptive words that reflect the values, attitudes, styles and beliefs that help fulfill our purpose. We try to incorporate these key approaches into all of our programs. It is all built on RELATIONSHIPS.
Relational approach We want to spend time with students
Encouragement We want to make students feel good
Laughter and Celebration We want to help students enjoy life
Acceptance We want to meet students where they are
Transparency We want to be real with students
Involvement of students We want to get students participating
Outreach We want to reach the lost students
Numerical growth We want to reach the masses
Spiritual growth We want students to mature
Homelike environment We want students to feel like they belong
Intimate relationships We want students to feel cared for
Professional demeanor We want to do things well
Strategic follow up We want to know where students are
2. Commit to a role in our ministry
Secondly, you need to commit to a program.
Option A:
Program: Weekend Worship Service
Saturdays 6:30 PM, Sundays 9:45 AM or 11:30 AM
This is our large group meeting that’s designed to have a friendly, fun, challenging and exciting atmosphere. This morning program shatters the “church is boring” stereotype and helps students celebrate life. It is filled with laughter, antics, videos, singing, dramas and a message that challenges students towards spiritual maturity.
Leadership Role: Weekend Service Greeter/Table Leader
We need adults to greet, learn names, talk to students at tables, encourage students to attend other programs and help create an accepting atmosphere. For specific ministry description see page 8.
Option B
Program: Area Bible Studies
Various Nights, 7 - 9 PM
This is a key program for making our big group smaller by dividing into mid-week Bible study groups. These groups meet in homes for Bible study and then break into small groups for interaction, prayer requests, and accountability. It is very powerful for students who are being cared for on a small group basis.
Leadership Role: ABS Teacher or Small Group Leader
In general, most of our new volunteers start as small group leaders. This is your opportunity to go deeper with a group of students you can care for, encourage, pray with, and follow up on during the week. For specific ministry description, see page 10.
Option C
Program: Ministry Teams
Students in our ministry have “hands on” ministry experience. Ministry teams are students who are involved in areas of ministry based on their gifts and SHAPE. We want students committed to doing ministry. Examples of these teams include: drama, music, greeting, mission trips, organizing special events, surfing, sports, biking--the options are limitless and the experience is invaluable.
Leadership Role: Ministry Team Coordinator
Oversee the organizing and implementation of that ministry. Most teams are started by students, but need an adult to walk alongside for coaching and encouragement. For specific ministry description, see page 11.
There are many other opportunities to get involved in our ministry. The three listed are the best place to start. If you have a specific gift and desire, we would love to talk with you about your ideas.
3. Grow as a minister
The third key component to being effective in ministry is to develop as a minister.
Our goal for our staff is to move people from program-directed ministry to self-directed ministry. As you grow in this ministry, you will develop a strong sense of your purpose in the life of our students. Out of this sense of purpose grows direction and vision for how you make a difference in students’ lives.
The keys to developing as a minister are:
· TIME--be patient; it just takes time.
· PARTICIPATION--going to special events and camps will help solidify your relationships with students.
· INITIATIVE--the more you invest, the more you will get out of it. Your relationships will grow deeper as you invest your time.
Detailed Expectations: Weekend Worship Service Table Leader
(Ministry Description - Option A)
I. Call
To create a comfortable environment for students sitting at a table during our Weekend Worship Services. This comfortable environment includes facilitating conversation, remembering names, caring for immediate needs, and helping get students plugged into our mid-week Area Bible Study small groups.
This is a vital role within our ministry because a student won’t become theologically aware of God’s love if he/she doesn’t feel loved by anyone in a crowded room.
II. Commitment
Arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the service. Early arrival demonstrates care. Arriving before the students will allow you to secure a seat and greet students as they enter the room.
Be a greeter. Shake hands, touch, and help students feel welcomed and valued.
Encourage student interaction. Introduce students to other students and facilitate group interaction during table games and other table interactions.
Know Students’ Names. More than anything else, students love to be known by their name. As our group continues to grow, so does the need for knowing students’ names. Table leadership involves the positive recognition of students by their name.
Help visitors with the information card. Help student “seekers” fill out the information card that will place them on our mailing list and attendance sheet.
Model genuine worship during singing. The genuine worship of believers can witness effectively to seekers. Singing during the worship songs models a true heart after Christ.
Ask students…“Will I see you next week?” Foster a recognize-level interaction by asking to see them the following week.
Follow-up for regulars. Write a quick note (3 lines) to the regular students from your table who missed a week (you can give the letter to a staff person and the church will mail it during the week).
Respond to noise and disruption. Encourage students to pay attention and to respect the attention of others during the message.
Get students to circle their name on the attendance sheet. Help us to know who made it to the service and who didn’t by encouraging those at the table to circle their name.
III. Time Commitment
Table leader WEEKLY time commitment:
Regular attendance at the same high school service each week: Arriving 15 minutes early and staying 15 minutes after the service ends to carry on conversation and write a quick note. 1.5 hours per week.
This translates into a MONTHLY time commitment of:
Table leader–6 hours
Mandatory staff meeting–2 hours Total per month – 8 hours
Optional: Connect with students from your table outside of the weekend worship service-2 hours
IV. Character
We need leaders who consistently pursue an authentic and growing faith in Christ. We want our high school leaders growing spiritually and relying on God’s power and wisdom. We want our leaders praying that they will see students the way Jesus sees them, listen to students the way Jesus listens, and speak to students the way Jesus would speak to them.
Detailed Expectations: Small Group Leader
(Ministry Description - Option B)
I. Call
To oversee and care for the spiritual development of a small group of high school students (same sex) within one of our Area Bible Studies.
II. Commitment
Minister to the needs of 3-5 students within an ABS small group.
Help create an environment of community, family, and encouragement within a small group.
Follow-up on students’ needs (as needed) throughout the week through letters, phone calls or personal visitation.
Challenge small group students to grow in their faith by developing the H.A.B.I.T.S. defined in our high school ministry. Know which of the H.A.B.I.T.S. tools small group members are using.
Meet with small group students outside of ABS small group once a month.
III. Time Commitment
Small group leaders WEEKLY time commitment:
ABS small group-2 hours
One letter or phone call-15 minutes
This translates into a MONTHLY time commitment:
ABS small group-8 hrs
Mandatory Staff Meeting-2 hrs
Letter and phone calls-1 hrs
Connect with students outside of ABS-2hrs
Total per month – 13 hours or….26 minutes per day or…65 seconds per hour.
(For the same amount of time most people spend watching TV, you could be making a priceless contribution to the Kingdom by loving and leading a small group of impressionable students.)
IV. Character
We need leaders who consistently pursue an authentic and growing faith in Christ. We want our high school leaders growing spiritually and relying on God’s power and wisdom. We want our leaders praying that they will see students the way Jesus sees them, listen to students the way Jesus listens, and speak to students the way Jesus would speak to them.
Detailed Expectations: Ministry Team Leader
(Ministry Description - Option C)
l. Call
To oversee and care for students involved in a ministry team (such as drama, band, photography, greeting, care-calling, video, etc.). This leadership position would include an encouraging/mentor relationship with the student leader where you set an example for them and guide them in their leadership role.
II. Commitment
Minister to the needs of the ministry team and the ministry team leader.
Contact the student leader for encouragement and be the facilitator of the ministry team.
Aid in the organization of planned ministry events.
Follow-up on the needs of the student leader and help him/her to follow-up on the participants of the team.
Integrate new students into the team.
Be an example to students of a leader who is committed to serving others needs with love. Pray for students to discover the joys of serving.
III. Time Commitment
Each of these ministry teams is different. They will have different commitments, different activities, and different students with different needs. Some of these teams will take on the look and feel of small groups, meeting once a week. Others will be planned events for the community and may only meet once a month. In addition to any student time, all of the high school ministry leaders attend a mandatory monthly staff meeting (2 hours per month).
IV. Character
We need people who consistently pursue an authentic and growing faith in Christ. We want our high school leaders growing spiritually and relying on God’s power and wisdom. We want our leaders praying that they will see students the way Jesus sees them, listen to students the way Jesus listens, and speak to students the way Jesus would speak to them.
How To Become A Youth Ministry Leader: The Application Process
1. Express Interest
You may have an interest, but are unsure where you can help. Some of the most unlikely people make the greatest youth leaders, so take the next step as you prayerfully consider this ministry.
2. Initial Contact By Church Staff
This is an opportunity for us to briefly get to know each other and for us to hear your desire to be involved in students’ lives. We will give you a general overview of the ministry and arrange for you to visit and observe our programs.
3. Receive Youth Ministry Material
This packet gives you the basic information about different areas in our high school ministry, including a list of programs, meeting times and places, and the philosophy behind the programs.
4. Observe Programs
While you are still in the process of completing the application packet, you are encouraged to observe our programs. This is an important opportunity to get a feel for the ministry without having expectations or responsibilities placed on you. You will have a chance to meet students, other staff, and write questions and thoughts for an upcoming meeting. Observing can often be overwhelming or uncomfortable (students don’t typically go out of their way to make you feel welcome until you get to know them). This is a natural feeling and we encourage you to continue observing.
5. Prayerfully Consider Your Commitment
We want you to take time to pray and think through this commitment as well as seek counsel of family and/or friends about your commitment.
6. Complete Application Packet
This application packet was developed with care in order to obtain appropriate information to be used in the selection process. Two references need to be completed. You can choose a 1) pastor 2) close friend and/or 3) an employer within the past year.
7. Interview with Staff
This is an opportunity for you to share thoughts from your observations, describe your spiritual journey, and discuss in more detail your gifts and desires for working in the high school ministry.
8. Follow-up Placement Meeting with Staff Leader
Based on your SHAPE and time availability we will discuss a more specific job description. You will meet with the staff leader in the specific area of ministry that best suits you.
9. Return Signed Commitment Sheet
Once you’ve decided you want to make a commitment, you’ll sign a commitment contract that lays out agreements and expectations for ministry. We will also make sure all of your application material is received.
10. Begin Ministry
This date will vary depending on your involvement and desire. Typically we plug new leaders in three times a year, January, June and September.
11. Participate in 30-Day Check-up Meeting
After your one-month mark, you will meet with someone from the high school ministry staff to evaluate your feelings and perceptions of your involvement. Throughout the year we will continue to evaluate your ministry involvement in order to adjust your role to better fit your style, personality, and strengths.
What You Can Expect From Our Staff
· Structure and leadership
· Encouraging words
· Training and learning opportunities
· Letters of support and direction
· Prayer and support
· Challenges to develop your ministry
Congratulations, you made it through this packet. I know it seems like a lot of information, but through this “process” you will learn valuable information to make your transition into the high school ministry much easier. I hope you will continue on and complete the application and distribute your reference forms. Again if you have any questions or would like additional information, please feel free to contact Jana Tallman at 609-8000.
Volunteer Application
How We Used This. . .
The following is the text (without layout) from our volunteer application. Every person who wants to serve in our youth ministry must fill out this application (it takes about an hour).
General Information
name: today’s date:
address:
date of birth: phone day:
occupation: phone night:
employer:
Work Status: q part time q full time q student
Marital Status: q single q married q divorced
Education
high school: year graduated:
college / trade school: year graduated:
degree: minor:
other education: year graduated:
Personal and Spiritual History
Write a brief testimony about how you became a Christian (include date).
Write briefly about significant events in your life that have impacted you spiritually.
Describe three major ways in which you have grown in your spiritual journey since you became a Christian.
How would you describe your spiritual journey now?
What accountability do you currently have in your spiritual journey?
What do you do when you have a conflict with someone? Would you consider yourself “good” at handling confrontation? How do you handle confrontation?
Are there any special issues or concerns happening in your life right now that would have an impact in your commitment and involvement in the youth ministry? (e.g. relationships, other commitments, etc.)
Legal and Lifestyle Concerns
In caring for students, we believe it is our responsibility to seek an adult staff that is able to provide healthy safe, and nurturing relationships. Please answer the following questions accordingly. Any special concerns can be discussed individual with the pastoral staff.
Are you using illegal drugs? q yes q no
Have you ever gone through treatment for alcohol or drug abuse? q yes q no
If yes, please describe.
What is your view on drinking alcohol?
Have you ever been arrested and / or convicted of a crime? q yes q no
If yes, please describe.
Have you ever had sexual relations with any minor after you became an adult? q yes q no
Have you ever been accused or convicted of any form of child abuse? q yes q no
If yes, please describe.
Have you ever been a victim of any form of child abuse? q yes q no
If yes, would you like to speak to a counselor or pastor? q yes q no
Are you willing to be finger printed for State Criminal Conviction Clearing? q yes q no
Ministry
How long have you attended Saddleback Church? _____ Are you a member? q yes q no
List the date and activities of other ministry experiences here at Saddleback Church, and the reasons for ending that ministry.
| date stated | ministry / activity | date ended | reason |
Describe any other ministry / church experience you have been involved with.
What spiritual gifts do you feel you have, and how would you like to use them in youth ministry?
Why do you want to do youth ministry?
What are some of your expectations of the youth ministry staff?
The information contained in this application is correct to the best of my knowledge. I, the undersigned, give my authorization to Saddleback Valley Community Church or its representatives to release any and all records or information relating to working with minors. Saddleback Church may contact my references and appropriate government agencies as deemed necessary in order to verify my suitability as a youth worker.
I understand that the personal information in this application will be held confidential by the professional Church staff.
signature: ________________________________________________________ today’s date: _______________________
Volunteer Staff Commitment Sheet
How We Used This. . .
