I loved working with students and living into the rhythms of the school year. There was so much to do to prepare for a new year, to welcome new students for the first time
and returning students for another year. I brainstormed about what would be fun and engaging for students and would create space for them to build relationships with each other.
For youth, it’s important to connect with students and parents. I wanted to foster an environment of mutual support between the youth
ministry and families. How could we work together to care for middle and high schoolers as they navigated this time in their lives? Back-to-school season is a time to set the tone and help students and families get excited for the possibilities of a new year.
College students are looking for community, and the
beginning of the school year is a prime opportunity to help them find it. Churches need to create spaces of welcome and belonging where students can be themselves – all of who they are. Students need the support of ministers and members of the congregation, of course. Maybe more importantly, they need room to forge friendships with their peers in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
On campus, it’s easy to get siloed into majors and schools. Church should be a place where aspiring mechanical engineers, graphic designers, elementary educators, horticulturalists, musicians and more can gather to learn, grow, and serve. Where they can be reminded that God’s love and grace are boundless. Where
they can learn that no matter our major or career path, we are all called to care for our neighbor.
This week’s blog offers ideas for back-to-school with youth and college students. There are practical ideas for
events, activities, and resources as well as thoughts on what students need in this season of their lives.
