“I think you may find the point is simple: to encourage you. As a student pastor and leader myself, isn’t that what we all really need? Yes, the glam and name recognition is nice, plus being the youngest person on staff, meaning you are the “cool” staff member. But in the end, with all the fame and fortune (I use the term fortune lightly…and comically) that comes in student ministry, burn out and low points are inevitable. These stories won’t feel all that unique, because many will be familiar to you and your own experiences in some form or fashion. In fact, though we like to think we’ve got the coolest, newest thing in student ministry, well…never mind, I want you to read the rest of the book. Let me say this, from start to finish, I want to “bookend” on..”
Excerpt From: Chris Ward. “Gummy Bears In the Toilet - Who's Your Jamie Lolley?.” iBooks.
Chris Ward and his family reside in Little River, SC outside Myrtle Beach. He served as the Family Life Pastor at Seacoast Vineyard Church and has worked with Student, Kids, and College ministry for over 12 years in the local church. He has a Bachelor degree in Marketing & Management and owns and operates a Real Estate company in Little River. He also obtained his Master's Degree in Discipleship Ministries from Liberty Theological Seminary.
Fun and and games (and Jesus of course) defines much of student ministry...but there are many serious issues we deal with as leaders when working with our youth.
Book Excerpt
Gummy Bears In the Toilet - Who's Your Jamie Lolley?
This is super beneficial as you minister to this generation of students. Statistics by themselves are just static but recognizing the reality of certain situations in the families in your ministry area, while understanding that on a broad scale it may not be as unique of a situation as you originally thought, can be an encouragement. I say encouragement because while the situation may be bad, the opportunity to connect with another leader in the same predicament can allow you both to address and minister to the student and/or family better.
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