Before anyone can join our volunteer staff, he or she must sign this commitment sheet. We have our volunteers sign a new commitment sheet at the beginning of every school year.
Saddleback Church High School Ministry
1998-99 Staff Commitments
After observation of the ministry, time I have spent in prayer, and discussing with my family the commitment involved with being on youth staff, I choose to commit to the following:
q I acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ in my life and I have a personal relationship with Him.
q I am committed toward growing and maturing in my relationship with God through quiet times, active attendance at church, and involvement in accountability.
q I am committed to choices and a lifestyle that are both Godly and "above reproach", knowing that my lifestyle is a model for the students.
q I am making a commitment to the youth ministry for at least the full school year.
q I will attend monthly staff meetings.
q I will make a committed attempt to help recruit at least one other adult volunteer for our growing needs in the high school ministry.
q I commit to memorizing the youth ministry purpose statement.
q I understand the philosophy of this youth ministry and agree with its purpose and commit to shepherding students that God brings to me.
q Because I am making a significant commitment and my presence is important, I agree to be consistent and timely to the program(s) I commit myself to. I also agree to communicate with Mike Howerton if I will be absent.
I am making a commitment to at least one of the following programs:
q Weekend Services - Sat. 6:30 PM … Sun. 9:45 AM … Sun. 11:30 AM
q Area Bible Study - School: _________________________________
q Independent Small Group
q Ministry Team Coordinator - Ministry: ________________________
q Recovery ( Divorce u TNT u Eating Disorder )
q Special Events
Signature:___________________________________________________________ Date: _________________
Planned Values
How We Used This. . .
These planned values reflect the attitudes, styles, and beliefs we think are important for doing relational youth ministry. We make these values known to our leaders to help them minister effectively.
Relational approach
We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. 1 Thes 2:8
Encouragement
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1Thes 5:11
Laughter & celebration
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
Acceptance
My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. James 2:1
Transparency
I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power. 1 Cor 2:3-4
Involvement of Students
Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. 1 Cor 12:14
Outreach
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matt 28:19
Numerical Growth
Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord. Acts 9:31
Spiritual Growth
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity. Heb 6:1
Homelike environment
We who believe are carefully joined together with Christ as parts of a beautiful, constantly growing temple for God. Eph 2:21
Intimate relationships
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16
Professional demeanor
Being respected is more important than having great riches. To be well thought of is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1
Strategic follow-up
Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds. Prov 27:23
Weekend Worship Service Table Leader Ministry Description
Call:
To create and facilitate a comfortable, welcoming table environment during the Weekend Services in which students are recognized and accounted for. Students need to feel loved before they will listen about God’s love.
Gateway to the Next Step: Encourage students to take the next step with their faith. Appropriately encourage students to check out an Area Bible Study.
Commitment:
Arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the service:
Early arrival demonstrates care. Arriving before the students allows the leader to secure a seat and greet students as they walk in.
Be a greeter:
Shake hands, touch and help students to feel that they are welcome and that their presence is valued.
Encourage student interaction:
Introduce students to each other and facilitate group interaction during table games and competitions.
Know Students’ Names:
More than anything else, students love to be known by their name. As our group grows, so does the need for knowing students’ names. Table leadership involves the positive recognition of students by their name.
Help visitors with the information card:
Help the student “seekers” to fill out the information card that places them on our mailing list and attendance sheet.
Model genuine worship during singing:
The genuine worship of believers can witness effectively to seekers. Singing during the worship songs models a true heart after Christ.
Ask students “Will i see you next week?”:
Foster a recognize-level interaction by asking to see them the following week.
Follow-up for regulars:
Write a quick note (3 lines) to the regular students who missed a week and turn it in to the back table so that it can be mailed during the following week.
Respond to noise and disruption:
Encourage students to pay attention and to respect the attention of others to the message.
Make sure students circle their name on the attendance sheet:
Help us to know who made it to the service and who didn’t by encouraging those at the table to circle their name.
Know something about each student:
Establish a recognize-level relationship by making it a point to know something about a student and referring to it throughout the repeated interactions. For instance, sports, projects, recreation activities, etc.
Time Commitment:
Weekly:
Regular attendance at the same high school service each week, arriving 15 minutes early and staying 20 minutes after the service ends to carry on conversation. 15 minutes (during the week) writing notes to the regular students who miss a service.
Monthly:
Attendance at all “All Staff” meetings, which are held on the first Sunday of every month.
Character:
· Love Christ
· Model Christ
· Love High School Students
· Be a Leader
· Be a Pray-er
· Support The High School Ministry And Its Staff
Area Bible Study Ministry Descriptions
See page 94-95 for ABS ministry descriptions.
Ministry Team Leader Ministry Description
Call:
To be responsible for the operation of a ministry team
To care for the students involved in the ministry them
To develop the student leader (or leaders) as ministers
Commitment:
Oversee the planning of ministry events
Have a finger on the pulse of the students involved on the ministry team, and minister to their needs
Troubleshoot ministry problems
Work to hand off as much responsibilities as possible, and get students involved with serving
Integrate new students into the team
Periodic evaluations of the ministry team focus
Time Commitment:
Each of these ministry teams is different. They will have different commitments, different activities, and different students with different needs. Some of these teams will take on the look and feel of small groups, meeting once a week. Others will be planned events for the community and may only meet once a month.
Character:
· Model a Christ-like heart
· Be committed to serving others needs with love
· Be a leader of students
· Constantly be praying for students to DISCOVER the joys of serving
· Guide students to DISCOVER their spiritual gifts
· Be committed to consistency
Table Leader M.I.N.I.S.T.R.Y. Tool
How We Used This. . .
We make this tool available to our volunteers who lead a table at our Weekend Worship Service to help them do a good job.
Table Leaders’ M.I.N.I.S.T.R.Y.
In an attempt to help our Weekend Worship Service become more effective, we need our volunteer ministry staff to help at each of the tables. Below you will see the various responsibilities where we need your help.
MEET STUDENTS
It's crucial that every student is warmly greeted. Actually, I'd like them to be greeted several times. A sincere greeting includes eye contact, using their name in a sentence, and remembering their name throughout the program.
INTERACTION
Work to facilitate interaction so students are talking with one another. Many times, students will sit next to another student without saying a word unless they are forced into opportunity. Also, it's your responsibility to oversee and lead dialogue during any small group or instructed dialogue time.
NEW PEOPLE
When you meet new students take them under your wing--especially if they came alone. Visitors will only return if they felt comfortable and greeted. Take the time to introduce them to other students and adults.
INVITE TO A PROGRAM
Read through the bulletin and be aware of our events--both special events and weekly programs. Our "next-step" program is Area Bible Studies. Invite them to one of our nine areas and make sure the area pastor knows who he/she is.
SIGN IN YOUR TABLE
The only way to make our large group small is to know who is attending and who is missing. We count students because students count. Our strategic follow-up is one of our key values, and it isn’t effective if students don’t sign in.
TOUCH
I want to be very careful how this point is communicated. A welcoming and gentle touch (i.e. hand shake, high-five, hug, etc.) is one way to communicate many of our relational values.
RESPOND TO NOISE AND DISRUPTION
Because of the large number of students there is a natural amount of noise. We need your help. Please express your leadership with grace and truth in order to keep a table quiet. We are comfortable with students leaving the room if they feel they need to continue to talk.
YES MESSAGE
The "yes-message" communicates excitement over a student's presence. It lets them know we are thrilled they’ve joined us and we look forward to seeing them again. Students become theologically aware when they are sociologically comfortable.
Ministry Ideas for the Time Conscious Volunteer
How We Used This. . .
We make this available to our volunteers to provide a little bit of direction as well as options for serving in our ministry.
If you have 15 minutes a week...
· write a note to a student
· make a phone call
· drive a student home
· initiate two 1-on-1 conversations before or after meetings
If you have 30 minutes a week...
· write a note or two to a student
· make a few phone calls
· drive one student home
· initiate two 1-on-1 conversations before or after meetings
· go to thirty minutes of a youth event (sports, drama, etc.)
· have a coke with a kid
· take a student on an errand
If you have two hours a week...
· write some notes to students
· write a letter to a parent
· have lunch with a parent
· go visit a youth event (sports, drama, etc.)
· help someone with their homework
· start a small group
· help us in the office
If you have four hours a week...
· organize a note-writing campaign for adult leaders
· volunteer to help a school team or club
· volunteer to drive to students events
· create a videotape resource library for lessons and talks
· organize and lead a ministry team
If you have ten hours a week...
· read some youth ministry books
· take a Bible class
· wash & wax Doug’s car
If you have twenty or more hours a week...
· get a life
Resource Inventory
How We Used This. . .
We use this inventory to track various resources available from people in our church. This cuts down on the time it takes to track down stuff for trips and events.
Resource Inventory
NAME PHONE
ADDRESS
Do You Have…
Vehicles:
| vantruck | suburbanboat | jet ski/seadooother ____________ |
Camping:
| tentstoves/lanterns | barbecue equipmentwater containers | sleeping bagsother____________ |
Miscellaneous:
| tables (card or other)video equipmentsound equipment | desert homebig screen TVpoolmountain cabin | beach housecontacts with camps or retreatsother____________ |
Would You Be Willing To…
| help coordinate special eventsbuy/make food for eventschaperone special eventsdrive for activitieshelp one weekend per month at the student ministry table | provide office help prior to camps/retreats/eventsvolunteer your home for special eventshost a Bible study in your homebe involved with the Parents of Teens groupother______________________________ |
Would You Be Willing To Help With…
| sewingcomputersconstruction | cookingart/graphicsorganizationtyping | marketingarchitecturebanddesign | musicphotographystage/prop constructionother____________ |
I WOULD LIKE TO HELP WITH LOCATING/GATHERING RESOURCES FROM OTHERS
The High School Ministry thanks you in advance for all your help!
Please mail or fax to: Saddleback Church, Attn: Jana Tallman, 1 Saddleback Pkwy, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Area Bible Study Volunteer Feedback
How We Used This. . .
We use questionnaire periodically to gather feedback from our adult volunteers.
Area Bible Study Feedback
We want to know what’s happening!
Please take a few moments to read these questions and answer them on a scale of 1 to 5.
(1=Awesome! Keep up the good work 5= Let’s try a bit harder)
Make notes where appropriate. Thanks for taking the time. Your opinion is important to us!
Is the Bible study curriculum easy to work with? ______
Do you feel the ABS curriculum is meeting your students’ needs? ______
What percentage of your students are bringing their Bibles? ______
Do you feel the students are digging into God’s word during the Bible study? ______
Are you receiving the curriculum with enough time to do your preparation? ______
Are the students interacting well with the Bible study material?(eg. discussion, questions being asked) ______
Do you see that students enjoy sharing with each other? ______
Are there enough leaders at your ABS? ______ How many more do you need? ______
Are the leaders of your group responding well to the student’s needs? ______
Are the leaders showing a desire to be on time and prepared? ______
Is the home you’re meeting in a good place for small/large group meetings? ______
Are the small group questions moving students towards attainable action steps? ______
Is your small group staying on track with the curriculum? ______
Has there been enough time for your small group to meet? ______
Are you seeing your small group becoming a place of safety and accountability? ______
Do you follow up on the students in your small group who miss ABS? ______
Do you feel that the staff is approachable for you to talk to? ______
How many students in your small group are involved with the HABITS discipleship tools? ______
Have you got any of your students to wash your car yet? ______
What are some topics you’d like to cover in the curriculum? __________________________________
Generally speaking, how is your small group going? ______
Do you feel like you’re being supported as a leader? ______
List the students who are in your small group, put a star next to those who are regulars:
Please use the rest of the space below to share any comments, ideas or HIGHLIGHTS you may have! (Your opinion is important to us!!!)
Anonymous Volunteer Staff Survey
How We Used This. . .
We use this questionnaire to get a feel for the spirituality of our volunteer staff.
Anonymous Youth Ministry Staff Survey
1. I read/study my Bible for personal edification
a. Every day
b. 3-5 times a week
c. 1-3 times a week
d. Every once in a while
e. Rarely
2. I pray
a. Every day
b. 3-5 times a week
c. 1-3 times a week
d. Every once in a while
e. Rarely
3. My quiet time appointments with God are
a. Consistent- same time, same place
b. Regular - shoot for a consistent time
c. Irregular - when I can grab some time
d. Few and far between
e. A rare thing
4. My desire for spiritual maturity is
a. Really strong
b. Important
c. There
d. Lessening all the time
e. Non-existent
5. If I were to characterize my relationship with God, I say it is
a. Vibrant and exciting
b. Growing by leaps and bounds
6. I have totally submitted my life to God
a. Yes
b. Most of the time
c. Not really
7. My lifestyle reflects my submission to God
a. Yes
b. Most of the time
c. Not really
8. I have an intimate relationship with God
a. Yes
b. Most of the time
c. Not really
d. no
9. My purpose is clearly to serve God and follow Him
a. Yes
b. Most of the time
c. Not really
d. no
10. I need help in my spiritual life in the following way(s)
a. Direction/teaching on spiritual disciplines
b. “Tools” to help me mature
c. Relationships with others that challenge my maturity
d. Constant encouragement
e. Accountability
f. Personal discipline
g. Other _______________________________
c. Consistent
d. Stagnant
Fingerprinting Process
How We Used This. . .
The following information is how we established a fingerprinting process.
