Embracing the Joys and Challenges of a New Ministry Year

The Best Job in the World
Ministry is an incredible vocation. Those of us who serve in children’s, youth, and family ministry are often at the heart of the most dynamic, joy-filled, and life-changing work within the church. What could be more rewarding than investing in the spiritual lives of young people, witnessing them grow in faith, and walking alongside families as they disciple their children and navigate the complexities of life?

For many, ministry is not just a job; it’s a passion. It’s what gets us out of bed in the morning with a sense of purpose and excitement. We have the privilege of sharing the love of Jesus with the next generation, guiding them to know and follow Him. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a child grasp the truth of the gospel for the first time or a teenager commit their life to Christ. Ministry allows us to be part of God’s redemptive story, and that is a privilege beyond measure.

The Reality: Ministry Can Be Hard

As we approach the beginning of a new academic year, we must acknowledge that ministry can also be incredibly challenging. September often brings a surge in activity. New ministries are starting, new leaders need to be inducted, new children and young people welcomed, and new curricula selected. It’s a time of new energy and enthusiasm, but it can also be exhausting.

The summer may have been filled with camps, holiday Bible clubs, and countless other activities. While these events bring joy, they can also leave us feeling worn out before the term has even begun! Some of us may just not be feeling the excitement; we might even dread the start of a new season filled with programmes, meetings, and events. The challenges of ministering in the 21st century are daunting. Discipling children and young people today involves navigating a complex web of social media, mental health issues, and a culture that often feels increasingly secular. Many of us may feel ill-equipped to handle these challenges. We might be asking ourselves, “Am I really prepared for this? Do I have what it takes to lead these young people well?”

Encouragement from Scripture: The Task Remains the Same

In these moments, it’s crucial to remember the promises of God’s Word. Jesus Himself said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Our strength doesn’t come from our abilities or resources; it comes from the Lord. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

The task of ministry remains unchanged, no matter the challenges we face. Jesus gave us a clear mission:

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:18-20)

We are called to make disciples, baptise them, and teach them to obey all that Jesus has commanded. This includes the children and young people we serve. Amidst all the planning, logistics, stress, and excitement, we must keep the main thing the main thing.

Paul gives us great encouragement as he reminds the church in Corinth that their labour in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58) - let us to be reminded of this incredible truth.

Love, Serve, and Train Your Team(s)

As we prepare for the new year, let’s do so alongside others. There is something incredibly precious about serving as part of a kids or youth team in a local congregation. When this is working well, it can be a real blessing and a means of God’s transforming grace in our lives.

If you lead teams, make it a priority to love, serve, and train them well. Get to know the individuals on your team. Pray for them. Check in on how they are doing—not just in their role, but in their personal lives and walk with the Lord. Prioritise meeting together for planning and prayer. Foster an environment where people are growing and flourishing spiritually as they serve.

Be proactive in training your leaders. Volunteers appreciate training opportunities, so plan some sessions or seek out training available online or in your area. Developing leaders ensures that ministry is not overly dependent on just one or two people.

Hold Your Nerve

Every year, we might experience doubts, especially on the first night of our kids or youth group. The young people seem so… young! We wonder if they’ll listen, if they’re interested, or if we have anything worthwhile to offer. In those moments, we must remind ourselves of Paul’s charge to Timothy:

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2)

The young people will change. The culture around us will change. Our teams will change. We will change. But the message of the gospel doesn’t change. So we must hold our nerve and, with great patience, continue to hold out the good news of Jesus Christ.

A Call to Persevere

As we enter this new ministry year, let’s embrace it with a renewed sense of purpose. Ministry is challenging, but it is also deeply rewarding. We are engaging in kingdom work, planting seeds that will bear fruit for eternity. When we feel the weight of ministry, let us remember that we are not carrying it alone. Jesus walks with us, equips us, and sustains us.

Let us embrace the joys and challenges of ministry, knowing that God has called us to this work, that He is at work, and that He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in us. May we find joy in the privilege of serving, strength in God’s promises, and encouragement in the community of believers around us. Together, let’s press on, trusting that God is doing more than we can see, and that He will use us to make a lasting impact in the lives of the children, young people, and families we serve.