Last weekend I had the pleasure to participate at an amazing youth leader training seminar led by Jonathan McKee. The seminar was entitled “Connect – engaging one-on-one relationships i a world of isolation”. Among those who beneficiated from Jonathan’s teaching were 5 other youth leaders form my church.
Here are few of the things we learned:
- Today’s teens are addicted to digital media. (Youth are technically savvy.) Teenagers are capable of watching TV, listening to the iPod, surfing the net and text at the same time.
- Because youth consume so much media, their attitudes and behaviors are shaped by the media. Therefore, it is important that parents and youth leaders get acquainted with the media kids consume. (A good place to check the top music videos kids consume is billboard.com)
- Teens have lots of e-friends, but they feel lonely and they long for real relationships. Because of they are so addicted to the digital media, they have less personal interaction with real people.
- As leaders we must plan activities that give students the opportunity to experience relational ministry and provide safe arenas for spiritual conversations.
Jonathan McKee is a great, fun speaker. TheSource4ym is Jonathan’s ministry. At their website “www.thesource4ym.com” you can find thousands of online resources for free.