Because youth ministry should encourage relationships between students and adults, it is our responsibility to seek adult staff who are able to provide healthy, safe, and nurturing relationships. Any ministry working with minors has the potential to attract unhealthy adults who could cause detriment and harm to students and the ministry.
Fingerprinting adults who work with students should be one of several precautionary measures put into your application process. In addition to being informed of any criminal convictions, it tends to discourage deviant individuals from getting involved in your ministry.
How to Establish a Fingerprinting Process:
1. Contact the Department of Justice in your state.
For California: Bureau of Criminal Identification
P.O. Box 903417
Sacramento, CA
(916) 227-3460
Request an application for Authorization to Receive State Summary Criminal History Information.
2. After filling out the application and receiving approval, contact the Record control Section at (916) 227-3834 (CA only) and request Fingerprint Cards. The DOJ will send you a Fingerprint Manual that explains in detail what information you are requesting.
3. You can pick up a fingerprint kit at a police supply store. Ask your congregation if anyone has experience in doing fingerprinting to train you or another staff person. A local non-profit agency dealing with children may be open to training you also.
4. AS AN ALTERNATIVE: You can ask your volunteers to be fingerprinted at a local police department or DMV for a cost of $5 to $20, depending on location. The appropriate fingerprint card is for the Department of Justice. Have your volunteers bring the card to you with the identifying information section filled out.
5. Because of the church's non-profit status, there is no charge for information requests. The information you receive will only be for state criminal convictions (including any child abuse convictions). You will not get any information regarding child abuse reports made against an individual unless they were convicted of charges.
Sample Letter To A Potential Adult Volunteer
How We Used This. . .
This is a letter we sent an adult to invite him to become a volunteer in our youth ministry. Getting names of potential leaders from your students can be a good source of leadership for your ministry. Telling potential leaders that a student suggested them can help calm any anxiety they may have about working with youth.
Dear Dan,
I wanted to write you a quick letter to let you know that you won a popularity contest amongst some of the students at Saddleback Church. I recently asked a few junior highers if they knew of any adults within our church who would be good leaders in our youth ministry. Your name was given with enthusiastic support.
Would you please prayerfully consider joining our youth ministry team? We are always looking for adults who have a love for God and can get excited about spending time with students. If this describes you, I would love to tell you more about our ministry with students and the opportunities available to minister to the students at our church.
I will call you in a week and ask about your interest level. Thanks for taking the time to read this letter, to pray about the ministry, and for being the type of person who students respect.
Blessings,
Doug Fields
Youth Pastor
PS: In case you’re wondering, both Jake Rutenbar and Amy Allen said you would be “great!”
Sample Rejection Letter
How We Used This. . .
This is a letter we sent to an adult who we felt shouldn’t become involved with our ministry.
Dear,
I thought I would drop you a note since we haven’t been able to make contact on the phone. I hope this will help clear up any communication problems or tension. We really want to be pro-active in ministering to the needs of your family as well as developing a strong youth ministry team.
I just want you to know that I prayed for you and your daughter today. It seems like the teenage years are the hardest in family relationships. I’d encourage you to keep seeking counsel on dealing with your daughter and the conflict in hers and your family’s life.
In addition, I do want to address your involvement in the high school ministry. As a minister at Saddleback, I want to help you discover a place where you can minister effectively. I’m in your court and want to help you with that. At this time I do not believe it is the right time for you to be a small group leader at the Area Bible Study or part of the high school staff. I do not believe it is beneficial to our ministry or your daughter if your motivation is just to get her involved. If your daughter does choose to participate in our ministry, then I think she needs to feel the freedom to be there without “mom”. (The majority of kids in our ministry would tell you this.) I also had some concerns with the miscommunication that you and I seemed to have on our various conversations. I am very open to talking with you about these things if you would like. Please feel free to call me. Perhaps we can set up a time to meet.
I know you feel strongly about God’s call and direction on your life and I want to encourage you to keep pursuing that, as well as God’s timing. If you need any counseling referrals, please feel free to call me.
God Bless,
Lynne Ellis
Sample Exit Letter
How We Used This. . .
This is a letter we sent to an adult who we felt needed to leave our ministry.
Dear ,
I wanted to follow up our conversation on Friday with a letter defining what we talked about. Thank you for your honesty and maturity in being willing to discuss the issues you are facing. I appreciate the effort you have put forth in this ministry. As we discussed, the current circumstances in your life will be a deterrent to you in ministry and possibly to a student’s growth and well-being.
Your attitude had been great during this process which speaks of how you are allowing God to work in your life. I do believe that it is the right decision for all of us right now. Although I feel you need to exit this ministry immediately, it would be wise to bring closure to a couple of those students you have connected with. Let them know that you care, but needed to take care of some personal issues.
Please know that I am willing to talk with you again about involvement in the high school ministry when some time has passed and current issues have been cleared up. If you need any counseling referrals or just ministerial contact, please contact me. I do care about your spiritual health and well-being during this time.
God Bless,
Lynne
Volunteer Of The Month Award
How We Used This. . .
In our attempt to encourage our leaders, every month we recognize one of our leaders as people who play an essential role in the youth ministry.
Volunteer of the month
Chris Garten
You are a consistent part of this youth ministry and to the students of Trabuco Hills Area Bible Study. Thank you for choosing to be a godly example, to love students, and to share your time and energy. You are making a difference in students’ lives. We love and appreciate your heart and your investment in students’ lives.
Volunteer Staff Sheet
How We Used This. . .
At our monthly staff meetings, we have our leaders answer the following questions to gather feedback and hold them accountable to personal ministry goals.
Volunteer Staff Sheet
I. My ministry goal for next month is . . .
II. My personal goal for next month is . . .
III. Letters I have written this past month are . . .
IV. Significant conversations I have had this past month are . . .
V. Some prayer requests I have are. . .
VI. You can better help me by. . .
Volunteer Expectations for Driving A Vehicle
How We Used This. . .
We continually try to communicate our expectations to our adult leaders. This resource is something we give to our adults when they’re driving.
Top 10 Things to Remember When Driving
1. Do a complete vehicle safety check before departure.
2. Explain to students the vehicle rules. (This will be explained to you in the pre-drive meeting.)
3. Take a complete count of each person in your vehicle (including yourself). You will need to make a recheck count before you leave each stop during our trip.
4. We will be driving in a standard caravan style.
a. Single file line
b. Headlights on
c. 55 mph (unless stated differently)
5. Do not allow students to leave vehicle unless head leaders indicate that it is okay!
6. Be sure you hear directions and communicate all directions clearly. (e.g. Departure times, rules, potty breaks, etc.)
7. Be sure to keep the van that is directly behind you in view at all times! We only go as fast as the last vehicle in the caravan.
8. In case of an emergency, flash your high beams at the van in front of you. Please pull over, when safe, immediately to the right. Let no one out of vehicle unless vehicle is unsafe!
9. Please keep students from throwing stuff out the window or hanging body parts out of the window.
10. In case of an emergency or if you get lost, please stay in one location and call (949) 609-8000. Leave a message with both your phone number and location.
Have a great trip!
Please ask your trip leader any questions you may have!
Top 10 Myths About Being A Great Volunteer Youth Worker
How We Used This. . .
This top ten list is great for dispelling the fears of potential volunteers and encouraging veterans who feel ineffective.
Top 10 Myths About Being A Great Volunteer Youth Worker
1. You must know what's going on in youth ministry at all times.
2. You must have adequate training and be equipped to teach the Bible.
3. You must feel needed at all times.
4. You must always feel comfortable.
5. You must be one of the kids.
6. You must have plenty of free time.
7. You must feel secure.
8. You must be wild, crazy, and dynamic.
9. You must be liked by all the kids and parents.
10. You must command respect from kids, parents, and the church staff.
Youth ministry is not comfortable! It's not easy! But it is normal and okay to feel inadequate about your skills. Your confidence will grow the longer you do ministry and you see how God can use inadequate people to do great things.
Potential Volunteer Flyer
How We Used This. . .
We put this flyer in the adult service bulletin to communicate our need for leaders to the congregation.
Do You . . .
Have a pulse?
Love God?
Like Teenagers?**
Our Youth Ministry Needs You!!
** Even if you DON’T like teenagers!
We’re looking for adults to join our team in three areas:
ü Hands On Team--Adults willing to invest in students and attend one of our weekly programs. Students need relationships with adults, do you have one to offer?
ü Resource Team--Do you have a tent? A boat? A van? Would you like to help with our special events? Do you have any special skills to offer?
ü Prayer Team--Tired of standing? We need people on their knees for our youth ministry.
Name: ________________ Phone: _______________
Volunteer Staff Meeting Agenda - 2 Hour Meeting
Prayer
Sharing
Ministry Highlights
“What’s been going well?”
Area Bible Study Reports
Spiritual Encouragement, Bible Study, or Devotional
Specific Training (optional)
Prayer groups
Personal
Administration
Volunteer of the Month
Calendar Update
Planning
Follow-up delegation
Free Email Letter
How We Used This. . .
We gave this letter to our volunteers (along with a disk) to encourage them to get an email address. The disk contained a free email program that is located at www.juno.com.
Free Email!
Electronic mail is to this decade what the fax machine was to the last: a communication tool that has suddenly become an indispensable part of millions of people's lives. Some 60 million computer users worldwide are currently estimated to exchange more than a billion e-mail messages each month, and these numbers are growing as explosively as the Internet itself.
Until now, however, if you wanted an e-mail address for your personal use and weren't already at a university or company that supplied you with one, you had to rent one, usually bundled together with a package of other services, from an Internet access provider or an online service. Such companies typically charge their subscribers more than $200 per year, and if you don't keep paying, you lose your e-mail account.
Juno aims to change all that. Juno provides e-mail service to anyone with access to a personal computer and a modem, and it provides this service at no cost to its members. To take advantage of the free service, members just have to install on their computers a software package developed by Juno [Included on the disk, and is available from their website: www.juno.com]. The initial version of this software package runs on PC-compatible computers under Microsoft's Windows operating system. Juno members do not need to already have any form of Internet access in order to use Juno.
Since the Juno service launched on April 22, 1996, more than 3 million people have created free Internet e-mail accounts through Juno. A new Juno account is created every ten seconds.
Your cost to have an email address is nearly nothing, you pay only for the local phone call to Irvine or Santa Ana.
System Requirements
Please note our minimum system requirements:
You'll need at least a 386 PC, 4 MB of RAM, 15 MB of free disk space, Windows® 3.1, a 9600-baud modem, and a VGA monitor. Juno does not operate over ISDN, LANs, or network connections, and we do not have DOS or Macintosh versions of the software. (We do not currently plan to develop such versions.)
Installation Instructions
Insert the floppy disk into the drive.
In Windows 95:
click on the “Start” button
click on “Run”
type (without quotes) “a:\install.exe”
Follow the on screen instructions
In Windows 3.1:
Within the Program Manager, click on “File”
click on “Run”
type (without quotes) “a:\install.exe”
Follow the on screen instructions
Volunteer Training For Area Bible Study Small Groups
How We Used This. . .
This resource is the material we use to train our volunteers for our Area Bible Study small groups. We do this training once a year, right before school starts.
What We Want To Accomplish At Area Bible Studies:
Personal Level - Relying on the Power of God
I Thessalonians 2:8
Purpose Level - Why We’re Doing Area Bible Studies
Purpose and Potential Audience: Fellowship and the Congregation
What Students Get from a Small Group
Applying Our Planned Values
Gateway: The Next Step—The HABITS of a Committed Christian
Practical Level - How To Minister At Area Bible Studies
Understanding Our Roles
small group leader
teacher
ABS Point-Person
Division Leader
The Bible Study: Time Table and Curriculum
Defining Some Small Group Boundaries
Small Group Skills
Some Basic Small Group Skills
Working with different personalities in your small group
Teaching Different Kinds of Truth
Thoughts on Encouraging Others
Maintaining a Family Friendly Area Bible Study
Personal Level
Relying on the Power of God
Leadership Skills and Godliness
There can be no doubt that our Savior picked normal, “run of the mill” people to build his church. Most of his disciples were unschooled “blue-collar” types, and it was these regular people who changed the world for eternity. Even though Paul was highly trained as a teacher, not even he relied on his training: Paul knew that the best way to impact lives was to rely on the power of God (see 1 Cor 2:4).
When he was on earth, Jesus was a master teacher, and skills are important. However, skills must be seen in their proper light--they are secondary to being godly.
You don’t need to know all the right answers about God; you just need be right before God.
I Thessalonians 2:8
We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.
This verse describes what ministry looks like when the heart is right before God:
| We loved you so much | Ministry without a pure heart is empty: ministry must be an expression of the love in our hearts for students. |
| That we were delighted | There is nothing wrong with feeling good because we are ministering to students. We decide WHAT things will give us joy, and we should train ourselves to delight in serving students. |
| to share with you | Sharing is exactly what we are doing . . . we can’t force students to take what we have to offer. |
| not only the gospel of God | Our shared gift to students is nothing less than the very gospel of God. We know the truth and we offer this to students. The purpose of the gospel is to create growing relationships with God. |
| But our lives as well, | We are not simply college professors; we offer much more than cold truth and hard facts. We must make large investments in relationships without worrying about the interest and return. |
| because you had become so dear | The goal of ABS is for your students to become “dear” to you. Remember that “becoming” is a long road paved with hard effort. |
| to us. | There are no lone rangers in healthy youth ministry; remember that you are a part of a team; rely on them and be reliable. |
Purpose Level
Why We’re Doing Area Bible Studies
Purpose and Potential Audience: Fellowship and the Congregation
The primary purpose for Area Bible Studies is fellowship (connect). Our greatest desire for ABS is that it is a place where believing students can connect with one another and adults. We do ABS to make our large group smaller; we want students to create and maintain meaningful relationships.
