Bob's Blog

Weightier Worship

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:02:00 +0000

A few years back, I attended Talbot Seminary in pursuit of a graduate degree. It lasted all of three semesters but it did get me a life time subscription to Biola's magazine. I rarely know anyone the magazine writes about but I do come across an article that grabs my attention, and this past Fall issue was just one of those articles. The lead story covered the topic of modern worship in our churches (Weightier Worship; Fall '10). I think for some Christians the subject of worship can be a divider but as a Boomer generation grows older and music styles between Gen X, Millenials and Boomers merge as one, the worship "wars" have seemed to lessen and the conversations seem to center more on worship itself and not so much on musical styles.

The article was written by Brett McCraken, Biola's managing editor and author of the recent book Hipster Christianity, a book that I recommend for anyone who ministers to university and college students. The article has a distinct regional viewpoint (most of the worship leaders who were interviewed are from the Southern California/Biola area). It still touches the core of what all worship leaders are trying to do and that is to lead fellow believers into a true posture of worship. There are some great extras in the article (online sources) and should stimulate thoughtful conversation on whether Christian worship is "articulating what we believe" or simply programming an attractive music style to draw people into our morning service. If you would like to receive the article you can contact Biola Magazine at www.biola.edu/biolamag.

Chuck Bomar's New Book For College Ministries

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 03:42:00 +0000

Chuck Bomar has a new book out for those who are looking to start a college ministry. The name of the book is called College Ministry From Scratch and is a great resource for college leaders who have many years of experience or for those who are just beginning. The book is broken up into two sections. The first deals with "focusing on what's really needed" in order to lay a solid foundation that will help in building a strong group, while the second section talks about key issues and needs that will confront every college-age. Very practical for those who are getting their feet wet and are searching for the basics. It's a quick read (about 190 pages) with a concise overview at the end of each chapter. You can look for more of Chuck's materials on his web site at www.collegeleader.org.

My Generation

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:57:00 +0000

If the title of this post reminds you of the Who song with the same name, then you are most likely from my generation or you like listening to "classic rock." It has nothing to do with The Who, that iconic rock group of the 60's & 70's. Actually, it's a new TV show that will air tonight on ABC describing the lives of a handful of twenty-somethings. The tag-line that ABC is hoping will draw viewers to its program is put this way, "It's not where they've been but where they are going." A little cheesy but it gets the main point across.

And what is that main point? Trying to give a generation, who are known as Millennials, it's own voice in the wonderful world of TV. How is ABC doing this? Through hipness (look on ABC's web page and count how many times they allude to journey), technology (interact with the show on your ipad during the premiere), music (lots of it on the show), and friend them (they have their own Facebook page). You're even invited to walk with them on the journey they call young adulthood by watching a video they made of the cast move to Austin. This show could be a great insight into how young lives transition from post-adolescent years into becoming adults, but something tells me it'll be more of a Melrose Place meets reality TV. I could be wrong but I've seen some of the previews and I'm not too hopeful.

It all begins tonight at 8pm (that's Pacific coast time) on ABC. Maybe I'll play The Who's My Generation to get myself ready for it. I think I have a tie-dyed T-shirt somewhere?

Long Distance: Keeping In Touch With Your College Student

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:59:00 +0000

A new school year is starting or has already begun for many college-age around the country. Some will stay close to home to attend school while working a part time job but for those who will travel to another state, staying connected to church can be a challenge. What can your church do to help their student continue to grow in their faith while being away from home? Here are a few things some churches are doing.

Keep Them Informed On What Is Happening Back Home. With so many ways to keep in contact and connected, you should use all available technology to make them feel like your right down the street. Some churches have set up accounts (tweeter, etc...) that provide easy access for their student to stay connected with the news from back home.
Does Your Church Have A Facebook Page? Most people are Facebook users and it's a fun way to communicate back and forth. One church post pictures of their events and encourage their college students to post pictures of what events that are taking place at their school.
Care Packages. This is old school but it still works! Whether it's from the 6th grade class or from the college group back home, a care package is always a welcomed surprised. And be creative. I don't know any student who wouldn't love gift certificates to a local fast food restaurant that is a few blocks from their dorm.
Road Trip. Go on a collegepalooza road trip. I know of youth pastors and youth workers who have done this and have had a great time of encouragement with their student. One youth worker connected with 15 from his college group over one weekend...and that was hitting 5 campuses!
Keeping A Personal Touch. It's important to keep it genuine and personal. My church use to call me "live" during the church service when I was attending college. Share prayer requests, God's word, or just to listen to what he/she is encountering at school, and you can do this via tweeter, texting, Facebook, or over the phone. Just be consistent.

