met an aussie pastor today who recently came to the states and is serving as a youth pastor and worship leader. he is specifically from Sydney, the home of Hillsong Church, and their youth ministry United. i asked him what leading a youth ministry in the shadow of United was like, and he said that you just don't do it...you pack kids up and take them over to United's events.
i have to admit that on one level i really admire the quality and the breadth of what is happening at Hillsong, but on the other hand it makes me sad that other churches in the area feel ill equipped to reach youth in unique ways...
still chewing on this one though...what do you think?
What, an Aussie in Virginia!!?? Poor bloke!!!
Mate, it is a reality that, as good as United is, it's a real struggle for a lot of smaller churches to build up a youth group without competing against them. The struggle comes from appreciating what they have to offer and the need to develop your own identity. It's like trying to organise a country fair next door to Disney Land!
Posted by: Rob Petrini | May 28, 2007 at 12:05 PM