The secondary purpose for ABS is discipleship (grow). Every week, we will study and discuss Biblical passages. A portion of the small group time will be devoted to the application of Biblical truths to our lives. ABS is not classroom (all learning), nor is it a party (all play). ABS is a place for students to form relationships, with others and with God.
The potential audience we try to target with an ABS is our congregation students. Congregation students are at a point in their spiritual life where they are committed to a relationship with Christ and other believers. You may have other types of students (e.g. non-believers) show up; that’s ok. Since ABS is a program designed for believers, chances are a non-believing student will eventually become a Christian or drop out.
What Students Get From Small Groups
Every weekend we have hundreds of students who attend our Weekend Worship Service, and it’s impossible to touch, greet, and talk to everyone. The Weekend Worship Service is not a program to form the meaningful relationships students need. We try to respond to this issue through ABS, where our large group becomes smaller. Here are four benefits students receive from a small group:
1. Students are known
2. Students are verbal
3. Students are accountable
4. Students get personalized application of biblical truths to their lives.
Applying Our Planned Values
Relational Approach
Set a goal to have a serious conversation with every student in your small group once a month.
Encouragement
Praise good questions, thoughts, and answers . . . don’t shut out “dumb” comments.
Laughter & celebration
ABS isn’t going to be a comedy show, but on the other hand, it shouldn’t be a funeral.
Acceptance
Accept students for who they are and where they’re at.
Transparency
This is the PRIME arena to be real: admit your confusion to some questions, share your personal struggles, be yourself.
Involvement of students
Students should be doing 75% of the talking, and leaders 100% of the listening.
Outreach
Pray for non-believers; share concerns and experiences with non-Christian friends.
Numerical growth
Healthy Area Bible Studies will attract other students.
Spiritual growth
Your relational investments will open up the avenue for spiritual growth.
Homelike environment
When students return from missing a couple of weeks say, “It’s great to see you back.”
Intimate relationships
Your consistency allows trust to develop. Intimacy takes time and commitment.
Professional demeanor
Be conscious of parents’ perceptions and host home families.
Strategic follow up
Make it a goal to write your small group once a month, and call students who miss.
Gateway: the Next Step—The HABITS of a committed Christian
You’re probably familiar with the baseball diamond, our intended path for spiritual growth. Most students at ABS are congregation students, committed to a relationship with Christ and others. Within the context of your small group, we want to be continually challenging students to take the next step in their faith: to become committed to growing on their own in their faith (this is the definition of a “committed” student). We want students to develop personal habits that will help them grow in their faith.
To help these students grow in their own in their faith, we have created the HABITS discipleship tools. These tools are free, and are available at every Weekend Worship Service (the ABS “leader” for your ABS should have some tools as well). It would be good for you to know what the HABITS are, and to practice them in your own life.
Habit Tool
Hang time with God Quiet Time Journal
Accountability with another believer SAG 5 (student accountability group)
Bible memorization Hidden Treasures
Involvement with the church body Going to “Big” Church
Tithing commitment Bank of Blessings
Study the Bible RootWorks
Practical Level
How To Minister At Area Bible Studies
Understanding Our Roles
Each Area Bible Study has three vital roles designed to fulfill the purpose. These roles are: 1) Small Group Leader 2) Teacher and 3) “ABS Leader.” Teachers and “ABS Leaders” are really Small Group Leaders with extra responsibilities.
All ABS staff are Small Group Leaders
All Teachers and ABS Leaders are a Small Group Leaders
Not every Small Group Leader is a Teacher or ABS Point-Person
Small Group Leader
The Small Group Leader is the heartbeat of the Area Bible Study. Small Groups are where the real ministry takes place and the Small Group Leader is responsible for pastoring and caring for the students in his or her small group.
Make a goal to write every student in your Small Group at least once a month. Try to see them outside of Area Bible Study. This will take your ministry and relationship to a whole new level. Visit them at work, go to a sporting event or competition, meet them for coffee, etc.
What To Do During Small Group Time
Remember: in small groups, students are known, verbal, accountable, and personal (apply truth to their personal lives). This is the time for you to dig in and get to know your students and let them know you. Here are four general things to do during small group time (we’ll get to some specifics later):
1. Answer any questions or discuss the lesson taught during the large group time. It’s easier to ask a question in a small group; one of your students may have had a question during the first hour of ABS but neglected to ask it.
2. Work through and discuss the Small Group study question (found in the leader’s guide). Usually, each lesson will contain an additional Biblical passage with questions for your small group.
3. Work through some personal applications of the principles studied during the Bible Study.
4. Share prayer requests. Write these down and follow up on previous requests. Pray together for one another.
DON’T TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT. Some small groups go straight to prayer requests and sharing. This is not necessarily the best thing for your students’ spiritual growth.
END A FEW MINUTES BEORE 9:00 PM. Reasons: a) Parents like to have their kids home early on a school night b) The host home staff would like to begin rebuilding their home and c) You need to work early in the morning.
ABS Teacher
The Teacher is responsible for running, directing, and setting the pace for the Area Bible Study. The teacher’s role is the most visible because he or she will be “up front” making sure everything happens. Although all leaders will help, the teacher is responsible for running the program, for moving the group along.
The teacher will need to take extra preparation time. It will probably take 1 to 1 1/2 hours to become familiar with each lesson. Each lesson in the leader’s guide will have specific directions for facilitating the lesson.
The teacher will need to keep an eye on the time. Don’t camp out in one section of the lesson for too long; be sensitive to God’s Spirit.
Remember the primary purpose for ABS: fellowship (connect). Make time for small groups; don’t wait until the last 20 minutes to break into small groups.
ABS Point-Person
The ABS Point-Person is to make sure every small group leader feels supported and that every student is connected. Whereas the Teacher’s role is “formal,” the ABS Leader’s role is more informal. Below is a list of responsibilities and expectations:
Responsibilities
Pastor (i.e., empower, encourage, love-on, and motivate) the small group leaders of your ABS. Lend vision and direction. Know how your leaders are doing, have a finger on the “pulse” of their ministry.
Encourage small group leaders to do effective follow-up and care for each member of their small group. Lead in the area of follow up by making sure your students feel cared for. The ABS Point-Person does not have to do all the follow up—and shouldn’t—just make sure it gets done.
Encourage the “culture” of our maturity process with two key concepts:
a) “The HABITS Discipleship tools”--Looking inward to grow
b) “Friendship Evangelism”--Looking outward to reach our friends
Encourage and create an environment of belonging and family, where students can grow in their faith.
Oversee the assimilation of new students, helping them to connect.
Oversee the follow up and care of missing students, helping them to re-connect.
Oversee/provide leadership to the small group “boundaries,” deciding and orchestrating small group splits.
The Division Leader
Due to the incredible growth of the ABS, we have created some Division Leaders to help manage all of the leaders. Each Division Leader will be responsible for the leaders at 3 to 4 different Area Bible Studies. If you have a question, problem, concern, crisis, conflict, or just want to talk, then go first to your ABS Leader, next to your Division Leader, and finally to Mike Howerton. If you have questions about the curriculum or want to make fun of the typos, them talk to Matt McGill (them was on purpose).
The Bible Study: Time Table and Curriculum
The typical night at an ABS will look like:
| Time | Action | Lasts For |
| 6:45 | Leaders Arrive (be on time!) | 10 minutes |
| 7:00 | Students Arrive | 20 minutes |
| 7:15 | Greeting and Announcements | 5 minutes |
| 7:20 | Teach Introduction | 10 minutes |
| 7:30 | Break into Teaching Groups | 15 minutes |
| 7:45 | Return to Large Group; Teaching Groups Share | 20 minutes |
| 8:05 | Break into Small Groups | 45 minutes |
| 8:50 | End Small Group Time | 10 minutes |
| 9:00 | Students Go Home. | 1 week |
Although the Teacher is responsible for the program, for making the schedule happen, all of the leaders will need to help.
Curriculum
This year we will be using the One Minute Bible (OMB), and we will adapt the curriculum that corresponds to the OMB. We will encourage students to buy the Bible, but money will not be an issue for any student who cannot buy one. We will also provide all of the leaders with OMB.
The OMB consists of 365 one-minute readings, each with a short commentary written by Doug. The OMB covers all of the important passages of Scripture and is an excellent overview and introduction to the Bible. For each week’s worth of readings, the curriculum picks one day for its lesson.
Defining Some Small Group Boundaries
It is important to define some basic boundaries for small groups to provide clarity and direction. These boundaries are guidelines and not unbreakable laws (with only one exception, see below). These boundaries will help eliminate confusion and create small groups. The ABS Point-Person will be responsible for applying these guidelines to his or her specific ABS.
Small groups will be same sex (This is the only unbreakable “law.”)
The best size is 3 to 5 students
Depending on the consistency of students’ attending and available leadership:
The earliest time to split is 8 students
The latest time to split a small group is at 16 students
When splitting a small group, it can be done along the lines of natural friendships, grade, or school, but arbitrary splitting can work (depending on “setup” of the splitting and the attitudes)
Small Group Skills
Godliness is more important that skills; however being skilled is not unimportant. Here are some guidelines to help you be a better small group leader.
Some Basic Small Group Skills
Do not be afraid of silence. Let the students sit for a moment and think.
Value student input. Do whatever it takes to affirm the comments of student input, but do not be fake or sound fake. Be delicate with answers which are clearly wrong (You probably don’t want to put a big red “idiot” stamp on their forehead . . . even if they are.) Do not feel like you have to finish, complete, or correct a student’s answer.
Don’t feel like you have to know all the answers. We are human, and it is good for your students to see that you are limited. You are and most of them don’t think so.
Don’t read questions off the leader’s guide. Understand the questions and be prepared to ask them in your own terms. Feel free to generate your own questions during your preparation AND even “on the spot.”
Never talk more than the students. Ask questions to generate discussion, and ask students to explain their answers and go into more depth.
Ask students if they have questions. This will give you a good feel for the group dynamic.
Echo input. If a student’s answer or input is long-winded or unclear, repeat it back for clarity. This proves you are listening to him or her and it keeps the attention of the rest of the group.
Don’t move to a new question too quickly. After a student answers a question, ask, “Would anyone like to add to that?”
Keep the group focused and on purpose. Don’t leave the topics and passages of the night’s lesson unless something “big time” comes up (e.g. a family crisis). Be sensitive to the Spirit.
Communicate and maintain confidentiality. This allows students to open up; however, don’t keep potentially dangerous information to yourself.
Don’t be discouraged . . . if you don’t have enough students for your own small group.
Don’t be discouraged . . . if you have a “bad night.” There’s not a small group leader alive in the world who hasn’t had bad nights.
Don’t go to a small group if your small group doesn’t show up. This is a rare occurrence after the year gets going. Don’t overwhelm a small group of 3 guys with two leaders. Spend the small group time in prayer and writing letters.
Working With Different Personalities in Your Small Group
[Note: The following material was created by Doug Fields and the Youth Specialties Resource Seminar development team.]
You know what it’s like watching the individual personalities in a small group emerge -- even if the small group is a family. Your challenge as a small-group leader is to learn to work with the personalities in your small group and help all your students grow individually even as they learn to function as a group.
Here are six types of student personalities, most of which you’ll meet in a typical small group of teenagers. The aim isn’t to stereotype students, but to forewarn you of common traits and characteristics you’ll encounter in your small group -- and then to help you find ways to minister more effectively to them.
The Talker
Description: This is the student in your small group who never stops talking, who always has a comment for everything. You’re tempted to apply duct tape, but don’t -- there are more productive ways to handle this student.
Possible Solutions: First, position the Talker next to you when you begin your group, which reduces eye contact with her when you ask a question -- and when she interrupts someone, lets you reach over and touch her arm (usually a silent but effective cue). If you have a whole group of Talkers, you may want to try the ground rule that stipulates that the small group must circulate an object -- a stuffed animal, Nerf Ball, spit wad, whatever -- and that a student must possess it before speaking. This will help Talkers wait their turn.
Chances are, the Talker has some natural leadership ability that you should encourage. So let her lead the small group now and then. This can help her appreciate what you endure as a leader, and she just may become more supportive when you lead.
If the problem persists, get some time alone with her and talk with her about giving others a chance to answer the questions. Help her feel that she’s on your team, and that the two of you need to work together to encourage the other students to respond.
The Thinker
This student is quieter (and usually shier) than the others, with a tendency to get drowned out by the louder personalities in your group. So bring him out more by positioning him across from you, to increase the chances of eye contact with you. You can also use the tried-and-true method of occasionally directing questions to specific students, thereby eliciting responses from the Thinker.
If the Thinker is particularly shy, spend one-on-one time with him to discover what he’s interested in -- and so you can create the kinds of questions that will bring him into the discussion. Use the positive reinforcement of affirming him on those occasions when he actually does respond publicly. And when he lapses back into silence, don’t interpret that silence as something that needs to be fixed. Some kids just learn by listening and watching -- and there’s a good chance he’s one of them.
The Church Kid
This kid has already spent more hours in this church than you probably have. She’s progressed from the church nursery to the high school room in the course of her 14 or 15 years there. She consequently knows more about the Bible than any other kid in youth group, not to mention her small group. Of course, her knowledge may or may not indicate spiritual depth.