There are many other ways to help that student remain connected to the Body of Christ, so start thinking and be creative with your college ministry. Just because they've left your group physically doesn't mean that they can't be a part of the group spiritually.

Hipster Christianity

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 23:32:00 +0000

Never heard of this term before? A little strange putting these two words together. Kind of like combining "Cubs" and "winning" as one. That seems even more of an oxymoron. Well, no need to look for it in Webster or Google the term, you can just buy the book by Brett McCraken called hipster christianity. Brett is a self described hipster who happens to be a Christian. Hipster is a term pretty close to "cool" but is better understood in the context of a subculture. According to Brett's definition, hipster is seen as "fashionable, young, independent-minded, contrarian." It is a growing subculture among mostly white, middle/upper class, educated young Christians, that doctrinally sways from Reformed to Emergent, and congregate around Christian colleges in urban centers.

What's important to know about this group is the impact they are having on new and younger urban churches. Some of our fastest growing and largest churches in America would be consider hipster churches (RockHarbor, Mosaic, both Mars Hill churches, and others in this vain). Culturally, hipster Christians are no different then others who run in this group. They are passionate about the arts, love fashion (think "skinny" jeans), indulge in drinking and taking the occasional drag from a cigarette, indie music (Jars of Clay is playing in my office as I write this), and somewhat active concerning social issues. Add Jesus to the mix and you have Christian Hipsters.

The book begins by taking us through a history of "hip" that at times leaves you to wonder where he is going, but eventually he zeroes in on his point. And what exactly is that point? The question of whether or not Christians could be or should be hip? The book centers around the Church's crisis of defining who we are (identity) and of how much should we as Christians be relevant to the culture we live in. McCraken, with a keen and thoughtful insight into a world of young culturally sensitive Christians (he is in his twenties), hashes out the problems and struggles of a modern Church trying to connect to a generation who lives in relevancy. You might be surprised in the direction he takes you as he evaluates his generation, church culture (both modern and postmodern), our search (the Church) for significance in the 21st century, and his answers to the questions he raises.

A great read for those of us who are interested in His Church. It's nearly 250 pages but I read it in three days, and that's including taking breaks listening to Over the Rhine and Bob Dylan. In a time when our country is going through so much upheaval, we as His Body and Bride can be pointing to a Hope that will never fade. Or as Brett would put it,"True relevance...does not fear unpopularity. Because it clings to eternal truths, relevant Christianity doesn't hurt when people don't smile and nod affirmingly at everything it says. It doesn't flinch when accused of being "out of the loop" or "behind the times." Accusing something eternal of being behind the times is, of course, laughable." And that makes me smile.

What Makes Momentum So Awesome?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:16:00 +0000

Last night at my church, I had the opportunity to share about my recent trip to Momentum conference. When you come back from a long trip, most people want to know how things went. They want to hear if you enjoyed your time or why you took the trip on the first place. So, having the chance to share more than just the normal few seconds of responding to a "trip" question, I shared what makes Momentum so vital to our Fellowship of Grace Brethren churhces.

First, it's about Jesus. We all know why we came. We came because we have One Person in common and that is our Great God and Savior, Jesus. Second, It's an amazing conference that draws young people together to worship, grow deeper, serve, and commit to their God. Third, it's more than a conference. It is an environment that encourages young believers to look beyond themselves and to see that they can (and do) make an impact on a dying world for Him. Fourth, it helps young Christians see that the church (local & universal) is not only important but a way of life for all believers. They are not an island unto themselves but a body connected together. Fifth, it is the future of the Fellowship. When I asked the college-age people how they came to Christ, more than half of them responded that Momentum was a significant reason why they are still followers of Jesus. These young believers are in Grace Brethren churches. They are going back to their home church to start small groups, disciple young people, live lives that please their God, and will some day be leaders in your church.

That's what makes Momentum so awesome and vital for our Fellowship. If you had some young people that attended Momentum, stop and ask them what impacted them at conference. I think you'll be very encouraged by what you hear.

