Summary

This training video features Caleb from Allison Park Church discussing student leadership development in youth ministry. The conversation explores four essential elements for creating an effective student leadership program: commitment, ownership, accountability, and opportunity. Caleb shares insights from his personal experience of growing up in a church with a strong student leadership model and now implementing similar strategies in his own youth ministry. The video provides practical guidance for youth pastors and leaders of all ministry sizes, emphasizing that these principles can be applied in any context.

Main Points

Commitment

Commitment is the first essential element of student leadership development. Leaders must set clear expectations and standards that demand students prioritize their involvement in the ministry. This involves creating a structure where students actively choose to be part of the leadership program and are willing to make sacrifices. The commitment filter helps identify students who are genuinely interested in growing and serving.

Ownership

Creating a sense of ownership transforms student leadership from a passive experience to an active ministry partnership. When students feel the ministry belongs to them, they become more invested, invite friends, and set a positive tone. The goal is to shift from a ministry "for" students to a ministry "with" students, giving them a voice in shaping the program. This approach helps students feel valued and empowered, encouraging deeper engagement and spiritual growth.

Accountability

Accountability goes beyond logistical commitments to focus on spiritual disciplines and personal growth. Regular check-ins should address Bible reading, prayer life, and service commitments. The purpose is not to shame students but to challenge them to grow in their faith and leadership. Accountability helps ensure that leadership is not just about skills or personality, but about genuine discipleship. By maintaining consistent, supportive accountability, leaders can help students develop strong spiritual foundations.

Opportunity

Providing regular opportunities for students to lead is crucial for their development. Leaders must be willing to take risks and allow students to serve, even if their performance isn't perfect. This means giving students microphone time, leadership roles, and chances to lead, even when they might not be fully prepared. The focus should be on development rather than perfection, understanding that growth happens through experience. Leaders need to overcome their own desire for excellence and instead prioritize student growth, recognizing that watching students progress is far more fulfilling than maintaining a flawless program.

Action Items

• Develop clear commitment standards for student leaders

• Create weekly accountability check-ins focused on spiritual disciplines

• Provide regular opportunities for students to lead and serve

• Design a system that gives students genuine ownership of ministry activities