Youth Ministries have a unique opportunity to invest in the lives students from 6th to 12th grade. It is a fantastic six year period for youth minister to invest in the lives of youth and help them grow in their faith. Unfortunately, after those students graduate high school, ministry often stops. Why? This can happen for a variety of reasons depending on the resources and ministries at the Church. Sure, there will always been some connections between youth ministry leaders and former students, but it is not like it was while the student was in middle and high school.
While youth ministers and leaders have more limited opportunities to minister to college-aged students, there are some ways to connect. One of those ways is to have youth ministry alumni gatherings. These gatherings are simple ways for graduates of the youth ministry to stay connected to each other and youth leaders during school breaks.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to have a youth ministry alumni party. Get the word out to all your returning college students or those no longer in your Student Ministry program about a gathering sometime between Tuesday and Saturday. Invite them over to a house, have some food, maybe have everyone share what they are up to and then wrap up with an encouraging word from one of the Student Ministers. This can be done in person, online or phygital where you have an in person gathering with a Zoom option for anyone to come in and connect.
Christmas and New Years is an even greater opportunity for a youth ministry alumni gathering. In fact, you can have multiple ones. Because college students are home from school longer, there provides you an opportunity to not just have a gathering but you could probably do a 3 week Bible study time. It doesn’t have to be super formal, just a time for the students to be together, connect and be encouraged in their faith. Maybe it will be the perfect opportunity for them to get back on track with Christ as they go into the spring semester or a new year of work.
Conclusion
Doing youth ministry alumni gatherings can be great opportunities for a youth minister to connect with students throughout the year. Because of digital advancements, it is easier than ever to stay connected with former students. However, having in person gatherings during the holidays could be just the encouragement and connection youth ministry alumni need. In addition, it could ultimately help you do other gatherings throughout the year. For instance, it could help you start a summer Bible study that will be an inspiration, encouragement and connection that alumni need to help them growing in their faith.
What do you think? What are some other youth ministry alumni gatherings opportunities are there over the holidays? Share your ideas below or on social media.
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