Millennials: Now That We're Young Adults..?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 22:28:00 +0000

About ten years ago, a book was written about a generation graduating from high school and the impact this group would have on the cultural landscape of our nation. Millennials Rising:The Next Generation, written by Neil Howe and William Strauss, was a groundbreaking work that introduced us to the first youth generation of the 21st century. Since that time, other books have been written, research conducted, news programs aired, and TV shows have all highlighted the positives and negatives of the generation we know as Millennials, Gen Y, Netgen, Generation We and countless other names that have been given but have all been rejected by this age group.

Now, ten years since Millennials Rising, we are seeing the first youth generation of the 21st century move into the middle of their young adult years. They are in their late twenties, some married, a few with children, and all are doing their best to make these rough economic times as painless as possible. We are finding that they have similar aspirations as their parents but with their own twist. They expect to be home owners before their first child is born. A well paying job that they enjoy going to every morning. Family (whether their own or connection with parents) is extremely important to their overall adult experience, and they are hoping to achieve, if not more, as much as their parents did at their age.

What are they finding? Well, this isn't their parent's world. Owning a home is not as easy as the Home & Garden channel lets you to think. Jobs? Highest unemployment since the Cubs won the World Series. The family is still important, especially since many have had to move back home because of financial difficulties. And that "living better" then mom & dad dream is quickly turning into a nightmare. What they are finding is the feeling they are in a rut. Moving forward is a little tricky right now and they sense that it's not going to get any easier. What they really are looking for is a way through all this unknown. A guide to walk them through the tough times. Someone to be a sounding board of their thoughts. A Yoda.

As we move into a new century with all its perplexing world views, the Church is debating its role to a younger group of adults and its significance it has in their lives. With the continuing urbanization of America's suburbs, the decline of religion in our country (we do see an increase in going to church but that tends to rise during crisis), and the shifting ethnicity of our culture, the Church is changing and giving young America many options of "doing & being" church, but not many of these options seem to be sticking. To be sure, not all that they believe is necessarily right, and they know this. They are searching for answers, even if the way they search is new to an older generation of church goers.

I have a very deep love for this age group. It mostly comes from knowing so many of them because of my youth pastor years, college staff days, and high school ministries I led. It's all coming full circle for me. Many of them are in their mid twenties and early 30's. Some of them are very close friends. All of them are adults and I can relate to much of what they are going through. I don't think it is up to me to create the church for the 21st century, their Church, and even if I did, once I leave this planet they would redesign it to fit their world. I do believe that it is my responsibility to walk along side them and to help them to walk deeper in Christ. College-age ministries has a shelf life. We can only stay in that time of life for a short period and then we move on to adulthood. The Church needs to be a part of that time of transition for this age group. We can help them through their college years into the next phase of their lives. Call it what you want, passing the torch, handing off the baton...how we mentored and discipled a younger generation will be clear to see for generations to come.

Fusion at Momentum 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 23:07:00 +0000

A quick reminder that Fusion will be taking place at Momentum Conference this summer at Cedarville. Fusion is a ministry geared to training and equipping college-age people (18-24) to be on mission for Jesus, and is part of CE National's conference experience at Momentum. Some of the speakers that will be at Fusion include Mark Cahill, Greg Speck, and Mark Batterson. You'll also have the chance to take part in We Care Projects and We Care Miami Valley, a ministry service outreach to the surrounding Dayton area. If you are a youth worker looking for a service oriented and training ministry to take your college-age group, or a young person that fits in this age range, you can contact CE National at its Momentum web page for more information.

Religion and American Young Adults

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Thu, 20 May 2010 16:57:00 +0000

The most comprehensive research on young people and religion in America has been completed, and much of what it shares is a warning for Christianity. The project is called the National Study of Youth and Religion (NSYR) and has been funded by Lilly Endowment Inc., the University of Notre Dame College of Arts and Letters, and the John Templeton Foundation. The study covers ages 13 through 29 over a decade long period of research and focuses in on a number of key characteristics of religious life among young adults. Christian Smith, Director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame, leads this project as well as the two books written on this recent study, Soul Searching: The Religious Lives of American Teenagers and Souls in Transition: The Religious & Spiritual Lives of Emerging Adults.