Church Kids can be the hardest to reach because they’ve heard it all, and therefore feel they have nothing to learn. One way to challenge them is by not being satisfied with pat answers. Always ask why. Or play devil’s advocate by countering her squeaky-clean, correct answers with provocative arguments from the “wrong” side of the issue. Such strategies usually work for a Church Kid to think more deeply about her answers instead of just rattling them off.
Ask her to help you create questions for a Bible Study -- or even let her lead the small group once in a while. In any case, avoid asking questions that invite a “right” answer. Opt instead for question that leave room for a variety of valid responses.
The Distracter
This is the student who can’t sit still and ends up distracting everyone in your small group -- including you. Rather than constantly stifling him, direct his energy toward productive ends: ask him to help you pass out Bibles, set up chairs, serve refreshments. Or (and this is good advice for all small groups, with or without Distracters) do some active-learning experiences with your small group -- like object lessons or field trips -- instead of just sitting and talking week after week.
You may better understand this student (and where his energy comes from) if you get together with him outside of your small group. Even a Distracter can be good for your small group, if only because he doesn’t let you get by with boring Bible studies. (Remember that when you’re tempted to quit.) Really -- your leadership skills will be sharpened as you find ways to engage him as well as the tranquil students in your lesson.
The Debater
She irritates you by challenging every point you (or anyone else) tries to make. Sure she brings a creative energy to the group sometimes, but she often stifles the other kids by making them feel too threatened to voice their opinions or feelings.
Deal with the Debater by establishing ground rules for you small group, (the first and perhaps the only) being: It’s okay to disagree with opinions, but it is inappropriate to attack or put down other small-group members if their opinions differ from yours. A second ground rule may be that only one person may talk at a time. Ground rules like these help make a Debater’s criticism less caustic and restrains her from interrupting others in order to make her point.
The good news: once Debaters understand and abide by such rules, their input can actually enliven your discussion. Just
remember that your goal is to direct, not stifle, their participation.
The Crisis Producer
This student is in perpetual crisis -- and lets your small group know about it every meeting. He’s often self-absorbed and therefore unable to participate in the discussion, except when it’s focused on him. So get together with him before your small group begins in order to talk through his problems with just you instead of bringing them to the small group. (Lucky you.) Or begin your small-group discussion with the assurance that everyone will have a chance to share problems, prayer requests, etc., at the end of the group. This helps members -- and especially Crisis Producers -- stay focused on your Bible study.
Whatever your strategy with your Crisis Producer, your long-term goal is to help him see past his crises to some solutions, and then to participate in your small group without having to constantly bring the focus back to himself.
What about a student who raises a legitimate crisis during the discussion? Be flexible enough to postpone your study and deal with the issue at hand.
Teaching Different Kinds of Truth
A good teacher can communicate truth well. Understanding different “kinds” of truth can help you be a better teacher. Below is a passage from Mark 4:35-41. From this passage, we will draw out three “kinds” of truth we will teach at Area Bible Studies.
35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!" Mark 4:35-41
Historical truths . . .
. . . are events or sequences of events which happened in the past. Although historical truths may be interesting, they do not always apply to life today, nor are meaningful for the point you want to make.
For Example: Irrelevant historical truth: Jesus slept on a cushion.
For Example: Relevant historical truth: Jesus calmed the storm.
Principles . . .
. . . are “transferable” truths which reach across time and culture.
For Example: Jesus, Son of God, has absolute control over the weather.
Applications . . .
. . . are meaningful truths which can and should be applied to every day life.
For Example: If Jesus could calm the winds and the waves of the storm, imagine what he can do with the storms in your life. Trust Jesus to care for you in the midst of Life’s Storms.
Thoughts on Encouraging Others
Encouragement means to build up. There aren’t many positive elements in a typical high school day. Broken homes, cutting words, and shallow friendships are far too common. Here are three ideas for encouraging students in areas where it’s really needed:
Encourage Community
We need to do everything possible to bring new students into the ABS community. We must accept them where they are, no matter what their maturity level might be. Students need encouragement to connect to other students and staff in the ABS. They need to feel connected so they have a place to share their thoughts, feelings, fears, ideas, and life circumstances.
Encourage Spiritual Growth
People respond to challenges. Make the most of the opportunities that will be afforded to you by your time with students. You don’t need to hammer students into the ground with guilt, but you should carefully push them forward in their faith.
Encourage through the Failures
Life is difficult for high school students. Many of them have a rough home life and are surrounded by terrible situations. Your students will fail in their faith (who doesn’t?) and will need your help to get back up.
Maintaining a Family-Friendly Area Bible Study
Each ABS host home is a tremendous gift from God to our High School Ministry. We could not facilitate ABS without their hospitality. For the observers of our ministry, perception is reality. How they perceive our ministry will determine their attitudes about our ministry. The following ideas are some helpful guidelines for maintaining a family-friendly ABS:
1. Be finished by 9:00 PM. Serving in a ministry is a privilege, but we don’t want to burn out our staff or our host homes. Parents also like to have children home at a decent time.
2. Hang out in the door or entry way to tell students goodbye, and to greet parents who pick up their children if you can. Being visible is makes you available to parents if they have any questions.
3. Try to leave the host home even cleaner and in better condition than when you arrived. This means returning any furniture that was moved back to its original location. Send a crew of students through the house to pick up any Taco Bell wrappers or loose Starbursts that have been forgotten.
4. Be aware of any special concerns your host home may have.
5. Be wise when it comes to physical play, wrestling, rough-housing, tag, etc. Most homes aren’t constructed like a gym, so these things should not be overly encouraged. When the students leave, they should be reasonably quiet so as not to disturb the neighbors.
Volunteer Training For Ministry Team Leaders
How We Used This. . .
This resource is the material (without layout) we use to train our volunteers to be ministry team leaders. After reading this, if a volunteer wants to lead a ministry team, we sit down his him or her to answer any questions and get them started.
To All Volunteers Who Are Considering Being a Ministry Team Leader:
Why should students be involved in ministry?
Understanding ministry is easy: ministry is meeting needs with love. Everyone can do ministry! It is our belief that if they get involved and serve in a ministry now they will be in the habit and serve forever! We want them to find the joy of participating in a ministry.
Anyone who attends our High School Ministry for any length of time without hearing about the need to have a ministry has missed out on one of the major values of our ministry. We exist to graduate ministers from our High School ministry. If we graduate attendees we have fallen short of our goal. If someone attends our ministry and simply SITS and just SOAKS in the messages without SERVING we believe their faith will SOUR and their spiritual life will SUFFER.
How You Can Help Make This Happen
1. Choose a ministry team.
Start by choosing the ministry team you want to lead. Choose something that fits the SHAPE God has created you with. If you’re willing to serve anywhere, we can let you know our greatest areas of need for leaders.
For example: I’ve chosen to be the ministry leader of the Bellis Home Ministry (a home for disabled children).
2. Contact the student leader.
· Talk about the goal/ purpose of the ministry.
· Ask if a Bible study/Devotion is an option?. Once a week, once a month? Not at all?
· Plan at least ONE monthly meeting with entire ministry team.
· Plan at least ONE monthly event pertaining to the ministry team.
· Be in contact with the Student Leader once a week, for encouragement, and planning ideas.
I contact Jessica Joseph once a week to encourage her and to talk about what our ministry should do for the next month’s activity. Our group does not meet for Bible study. We meet all together once a month: we pray before the activity and meet after the event to debrief the experience. I also call Jessica to discuss how she thought the event went, what we can do better, what went well, etc.
3. You will need to hold the hand of the student leader.
That means that you will have to get the ministry team from point A to point B. For a while you will be the model. You do, student watches. You do, with the student. You watch, student does.
In the beginning I planned the activity while Jessica watched. I called the director of the home, all the students, and got all the crafts together while she watched and I kept her informed. Then just recently we planned an activity together. I called the director while she called all of the students. It was a 50-50 split of responsibility. She did GREAT! So this month I asked Jessica to call the director of the home, and all the students and then together we planned a craft to do on that day, a place to meet, and I’ll provide to transportation (always). Next month she’ll take just a little more responsibility than before. Except for the transportation part, which will always be the adult’s responsibility.
4. Plan ministry events.
You and the student leader should come up with some ministry opportunities with the others in your team. The first events will most likely be your ideas and your planning. On the next page you’ll find some ideas to help you plan events.
5. Follow up.
This is a very important element of your ministry: caring for your students. Just like planning an event, this will be your responsibility at first and then should be the student leader’s responsibility. All the students who have signed up to participate in the ministry should be contacted before and after an event with a letter and/or a phone call. Some may want to continue with the ministry and you may find that some don’t. You’ll want to contact them before to inform them of what’s going on with the ministry team, and then after an event to thank them for their participation and to encourage them.
Here is a Leadership Principle: Good leaders ask themselves this question: What is it I am doing that a student could be doing?
6. Integrating new students.
We want students to have an open invitation to join a ministry at any time. This is going to keep you flexible and to “stay on your toes”. Periodically I will give you and updated list of the students, old and new, in your ministry to be contacted. Remember you are the key to helping them serve. If you don’t contact them and love on them they just might not get it. New students need a little more lovin’ so they feel a part of the group. It’s hard to come into a group that has already started, especially if the group is close and has been together for awhile. So make sure they get contacted!!
Where do these new students come from? There are many ways to generate new students. Advertising from up front at the Weekend Worship Service is one way, sending out a mailer is another, but the best way is for YOU to ASK students to join your ministry. If you are excited about something it is always easier to get others to join in on what you are doing. These ministry teams are no different. Talk ‘em up, tell your ABS, tell your neighbor, talk to your vet’s little sister’s cousin. YOU are the best way to keep your ministry growing!
Taking the Next Step:
If you’re interested in being a leader for a ministry team, then let me know. We’ll sit down and talk in detail about your leadership. My role in all of this is to encourage and support YOU! If you need anything from me--advice, ideas, supplies, phone numbers, love, a hug--I’ll be there for YOU! You are a vital being in this ministry! You are GREAT! Thanks for your loving, sharing heart!
“Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus...” Acts 20:24 (LB)
Love,
Amanda Korte
Planning A Special Event
How We Used This. . .
This resource is the material we give to our volunteers who want to run their own special event.
Everything A Volunteer Needs To Know To Plan A Trip Or Special Event
We are thrilled you want to plan an event. It seems overwhelming at first with all the details, but this step-by-step guide should help cut out the frustration. We want to support you in this process and help you succeed in your dreaming, planning, and making your event happen successfully!
Prior To Trip/Event
1. Pick Event/Trip And Establish Date With Staff Point Person.
You may need to gather information in order to this. Check existing calendar dates, availability of places to go, etc. Time Frame: 2 months prior
2. Create Your Budget And Submit To Staff Point Person.
Expense items should include: lodging, transportation rental/gas, food, equipment costs, program costs (if any), film and developing, and pad your budget with $30 - $50 misc. Expense your costs for total number of participants (which includes leaders), then divide by the number of students you think will attend. That establishes the cost of the event. Time Frame: 6 weeks prior
3. Sign Contracts And Deal With Insurance Needs Regarding Trip.
Make sure staff point person is contacted. Time Frame: 6 weeks prior
4. Create Your Publicity.
You can do this on your own or draw something up on a piece of paper with all the necessary information and we can do it in the office. In order to utilize office personnel and printing, the publicity needs to be done 5 weeks prior to event. Time Frame: 5 weeks prior
5. Establish Registration Procedures.
Decide who will collect sign-ups and distribute information. If registration forms and money needs to run through church office, set that up with staff point person ahead of time. Time Frame: 4 weeks prior
6. Promote, Promote, Promote.
Keep looking for creative ways to promote your program. Some ideas may be midweek, small group announcements, Sunday a.m. skit, picking students to promote, etc. It is up to you to take the initiative. Time Frame: continual until trip is full or one week prior
7. Find Volunteers To Attend.
Establish how many staff you need or can take and start recruiting. If you want to write a letter, we can run it off in the office and send it out on our staff mailing list. Time Frame: 3 - 4 weeks prior
8. Plan Program Schedule.
If it is a trip to Magic Mountain, this isn’t applicable. If you are planning an overnighter, things to consider would be topics and speaker, small group time, music, audio needs, hand-outs, etc. Time Frame: 3 weeks prior
9. Plan Food Menu.
Plan menu and shopping day. You will need to notify the staff point person the week before you shop of how much money you will need, so a check request can be submitted. Time Frame: 2 weeks prior
10. Confirm Transportation, Facility And Program Components.
This is very important. Make maps for drivers. Call on the facilities and check with anyone you have delegated items to. There are always last minute glitches to deal with. Contact staff point person for any concerns or just to update progress of the trip. Time Frame: week prior
During The Trip/Event
Enjoy! Just know you will still get a gazillion questions about who, what, when and were.
After The Trip/Event
1. Evaluate.
Write down what was great and what can make it better for next year.
2. Close Budget.
Turn in receipts, gas cards, any collected money, etc. Refigure expenses and income and turn in to the staff point person.
3. Thank yous.
Write thank you notes to anyone who may have helped--staff, drivers, any vehicles borrowed, etc.
resources for
FAMILY MINISTRY
Incoming Freshmen Parents Orientation
How We Used This. . .
This resource is the material from an orientation meeting we do for incoming freshmen parents. This packet contains general information about our youth ministry.
(Cover Letter)
Greetings Parents!
Thanks for taking some time out of your busy schedule to attend this meeting!
