Only Bowling
It is never just bowling. Have you ever dealt with an event being viewed as just a fun event? It’s these types of events that become used as punishments (by disallowing attendance). But, I think that every event should have a purpose. If not, how is your youth group different than the YMCA? Youth ministry isn’t just fun events. I have found that the “fun events” can have a powerful effect on the “spiritual events.” If a student isn’t comfortable chatting with me in a car ride, will he ever be comfortable talking about the most important things? These times establish credibility and create opportunities for later. Also, I have had some great conversations about the faith while students have their guard down. The hard thing for a youth pastor is understanding your role on these events. I am not there to play or have fun. I am there to look for chances to engage students with Christ. I have to ensure that I stay focused on my role in the event. How do you respond to the thought that all you do is play dodgeball?