“In spite of all our plans and preparations, the best (youth) ministries are continually working and improving their plans, rewriting the script every day, laying tracks just a few yards ahead of the train.”
Mark DeVries, Sustainable Youth Ministry
An acquaintance asked me the other day to share some insights from working 15 months in my new role in a church in Hamilton, ON.
After some reflection, here are 15 key Insights from 15 months.
- Keep up meeting with those whom you serve, however that might take place, and listen for what’s important to them.
- Familiarize with the way things operate and be curious to inquire ‘Why?’. Then listen.
- Regularly survey or ask feedback from the people you serve to improve things as you go.
- Lead by example and invite people to join in whatever is going on, or whatever is being planned for the future.
- Create opportunities to invite newcomers and neighbours to things going on in the church or in our homes.
- Be sensitive when introducing new things; we all don’t like change.
- Repeat, repeat, repeat. Leadership is continually repeating messages.
- Don’t assume everyone loves Jesus.
- Be careful when you meet others; they just might know a little more about Jesus than you do.
- Picture for people what’s possible, often more than what they see for themselves.
- Keep expectations realistic so as not to be disappointed.
- Thank people often, even for the small things.
- Remain teachable and flexible.
- Pray often.
- Remember, God is God and I am not. He is in control.
“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house…”
Apostle Peter
The Artisan Post 
Only after being in the forefront of ministerial work, then you will be able to know, understand and accept people. I like being intentional and relational along with your list.
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