In Souls in Transition, Smith taps into four main themes that reveal the thinking and beliefs of emerging adults. These "macro social changes" are seen as the catalyst in young Americans shifting religious culture. These changes can be found in the dramatic growth in higher education, the delay of marriage for American young people (this is not exclusive to America but also seen in other developed Western cultures), an unstable world wide economic system, and the longevity involvement of parents particularly in the area of financial support. Souls in Transition mainly deals with 18 to 23 year old with the intention in the future of publishing their findings of late young adult years (ages 24 to 29).

Why should Christians read these books? Well, the conclusion that you may come away with is that the Church in America is not only misunderstanding this emerging culture but is not prepared to engage with them. You won't read that in Smith's writings but you can't miss the obvious outcome from their work. The research is not intended to make the Church feel bad or hopeless about the situation but it is a wake up call for churches to take notice of the changing landscape of young adults attitudes towards Christianity. Churches today can still be a vital part in young peoples lives as they live Christ out. It may take awhile and a new vision from God in connecting with this mission field but there is hope for those that see God still engaging in this world.

More Books For the High School Graduate

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Mon, 10 May 2010 17:12:00 +0000

Two more books that I think would be a great gift for any graduating high school senior are Campus Voices: A Student to Student Guide to College Life, written by Paula Miller and Paul Buchanan, is a gathering of essays from college students that deal with topics from the basics (study time habits) to the spiritual. A great devotional book that has a place to journal after each section. The second book was written by Paul Buchanan and is entitled Student to Student. It's very similar to his previous work but with different stories and insights by current college students. You might want to read through both these books to see which one would be the better gift for your student...or buy them both. You can't go wrong.

Books For the High School Graduate

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Wed, 05 May 2010 20:34:00 +0000

Graduating from high school is a great achievement and should be celebrated as if they just won the Super Bowl, but it's just the beginning. For many young people, college will be the next step they will take in the process of developing into young adults. So, how do you prepare them for this next journey? Here are some great books that will get them (and you) on the right track.

Welcome to College: A Christ Followers Guide for the Journey by Jonathan Morrow.

Whether you are a college-age person, work with this age group or a parent, everyone should read this book. Jonathan Morrow speaks from real life expericnce as he shares his insights with student and those who are significant in their life. Here's what you'll get:

Very practical with a wide variety of topics (from "Living with a messy roommate." to "How can I know God exists?").
Mostly aimed at Christians who are attending a state school or university. Still, very good for all students no matter where they go.
Has discussion questions at the end of chapters. Great for a small group or for teaching.

How to Stay Christian in College by J. Budziszewski.

Budziszewski writes about how he walked away from God and what brought him back to his faith. Some great stories and insights that will encourage parents and students who wonder if their faith will stand up to a university culture (and that there is still hope for those who turn away from God during these years). He still works with college-age students as a professor at the University of Texas in Austin. You should also pick up his other book,"Ask Me Anything: Provocative Answers for College Students."

Can You Keep Your Faith in College?: Students from 50 Campuses Tell You How-and Why by Abbie Smith

I've had the privilage of speaking at a conference with Abbie and she's passionate about college students. What I love about this book is that it is written by college students for college students. Abbie has some great thoughts and words of encouragement as you read through real transparent and not always perfect lives of college-age people.

Neil Cole & Mark Driscoll: Helping Us to Rethink the Church

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 21:15:00 +0000

Our church is on that journey called "change." It's been about a year since we sold our property on the south side of our city. We were there for over 50 years ministering to our community through our people. We believe that the Lord still has a work for us, so we continue to seek Him as He leads us in a new direction of ministry. A few questions usually come up as you begin to evaluate and think through your church's ministry. First, what was our original mission? A long time ago, there were a few people who heard God's calling to begin His work in south Whittier. They had a dream and a calling that saw their intial work completed a year ago. Second, how do we find the new "us?" Once God has ended a work, I think it's natural for any church to see what the next step might be. Which leads us to our last question. Who does God want us to be?

A couple of books that some on our leadership team have been reading and that have been a great source of help are Neil Cole's book Church 3.0 and Mark Driscoll's (with Gerry Breshears) Vintage Church. Although Neil Cole and Mark Driscoll come from two different perspectives concerning church models (apologies to Neil Cole for calling Organic a church"model"), they do agree on two very important issues; that the Church lives for Jesus and that the Church is to make disciples of Jesus. If you're church is going through a season of change, get your leadership into the Word and bring along Neil Cole's and Mark Driscoll's books to help you along on your journey.