Over the last 15 years of working with high school students, I’ve found that one of the most difficult hurdles to overcome is the transition from junior high to high school. For many students, they never get to experience all that our high school ministry offers because they didn’t make it through the first year. I want you to know that I’m very concerned about getting your son/daughter involved in our ministry and want to help in whatever way I can.
As you settle into your chair and wait for our meeting to begin, I want to share with you the five words I spoke to the graduating 8th graders at their graduation Luau. They were FEAR, FUN, FAITH, FINISH, and FRIENDS.
FEAR: I told them that the transition from being the “big shot” in a group to being the youngest in the group is scary. I wanted them to know that their feelings are natural and real. It is scary walking into a room of students who look old.
FUN: I explained that our high school ministry is fun. We want people to have a good time when they come into our ministry. “Laughter” and “celebration” are two key words we use to describe this value of fun. Most students use the word “boring” when they describe church and because of this, we attempt to shatter the stereotype that church is boring. You may hear of some wild things over the next four years and chances are good they were planned (although some wild things happen that weren’t planned, which can sometimes be bad).
FAITH: Our primary goal is to help your child mature in his/her faith. We have a defined strategy with quality programs that assists students in their spiritual growth. Our goal is the same goal God has for all Christians and that is to grow into the likeness of Jesus Christ. I want to emphasize the word “assist” because I know that one’s spiritual growth isn’t solely dependent our on high school ministry. I believe, with all my heart, that we have some of the best teaching, curriculum, discussion groups, practical tools, and growth opportunities of any high school ministry around. If a student wants to grow in his/her faith, we can help at any level.
FINISH: I want to see students finish their high school years strong in their faith. Our leadership team is affirmed when our graduating seniors have strong convictions about their faith, lifestyles that reflects their convictions, and plans to serve God through doing ministry. Four years is a long time to stay involved in a youth ministry, but we know it serves as a foundation to finishing strong.
FRIENDS: “Students become like the people they hang out with.” Even though students hate it when I say it, I’ve seen that truth played out thousands of times over the years. Almost everything in high school revolves around friends! To finish strong, good friends are vital.
Although we have over 1,000 students that are involved in our high school ministry, we have many ways for it to “feel” small. Although there is no way I can know everyone personally, it’s our goal that everyone is known by a caring adult who will play the role of “youth pastor” to your son or daughter. Please don’t be afraid to ask for help. If I can’t help, I can find someone who can.
I look forward to getting to know you and your family,
Doug Fields
Pastor to High School Students
High School Ministry Primary Programs
| Friendship EvangelismCommunity + Evangelism |
| Weekend Worship ServiceCrowd + Worship |
| H.A.B.I.T.S. Discipleship ToolsCommitted + Discipleship |
| Area Bible Study Small GroupsCongregation + Fellowship |
| Student LeadershipCore + Ministry |
High School Ministry Program Descriptions
In this section of the packet, we list our program descriptions. Please see page 118 in this Resource Notebook.
Family-Friendly overview
(Specific dates will be in the September Parent’s letter.)
1. Monthly parent’s letter
2. Parent’s open house—our weekend high school service with parents (3 times a year)
3. Family praise & worship (3 times a year)
4. Freshman connection: Student and parents meet with one leader from our high school ministry and discuss specific areas of involvement and spiritual growth opportunities within our ministry. This personalized meeting is one that you will need to request so we can set up a time that works within your schedule.
5. “Been-there” referrals: If you are going through a specific trial and/or situation where you need to talk with other parents who have “been-there”, we will put you in contact with them. If you are a “been-there” parent, please let us know if you’re willing to talk with other parents when they experience what you’ve already been through.
6. Parents of teenagers small groups: These small groups meet twice a month. If you would like to be in one, please call us and we’ll have the leaders get in touch with you.
Summer Connections
Weekly Events
Weekend Worship Services (every Saturday night 5pm and Sunday mornings 8:45 & 11)
Summer Midweek—Tuesday nights this summer (June 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28)
Five week, fabulous freshman, free-for-all, frenzy, for five bucks: Freshmen meet at the church from 6:30-9:30
(see flyer for more details)
Digging Deeper Home Bible Study—Thursday nights this summer (July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, August 5, 13
Trips/Events:
Freshman Overnighter (June 26-27)
Bike, Kayak, Beach Trip (July 10-12)
Girls, Trip (July 13-16)
Guys’ Trip (July 15-19)
Freshman BBQ (July 26)
Super Sunday (July 26)
Magic Mountain Trip (July 27)
Houseboats (August 3-8)
Angel’s Game (August 20)
Ensenada Missions Trip (August 22-26)
Surf Trip (August 28-30)
Another Way to Look at our Programs and Process
| 1 |
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| 9 |
| 11 |
| 17 |
| 2 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 8 |
| 7 |
| 10 |
| 18 |
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| Whoare we trying to target? | Whatis our purpose? | Howwill we attempt to do this? | Howelse will we assist movement? |
| Potential Audience | Primary Goal | Primary Programs | Secondary Programs |
| Community | Evangelism | 2. Hot Night Events | |
| Crowd | Worship | 3. Weekend Worship Service | 4. New Believer’s Study5. Dinner for Ten6. Teens-N-Temptations (recovery)7. Ministry Teams8. Class 101 |
| Congregation | Fellowship | 9. Area Bible Study Small Groups | 10. Class 201 |
| Committed | Discipleship | 11. Discipleship Tools | 12. Praise and Worship13. Missions Monthly14. Bible Institute15. Class 301 |
| Core | Ministry | 17. Student Leadership | 16. Ministry Team Leader18. Class 401 |
Monthly Parents Letter
How We Used This. . .
We send a letter to our parents every month to keep them updated and informed about youth ministry events.
Doug’s Top Ten Things All Parents Should Know
MEXICALI: During Easter break we join over 4,000 high school students from across the country to work in Mexicali, Mexico. The name of this trip is MEXICALI, and it’s a life changing week. We work in poverty-stricken villages and help the local churches by organizing teachings and activities for the children. It would take 1,000 words to describe this trip, so if you would like more information please let us know and we’ll send you a brochure right away. The dates are April 6-12 and the cost is $199.
DINNER 4 TEN: Every month I have ten students over to my house for dinner. It’s one way to make our big group small. It’s also a perfect way for those who don’t know many (or anyone) to make some good contacts. Please call for reservations.
12 HOUR BLITZ: On Friday, March 17 at 7:00 pm to March 18 at 7:00 am we will take a bus to several fun spots throughout Orange County. This is our third year for this all-niter and it’s always been a great night. The cost is $39 and space is limited to 250 people.
CAN WE HELP YOU FIND AN AREA BIBLE STUDY: They are in full-swing! We have eighteen different ABS groups that meet Monday through Thursday nights. This is a great time for your student to connect with students from their campus or their neighborhood. It is one of the best ways we make our large group small with Bible Study, small groups, and prayer. We’d love to have one of our leaders call and invite your son/daughter to an ABS. Please call and let us know if we can help.
ROOTWORKS: We have a take-home Bible study called ROOTWORKS that is intended to help students study the Bible. The first volume is a verse-by-verse study of Philippians. Encourage your son/daughter to give it a try. (We also have Hidden Treasures, Bank of Blessings, and Quiet Time Journal to help develop spiritual disciplines.)
SUMMER--HOUSEBOATS--August 12-17. Mark your calendars. Save your money. An incredible camping experience!
VALUE INPUT: I know you are swamped, but I would love you to share any input you have with our youth ministry staff. I want to hear family success stories and how we can better serve your family. Anything you put in writing can be shared with our volunteer staff and become an on-going encouragement. We’d really like to hear from you!
PARENTS’ NIGHT: On Wednesday, March 29 we are having a Parents’ Night for all parents and their son or daughter. We have a great night planned! Please set this night aside and we’ll see you at 7:00pm in room 500. (Also, don’t forget parents’ Praise & Worship, March 26 @ 6:00pm in the green room.)
STILL NEED MORE PARENTS ON PRAYER TEAM: If you are one of those parents who has read my last two letters and said, “I’m sure there’s a lot of parents to pray, surely they don’t need me,” we need your prayers! I want our ministry prayed for on a continual basis. We will send you prayer requests from within our ministry if you will commit to pray for them. Drop us a note, or call us if you’re interested.
MEMORIZED IT YET?: Our youth ministry exists to REACH non-believing students, to CONNECT them with other Christians, to help them GROW in their faith, and to challenge the growing to DISCOVER their ministry and HONOR God with their life.
Letter to Parents About a Family Friendly Ministry
How We Used This. . .
This is a letter we sent to our parents in the beginning of the school year.
Dear Parents,
I wanted to write and welcome you to another new year of school. I’m very excited about the direction of our youth ministry this year and I wanted to give you an opportunity to hear more about it. We are having a parents’ meeting on September 12 at 7:00PM in room 400. I would love to have you join us!
In case you can’t make the meeting let me share with you a few thoughts I have about our youth ministry leadership team.
1. We care about your son/daughter
The volunteers who are working in our youth ministry have two things in common. One, they love God. Two, they love students. Our men and women leaders really like being around students and have a passion to see them grow in their relationship with Christ.
2. We care about you
Over half of our leaders are parents themselves and understand the incredible responsibility you face every day as a parent. We want to come alongside you and help wherever we can. Don’t hesitate to call us if you need something. If we can help, we will.
3. We care about your family
We don’t want a ministry to your son/daughter, we want a ministry with your family. We want to help your family succeed. Our goal is to create a partnership between our leadership team, your family, and the church body so that we lock arms and work together to honor God in all that we do.
My prayer is that we (you, our church body, and us) can work as a team to point students in the direction of the Cross. I hope you’re looking forward to a great year!
Working together,
Doug Fields
Youth Pastor
resources for
SPECIAL EVENTS
Mexico Missions Trip Expectations
How We Used This. . .
The following two pages contain some of our training material for our adult leaders. We make our expectations known to minimize conflict and misunderstandings. These expectations also help our leaders to be better ministers.
Mexicali Expectations
Rely on the Power of God
“My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.” 1 Corinthians 2:4-5
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.” Ephesians 3:16
“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Gal 5:25
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30
Use Encouragement
Mexicali will be a difficult trip for many of our students, so use words that build up. Don’t let another person’s bad attitude intimidate you from being encouraging; in fact, the bad attitude is an excellent opportunity.
Example: You don’t sweat much for a fat man. Is that an extension of O’Neil Park I see growing on your legs? (bad examples) The good thing is to catch people doing something right, and praise them for it.
Create Community
This is an excellent opportunity to create community within our Youth Ministry. Work to create team/family feel for your village. Think about your village as your family for the week; see to it that everyone is involved and that no one stands on the sidelines.
Example: At lunch, always pray and eat together. Don’t let everyone go wild until after lunch.
Example: On the second day in your village, use the last 20 minutes of your lunchtime to “debrief” the experience. (Why did you come to Mexicali? What have you learned so far? What are some highlights so far? Is Mexicali what you expected it to be?) I would do this on Monday and Wednesday at lunch and Thursday at night before you get back to the camp. (Thursday is the last day, and you’ll need to provide some closure of the experience; this will be a highly emotional time.)
Example: In the morning, when driving to your village, pull over on the side of the road right before you get to your village to have a couple of students pray. (There’s no need to get out of the vans, pray as a van.)
Delegate Tasks
This trip is run by the students. You are responsible for everything that happens, but let the students do it. Your students should have Bible stories, crafts, etc. planned for each day, but you may need to prompt them to action.
Example: After the morning Bible story is completed, ask “What’s the next thing on the agenda?”
Be Responsible
Our group will be over 250 people by the time we go to Mexicali. In my 11 years of Mexicali, there haven’t been any serious accidents. (There was the time when Doug was changing a tire and the car fell off the jack, nearly severing his leg; but that’s a lot closer to “funny” than “accident.”) Parents are entrusting us with their children, let’s not take chances with their safety.
Mexicali is nothing like Houseboats. There is a schedule; it’s flexible at some points, but be on time for meetings. Chapels are mandatory for all students without heavy “ER” type emergencies. Montezuma’s Revenge doesn’t count.
Examples: be on time for meetings, think safety at all times, have students drink tons of water, and get all the students to the chapel services. You don’t need to run your village like a boot camp; establish behavior guidelines with your students and expect their compliance.
Maintain a Servant’s Attitude
This won’t be a problem for this year’s Mexicali staff! If something needs to be done, don’t wait to be asked. When you’re eating lunch, let the students eat first. Mexicali is a difficult trip, so much good is bound to happen. We can expect extra pressure from the enemy. As the week wears on, make it a point to periodically give yourself an “attitude check.”
Build Relationships
We are always most influenced by our friends. Use this time to build one-on-one relationships with some students in your village. Care for them by discovering more about who they are. Pastor them by finding out where they “are at” spiritually. Make it a goal to have a significant conversation with everyone (of the same sex) in your village.
Examples: “Tell me about your self.” “What’s your family life like?” “Do your parents go to Church?” “What are you into, what do you do for fun?” “How would you describe yourself spiritually?” “What do you feel like God is teaching you this week?”
Discipline
You will need to create (at the beginning) and maintain some boundaries for your village. Don’t let one student ruin the trip for the rest of your village. Confront with grace and truth; for major problems, involve a third person like Matt, Lynne, or Doug.
