MINISTRY STRATEGY
for the
COMMITMENT LEVEL MODEL



The level in the model as implemented at the Windsor Fellowship youth group that involves the greatest degree of spiritual commitment is the Ministry level. The goal of ministry in the model (see Goal of Model) is to ensure that all believers have identified and are using their spiritual gift or gifts. The group is in the transition stage of changing this level from Leader events to Ministry events, as we have realised that the goal of ministry is not develop leaders but mature Christian who will minister for Christ according to their own gifting. See Pete Ward's concerns about Safe youth ministry.

All the activities that were involved in the Leader Events previously will still function, but now the focus of this level will extend to all young people and youth leaders irrespective of whether they are called and gifted to leading youth.

The events that are suggested here include a gifts workshop where Christians can identify and learn how to use their spiritual gifts. The group has already worked through one of the YouthBuilder curriculum books by Jim Burns on spiritual gifts. Then next step is to run a gifts workshop - which is a two day programme designed to teach people about spiritual gifts, help them to discover their gift or gift mix, and explore how the gifts can operate with the youth group and the local church. After this it is important to explore ways in which people can be encouraged to use their gift and ensure that encouragement and guidance is provided as people minister.

Then there are events that relate to leadership within the youth group. The training of the leadership team will continue to receive our attention as we provide input on leadership through the planning meetings held each term, through leadership retreats and through seminars that leaders will attend. See material on leadership within the youth group.

There are also events that relate to leadership or ministry within the community. A programme will be implemented in which youth are developed in the area of leadership - so that they can be leaders within their community. We will look for ways to encourage and support youth who are identified as leaders within their school or community.

The Minister level will find expression through the other events in the youth groups programme strategy. People will be encouraged to minister at Contact Events, Connect Events, Follow-up Events, Growth Events and Impact Events. It is in and through these events that young people will get to use their gifts and grow in their relationship with Christ.




Return to Model of Youth Ministry