Summer Camp Expectations
Staff Expectations For Houseboat Camp
1) This Is The Student's Trip
We need to do everything possible to make this the greatest week of their life. In our role of leadership we need to model servanthood and be the last at everything (i.e. last at eating, last at skiing, lounge chair rule, etc.)
2) Know Everyone's Names
By the end of dinner the first night you should know everyone's name on your boat. Also, please work to know every student's name on the entire trip. It's not unrealistic to know everyone's name by Wednesday.
3) Be Highly Relational
This trip is our “big-time” relational trip (building significant relationships is the backbone to our ministry). Of course you will need personal time to lay out and "veg", but the majority of your time should be spent investing in the students on your boat. You should be exhausted by the end of the week from working on relationships.
4) Maintain A Great Attitude
Without question, the attitude of the leader will set the tone for the entire boat. If the students on your houseboat complain about something, they will listen for leader's response. Keep positive and free from complaining, and you will see the students do the same. Your attitude is crucial.
5) Don't Be Afraid To Discipline
Our philosophy is to discipline with grace and truth. Grace enters in when we remind ourselves they are high school students and we need to allow them the freedom to be teenagers. The truth enters in when there is a need to speak honestly about their behavior. If there is a relationship built you shouldn't have any problem (rules without relationships lead to rebellion.) Please know that you are responsible for the discipline on your boat. Other leaders, from other boats, shouldn't have to discipline your boat.
6) Model Christianity
Possibly our greatest ministry is modeling what Christianity is all about. This will happen through our love for them, our passion over our relationship with God, our attitude, and through our servanthood.
Summer Camp Covenant Sheet
How We Used This. . .
We have all of the students who are going on our summer camp sign this covenant sheet, which explains the guidelines they need to follow. Although we rarely have problems, when we a student does break a rule, they can’t say, “I didn’t know that.”
Houseboat Trip Covenant
Because of the potential dangers regarding a houseboat trip (i.e. propellers, ski boats, Sea Doos, etc.) I understand the need for me to be responsible on this trip and follow these specific guidelines. I realize my actions may affect the safety and the community of this trip.
q I understand I can’t push people off the top of the houseboat even though it’s really tempting.
q I understand that I need to limit my public display of affection (PDA) if I’m not married.
q I understand and I will honor the established music guidelines.
q I understand that there’s no unsupervised night swimming.
q I understand the need for separate sleeping arrangements and I will honor this.
q I understand the following skiing rules:
No spraying other boats
No skiing close to boats, land, or other skiers
q I understand the following Sea Doo rules:
No wild driving or dumping of passengers
No driving close to boats, land, skiers, or other Sea Doos
No close racing of other Sea Doos
q I understand that I’m not allowed to possess or use tobacco, alcohol, or any type of drugs.
Consequences:
1-3 These actions will be confronted once, and ski time and Sea Doo time will be taken away if repeated.
4-8 These actions will result in being sent home at your family’s expense.
I will follow the above guidelines and Saddleback’s leadership. I understand the consequences if I choose not to follow them.
_________________________________________
Student’s signature
I/We understand all of the guidelines and safety procedures and the potential consequences.
_________________________________________
Parent’s signature
Summer Camp Devotional Booklet Cover Letter
How We Used This. . .
This is the cover letter we put in the front of devotional booklet for our summer camp.
houseboats
Quiet Time Guide
We’re thrilled you’re here at Houseboats . . .
This week promises to be one of the highlights of your life. We’re excited to spend a week away from our “normal” lives, enjoying God’s playground outside of Orange County.
To get the most out of this week . . .
Take the next step . . . Physically. Do something you wouldn’t normally do--take a risk: jump off a rock, try to single ski, etc.
Take the next step . . . Spiritually. Each morning, you will spend some Quiet Time alone with God to pray, look up some Bible verses, and answer some questions. Take this time seriously; it is an opportunity for you to grow closer to God and strengthen your faith. Every adult leader on this trip is here to help you grow. If you have any questions about your faith, or need to talk to someone, take advantage of the leaders, we’re here to help you.
Take the next step . . . in your Relationships. Meet someone new, learn the names of the people on your boat and get to know them. This week is all about community and building relationships. Take the time to get connected with others. It will make your week unforgettable.
What’s in this Notebook?
You’ll want to keep this notebook all week, write your name on it, and stash it in a safe place. This notebook is your Quiet Time Journal for Houseboats. Inside you’ll find four lessons filled with God’s Word and some questions to help direct your study. This devotional guide is a gift; it’s an opportunity for you to grow closer to God.
When you stop to think about your life, I think that’s something you want.
Value this notebook. Take your quiet times seriously. Be ready to discuss some of your answers during your small group time. These booklets are confidential, so don’t go reading through other people’s notebooks.
I’m excited for the fun we’re going to have, and the relationships we’re going to build. I’m most excited for you to grow closer to God.
Praying for your growth,
Doug Fields
Summer Camp Devotional Booklet Sample Page
How We Used This. . .
This is a sample page from the quiet time portion of our summer camp devotional booklet.
NIV Deuteronomy 6:4-8 4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.
What do you think it means to love God with your heart, soul, and strength?
What kind of commitment does this passage expect from Christians? How would you apply this passage to your own life?
Describe the relationship between commitment and obedience. What do you feel is the essence of a commitment?
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
What does Paul mean when he says to “run in such a way to get the prize?”
What exactly is the prize he is referring to?
Any serious athlete knows he or she must go into strict training in order to compete and win. What would “strict training” mean for Christians who want run life well?
Summer Camp Follow Up Letter
How We Used This. . .
This is a letter we sent to all the students who went to summer camp, letting them know about some opportunities to take the next step with their faith.
Dear Champion Skier,
I am so thankful for you! And I’m really glad that you got to go on the houseboat trip.
I had a great time! One of the events that helps my week is watching students like you enjoy themselves. I really hope you did enjoy yourself.
I wanted to write you and tell you that I’m thankful that God has allowed me to be one of your pastors. One of the roles of a pastor is to watch over the group and help point them in the right direction with their spiritual life. I really want you to discover the true joy of following Christ. I’m writing to let you know that I will do anything to help you grow! Please let me know how I can best help you.
I have a few suggestions that I want to give you to help you grow. Here they are:
Set aside a few minutes every day to read God’s Word. If you don’t have a Bible, let me know and I’ll get you either a Message translation or the One Minute Bible for students. If you don’t know where to begin reading, you might pick up a little brochure I wrote called “How to read the Bible”. It’s on the back table every Sunday.
Plan on attending an Area Bible Study (ABS) once school starts. I know you’re busy when school starts, but don’t allow any excuses to keep you from growing in your faith. The ABS will help you grow and surround you with some people to hold you accountable.
Try the RootWorks Bible Study that I’ve written for you so you can learn to study God’s Word on your own. Also, if you missed the Sunday after houseboats, I talked about a Bible memorization program that we’re starting called Hidden Treasures. Sign up for that, and we’ll get you some verses that you can begin to memorize.
Join us for the Bible Institute which is once a month and for our weekly time of Praise and Worship which is going to start up during the middle of September.
Mark your calendars for Chi Alpha (Christ First), which is our in-home discipleship weekend. It’s scheduled for November 8-10. That will be a great weekend to grow in your faith.
I look forward to seeing you soon, and I always look forward to hearing about how you’re growing in your faith. I care about you.
Love in Christ,
Doug Fields
Youth Pastor and Speedo Supermodel
resources for
VISION AND LEADERSHIP
Time Management
How We Used This. . .
In an effort to get a handle of the seemingly countless demands of ministry, Doug has identified the five major roles he plays. He then devotes about 10 hours a week for each role.
DOUG FIELDS’ ROLES
1. Teacher
-Prep Weekend Worship Service
-Write Area Bible Study
-Prep Digging Deeper
2. Pastor
-Student time
-Campus visitation
-Sunday morning
-Sunday night
*volunteer
*SALT
*leadership
-Area Bible Study
-Special events
3. Administrator
-Planning
-Office interruptions
-Budget, finances, etc.
-Programming ideas
-Phone
-Letters
4. Developer
-Creating new ministry tools
-Developing HABITS material
5. Leader
-Staff meetings
-Staff development
*paid staff
*volunteers
-Grow time
Saddleback’s Program Descriptions
SPECIAL EVENTS
L.A. Missions Trip
This mini-missions trip will be an overnighter in the heart of Los Angeles where we will work with the people of the L.A. Mission, feed the homeless, hand out shoes to those in need, and help wherever we can.
Chi Alpha
Chi Alpha means “Christ First”. This weekend retreat will be held in several homes throughout the Saddleback Valley. We meet in these homes to study God’s Word as a group and discuss how to put our faith into action. This has traditionally been a challenging time of spiritual commitment mixed with the fun of a retreat atmosphere.
New Year’s Eve Party
Year after year we fill Fuddruckers’ restaurant with the best, biggest, and safest New Year Party this side of...uh...the 405 freeway. Come join us at the Fuddruckers on El Toro Road for a great alternative to the “traditional” New Year’s Eve parties.
Weekend Worship Service Celebration
Our Weekend Worship Service morning program is our largest crowd event of the week and one of our major focal points in the high school ministry. Every Sunday morning we celebrate with laughter, friendships, music, and instruction from God’s Word. We attempt to shatter the stereotypes that church is boring and Christianity isn’t relevant to your life. Our Weekend Worship Service is fun and full of life, with a student-led band, creative dramas, silly videos, and a message that is intended to move you towards greater maturity in your relationship with Christ.
Dinner 4 10
Once a month, ten students are invited over to Doug and Cathy Fields’ home for a time of food and getting to know one another. This is one of our attempts to make our large group feel small. We’re most interested in having those that are new or not involved so we can introduce them to some staff, and they can meet new friends in a smaller setting.
Area Bible Study (ABS)
Area Bible Studies are designed as an in-depth Bible study and small group time with people that live in your area or attend your high school. Because of our need for fellowship and intimate relationships with other Christians, we have divided our high school ministry into eleven area groups for our mid-week meeting. These area groups study the Bible and then break into smaller groups for discussion, prayer and accountability. We really would love for you to get involved in an ABS near you! Presently we have twenty locations for our Area Bible Studies spread out in the following communities: Aliso Niguel, Capo Valley, El Toro, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo, Portola Hills, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Trabuco Hills.
Ministry Teams
Our high school ministry would be incomplete if it wasn’t for the 100+ students that are involved in making it all happen. We don’t want you to be a spectator in this ministry; we want you to be a participant! Do any of these teams sound good to you? Art, Audio, Baby-sitting, Band, BodyBoarding, Surfing, Bulletin Stuffing, Cancer Support Group, Prayer, Encouragement, Drama, Follow up, Greeting, Junior High, Meals for the Needy, Sunday School Teacher, Mountain Biking, Newspaper, Office Work, Recycling, Sign Language, Singers, Sunday Morning set-up, Video, Care Calling, and Photography. If we don’t have a place that interests you, let us know, and we’ll help you start one.
TNT: Teens N’ Temptations
Teens N’ Temptation is our weekly program to help those students who are struggling with using alcohol, drugs, sex, and smoking as a way of recreation or coping. This is a SAFE place to share and find support in a confidential, small group setting.
New Believer’s Study
If you are a new Christian or you want to learn some of the basics for growing as a Christian, we have six classes just for you. On the last Sunday of every month, we teach one of the 6 classes in our attempt to answer your questions and help you grow. If you came every month you’d finish the classes in six months and have a better understanding of what it means to be a Christian.
H.A.B.I.T.S. Discipleship Tools
One of our goals is to help committed students develop HABITS necessary for continual spiritual growth. We’ve identified these habits and some tools to help you develop these HABITS.
| HABITS | Free Tool |
| Hang time with God | Quiet Time Journal |
| Accountability with another believer | SAG 5 (student accountability group) |
| Bible memorization | Hidden Treasures |
| Involvement with the church body | Going to “Big” Church |
| Tithing commitment | Bank of Blessings |
| Study the Bible | RootWorks |
Quiet Time Journal
The quiet time journal is really nothing more than a short space to write, a little design, and a few questions. We’ve put all of this on a half-sheet piece of paper, so that you don’t need to fill up an entire page every time you write in your journal. We only put thirty pages in each journal so you can replace this journal several times throughout the year. It’s free, but you must sign up for this.
S.A.G. F.I.V.E.
S.A.G. stands for Student Accountability Group, and it consists of you and one other person from your school. F.I.V.E. stands for the amount of minutes we want you to pray with each other during the week. We believe our committed students should be in a accountable relationship with another Christian from their school. We want to help you make this happen and encourage you along the way.
Sign up for this, or let us know if you’re in a SAG group.
Hidden Treasures
This is our verse memorization program that will help you hide God’s Word in your heart. A committed Christian needs to rely on God’s Word. We’ve put together a packet of flip cards to help you memorize scripture. Once you get through the first five verses we’ll give you another five and cheer you on.
It’s free, but you must sign up for this.
Bank of Blessings
Although it may be surprising, if you can get excited about giving your money while you’re a student, your life will be blessed. While the idea of getting excited about giving may seem strange to you now, you will come to find that many Christians view giving money to the Lord as their privilege. Through the Bank of Blessings tool, you will learn what the Bible says about giving, hear a message regarding giving, and experience giving firsthand.
It’s free, but you must sign up for this.
RootWorks
RootWorks is the name for our individual Bible study books. We have put together some studies that will take you verse by verse through various New Testament books. One of the disciplines of committed Christians is the ability to study on their own. RootWorks will help you do this. After you complete one of these studies, we’d like to meet with you to talk through the content and address any thoughts, questions, and/or concerns. Then we’ll give you the next study.
It’s free, but you must sign up for this.
Praise & Worship
This is an opportunity for you to take a short ‘Time Out’ in your week and meet with other Christians for some praise and worship. In about an hour we’ll worship through song, prayer, and God’s Word. We make it semi-early in the night and fairly quick so you’re not out too late another night of the week.
Bible Institute
Have your friends ever asked you questions about God that you can’t answer? Worse yet, do you have questions and no answers? The Bible Institute is a two-year program designed to take you deeper in the knowledge of your faith! We want to tackle the big questions so you have the answers you need.
The Institute is divided into three sections: Bible, Theology, and Apologetics. In the Bible track we provide an overview of all the books and the major passages in the Bible. In the Theology Track, we learn topical stuff like: the trinity, salvation, the second coming, and Heaven. In the Apologetics Track, we study truth that will help us tell others why we believe what we do.
Student Leadership
Student Leadership is designed for the student who is in ministry, has a desire to give time to the high school ministry, and is totally committed in their relationship with God. Leadership students are given training and responsibility to meet the needs of their peers and help fulfill the purposes of the high school ministry.
Class 101, 201, 301
These classes are the student version of Saddleback’s 101-301. We encourage students to go through these classes to receive some instruction that will help them grow to a new level in their faith.
Class 101
This is our introduction class that exposes you to the basics of the Christian faith, and teaches you about our church family and our high school ministry. At the end of the class students are given an opportunity to join our church.
Class 201
This class covers the basic habits every Christian needs in order to grow spiritually and gives you the skills to start these habits.
Class 301
This class helps you identify your spiritual gifts, and walks you through how to find out how God has shaped and created you for ministry.
Parent’s Involvement
Parent’s Prayer Team
Parents, if you would like to join our list of parents who meet to pray for our students and staff, please let us know. These parents are our prayer warriors who are on their knees supporting what we’re trying to do for high school students.
Parent’s Small Groups
If you would like to be in a small group with other parents of teenagers to get support, ideas, comfort, or to find out that you’re fairly normal, please let us know. We will be putting these small groups together all throughout the year. If you’re interested, please call Kathleen Hamer at 555-1212.
Parent’s Night
Three times a year, in room 404 we will be having a parents’ night just for you. You can come alone or come with your high school student. We want to show you what we do at our Weekend Service and tell you a little more about our ministry. We really want to meet you and let you hear a little about our love for Christ and our passion for high school students. It’s guaranteed to be a great night.
Follow Up
Why do we need a follow-up system?
An effective follow-up system is very important for us to carry out some of the core values of our ministry. A thorough system allows us to make a large group feel small, communicate values of being cared for and belonging, and hold our youth staff accountable to “shepherding” students.
Who Do We Follow up?
Weekend Worship Service Attendance (visitors and regulars)
Call-in requests from parents
Adult Service cards
Other special events
How Is Follow up Implemented From Weekend Worship Service Attendance?
1. Every student is asked to circle his or her name on the weekly attendance list. There are lists at every table.
2. The volunteer at the table sees if there are visitors and asks them to fill out a “Fuschia Card”, which is a general information card.
3. Pictures are taken of students (both new and regulars) on a consistent basis and are processed the following week. The photos are attached to cards with name and school information to be used as flash cards--allowing adult leaders to learn names.
4. The attendance sheets are compiled into a master list. From that list, names of regular students are scanned into a computer program for attendance record-keeping. A report of the attendance is then printed for follow up on regular attendees.
5. If a regular attender has missed two weeks in a row, that name is assigned to a staff person to contact by phone or post card.
6. Each visitor from that Sunday immediately receives a letter thanking them for visiting and welcoming them to other program. The letter includes a flyer with program descriptions and upcoming events. Also included is a self-addressed stamped postcard asking for their comments and impressions of Sunday Morning.
7. The visitor names are also divided between the staff to follow up with a personal note or call.
Other Areas Of Follow-up:
1. CALL-IN REQUESTS - We receive various calls every week from parents. The phone calls are documented by our staff assistant. A follow-up team of students contacts students who need to be encouraged to come to activities. Other calls, such as counseling needs and referrals, are given directly to the paid staff.
2. CHURCH SERVICE REQUESTS - Many times there are students visiting who attend the church service instead of the High School Group. If they request information, they receive a letter encouraging them to attend the group with a calendar of information and an invitation to Dinner 4 10.
3. OTHER EVENTS - Visitors to events are encouraged to visit our Sunday morning program. There names are given to the Area Pastor for their school and are followed up with a phone call from an adult volunteer.
Sample Training From A Staff Meeting
How We Used This. . .
The following resource is some training we did at one of our staff meetings.
Team Ministry
It takes a great deal of work and prayer to make a staff an effective youth ministry team. It's difficult to work together in harmony and make an impact on the students that God has given us responsibility for. Effective team ministry is possible and God will use this team to accomplish his work as we present ourselves as faithful servants.
Cultivate Growth
For a team ministry to be effective it must go through a cultivation process. The staff must work together, struggle together, share common experiences and develop new and growing relationships. These experiences will help the staff grow into a team.
Obviously, the staff must work together but within the boundaries of the working together, many different variables take place that are healthy for the livelihood of the team and the interpersonal relationships within the staff. Conflict (which is discussed later), communication, expressing experiences that are shared within the overall context of our team ministry.
Play Together
In addition to working together, it's important that the staff plays together. Finding times where we share experiences foreign to youth ministry allows outside experiences to be brought into the context of our working relationships, which will help lead to understanding one another, dealing with conflicts and creating a better team ministry.
Conflict
The church isn't exempt from conflict. Conflict can be advantageous to building a team. Conflict that materializes from the outside can pull the staff closer together as we deal with the issue. When conflict arises within the staff, this can also be a positive experience if the conflict is handled in a mature and godly manner.
Friendships
Our staff will develop quality relationships. These friendships can work to an advantage in the ministry as long as we are able to recognize that even the best of friends need to be held accountable and confronted just like any staff member. It's obvious that there are going to be friendships within the staff that are stronger than others. It is the responsibility of the close friendships not to isolate themselves from the other staff and realize what positive and negative effects their friendship is having on the rest of our staff. The staff's friendships are an incredible witness to students.
"They will know that you are my disciples by the love that you have for one another." (John 13:34,35)
Supporting the entire church
An important fact to remember is that the youth staff is one part of the entire church staff. It's easy to become an isolated group. We need to keep in mind that we are one vital aspect of the entire mission of the church. We are not a separate entity. Tunnel vision (just thinking of youth ministry) is a selfish and unhealthy attitude. We need to be prayerfully and physically supportive of the other ministries within the church. You'd be amazed at the other ministries that aid us throughout the year.
It's also vital that our youth staff be supportive of Saddleback as a church. If you can't be supportive of Saddleback Church, you shouldn't be involved in a leadership role. This becomes an obvious conflict of interests since our youth ministry doesn’t operate as a separate entity. The people that can’t support the church are unhappy and become critical. They lose their focus of looking outward and begin to look inward and end up becoming fault finders. It's best to be involved in a church that has a purpose that you can get excited about. Students are very perceptive and will sense dissension right away, and this isn't team ministry.
Sharing Ministry
It's obvious that various people oversee different activities. The word 'oversee' might be better understood as a synonym to the word 'involvement'. We want people to be involved in sharing ministry. Delegation has often been associated with “dumping”. Delegation is better described as integrating. We want to integrate people in ministry. If an activity or task is sponsored by the youth department, everybody (not just the overseer) should be concerned about its success.
Quality Staff
We continue to believe that God will bring together quality people to form an incredible youth staff! Every year great things happen in our ministry and God uses our staff to help complete His purpose. It's unbelievable! God will use this staff, in spite of our inadequacies, to minister his love to the students in our community. Be willing and excited to let God use you this year. We are excited you are a part of this youth ministry!
Weekend Worship Service Overview
Aim
· to present realistic Christianity, especially as it applies to basic felt needs of students
· to communicate that God's love is passionate and unconditional
· to move students towards Christian maturity
· to encourage personal application of Biblical truths
· to expose non-Christians to God's love and to Christianity
· to speak to all types of students: seeker, stumbler, and the sold out
Attitude of Leadership
· fun-loving
· caring--personally interested in individual lives
· affirming--always looking for ways to build into students
· servant-minded
Audience
· Crowd—students committed to hearing about Jesus
Atmosphere
· non-threatening
· positive
· warm
· fun/funny--laughter is present
Attraction
· fun
· time of learning/being challenged
· better understanding of God/Christian life
· time with friends/other Christians
· relevant to needs
· quality program
Assignments
· designed by planning team (both student/adult)
· implemented by student leadership
· volunteer staff overseeing table responsibilities
Areas of Student Leadership
· greeting
· visitor follow-up
· video
· drama
· information/sales table
· set-up/clean-up
· photography
· information/communication
· atmosphere
· programming
Area Bible Study Overview
Aim
· to connect students with Christian adults and other students
· to present relevant Christian truth
· to meet in small groups
· to study the Bible
· to share concerns, prayer requests, and questions
· to create a place that feels safe
· to personalize Biblical truths
Attitude of Leadership
· relational, life on life
· consistent
· empathetic, concerned with needs of small group
· sensitive to visitors
· challenging to students to take the next step with their faith
· transparent and truthful
· encouraging and supporting students when they struggle, stumble, or have a crisis
Audience
· Congregation—students committed to a relationship with Jesus and other believers
Atmosphere
· meets in home
· accepting and belonging
· community feel
Attraction
· relationships
· time of learning/being challenged
· place to share and listen
· time with friends/other Christians
· relevancy to needs
· quality program
Assignments
· curriculum provided by High School staff
· implemented by adult volunteer leaders
· Small Group Leaders
· Point Person for each ABS
· Teacher for each ABS
· Division Leader for each four ABS
Areas of Student Leadership
· greeting
· visitor follow up
· small group leader
· campus pastor
Life Development Intern Program
Purpose:
The purpose of this program is to expand present ministry staff (with specific assistance needed in program coverage, special projects, ministry development) while providing training, experience, and leadership development to future church Purpose Driven ministers in children, youth and college ministries.
Primary Areas of Development
Personal and Spiritual Development – An emphasis will be placed on individual spiritual growth and development. Interns will be in a weekly shepherd group meeting, led by Lynne Ellis. Areas to include:
Accountability (connected to a mature volunteer staff)
Balanced Living (unraveling the mystery of this oxymoron)
Spiritual Disciplines – Quiet Time, Bible Study and Scripture Memory, Solitude, and Giving
Personal Goal Planning and Time Management
Character Development (with an emphasis on serving with humility)
Leadership – Through scheduled training, seminars, and responsibilities in ministry areas, intentional leadership development will be focused on the areas of:
Attitude/Philosophy (Use of SHAPE, Purpose Driven Life, Personality & Leadership Profiles Tool)
Conflict Management & Resolution
Building and Shepherding a Volunteer Team
Program Management
Special Event Planning and Implementation
Decision Making
Small Group Leading
Participating in Church Growth Conference and PDYM Seminar
Attendance in Appropriate Seminar in Ministry Area
Ministerial – Focus will be given to develop interpersonal, counseling, and shepherding skills in ministering to people. Areas of teaching and experience will include:
Counseling (Participate in 12-week lay counseling training program)
Strategic Follow-up in Ministry Areas
Student Work and Discipleship
Develop Church-wide Ministerial View (observation with MOD calls and follow-up)
Administration – Experience and instruction will be given in duties, skills, and tasks necessary for ministry functioning. Areas to include:
Computer skills – word processing, promo flyers, data entry
General office equipment use (including video production where applicable)
Budgeting – personal and program
Understanding and working with team dynamics
Basic office etiquette
Long range planning
Interoffice communication
Communication – Opportunities and teaching will be given in developing communication skills, both interpersonal and public. Opportunities for teaching will vary in ministry areas, but will put emphasis on:
Professionalism among staff, students, and parents
Teaching techniques
Curriculum writing and/or editing
Speaking to groups
Supervision
Intern program content and group shepherding will by supervised by Lynne Ellis. Within each area of Life Development, a staff person will directly give instruction for the tasks and specific duties in that department. An evaluation process will start at the beginning of the program. An initial 6-week evaluation trial period will be implemented to help ensure fit, spiritual and emotional integrity, and teachability. On-going feedback and evaluation will happen throughout the year by Lynne and Life Development Staff Person delegating responsibilities.
Application Process
Potential interns will be asked to complete an extensive application, 3 references, and interview process. References will be called and some type of background check will be performed (either fingerprinting or police check).
Requirements:
Evidence of a commitment to Christ and growing relationship
Desire to pursue ministry and heart for children, youth or college
Minimum age of 20 years (with at least 2 years college)
Ability to take initiative and be self-directed
Agreement with the Purposes and Doctrine of SVCC
Some previous ministry experience (volunteer or staff position)
Minimum weekly commitment to 25 hours per week (preferable commitment – 40 hours per week)
Financial Considerations
Cost to Interns: At the start of this program, interns will be asked to pay $1000 to cover the cost of:
Resources and teaching tools (books, tapes, profile tools)
Intern pre & post retreat
Participation in appropriate conference or seminar (i.e. Youth Specialties Conference)
Any additional event expenses due to intern participation
Housing:
Free housing will be provided for interns, coordinated through Lynne Ellis.
Support Raising:
Several interns will raise support for additional living expenses. An account will be set up to provide that income to those interns.