Is the Church of Jesus In Need of a Makeover?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 19:55:00 +0000

I read this the other day. It comes from D. A. Carson commenting about the Church and generations. He said that one generation believes a truth, the next generation assumes a truth, and the third generation denies the truth. Does this speak to our current situation in our churches? I wonder how much this statement rings true in the region we live. I still believe that the middle of our nation is prone to be more "Christan" than we are on the west coast. I don't mean that one group of believers is following Christ more than another, but that the Christian "religion" is more accepted in certain areas in our country than in other places. That's not necessarily a good thing. Doing "church" is religion without love and is not who we are, but being the Church of Christ is glorious and full of power.

As a westerner, I see our churches out here searching in need of an identity. It's one reason I believe we have so many models of church and why young adults are looking for a place to call Home. In his book, Vintage Church, Mark Driscoll points out how quickly we have forgotten in how to pass along our faith to the next generation. There are two things that I have noticed with churches in Southern California, and I'm not claiming to have perfect insight, but I do talk with many college-age people, church staff workers, and pastors who minister to young adults. Churches are struggling to connect, pass along, or hold on to their young people. However you like to put it, a younger generation is leaving their faith. Second, there is a lot of criticism about the Church. Critiquing is one thing but to bash Christ's Bride is something far different.

If we are to stop the exiting of our young people, let alone to reach a younger generation, we need to understand who we are in Jesus. The Church is God's plan to draw the world to Himself and He chooses no other way. That's an amazing truth. We can develop the greatest college ministry or create small communities of young adults but unless we understand the unique beauty of His Church and how to pass that to another generation, we're only fooling ourselves in thinking we're accomplishing His mission.

This blog has moved

noreply@blogger.com (CE National) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:51:00 +0000

Bob is now blogging at cebobsblog.blogspot.com.

Church 3.0: Neil Cole's Upgrading of the Church

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 01:08:00 +0000

The subject of the Church and its relevancy in this new century has been a hot topic among pastors, church leaders, and church planters for over a decade. As a younger Millennial generation creeps into their late twenties, those churches who once were filled with a post WWII generation are being ignored by a postmodern urban-hip spiritual seeking community. Neil Cole, a founder of Church Multiplication Associates, has just released his new book, Church 3.0: upgrades for the future of the church, which plots out a rethinking of what the church should be for a new century.

The book focuses in on the need and reason to "upgrade" on how we do church today. Just as we upgrade to a "new operating system," the Church today needs to do the same in order to continue being the vibrant Bride of Christ. You may not always agree with his perspective but his insights will challenge you in how we think about the Church. The first half of the book deals with how Organic churches are needed to revitalize God's mission for the next generation, while the second section of the book covers more practical workings of Organic churches. A younger group might find the Organic Movement more appealing to them then an older congregation, but both groups will see the need to be more of what Christ desires for His Church. This is a book that I believe every church leadership should read and discuss, especially if you are looking to pass your faith to the next generation of believers.

College Ministries Evolution

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 02:27:00 +0000

I just returned from Indiana this past Friday and I'm almost caught up with my emails but you never know about these things. I had a wonderful time catching up with old friends and seeing all the good that they are doing for the Lord. Thanks to CE National for their leadership in hosting this seminar and a big thanks to Tim Wright, Tim Clothier, and Rich Yauger for doing a great job in the organizing and planning of the event.

During one of the afternoon sessions, I was reflecting on what was shared by the speaker and youth workers. We have come so far from the early days of youth ministries and the many men and women who guided those ministries. A lot has changed from those days and youth ministries will continue to change. One place I think about is how the adolescent years are now including sixth grade or as it's called today "Middle School." Just as adolescent years seem to be coming earlier, it also seems to be lasting longer. Many believe that late adolescence is moving into the college years (ages 18 to 23). I truly believe that youth ministry as we know it today will evolve to include college-age.

If this is true, and I believe it is, we'll need to rethink student ministries. What will be the challenges for churches in hiring and developing workers for this age group? Training for youth workers will be a key component in developing a strong discipling ministry. Are we ready to face a challenge for the future of the Church? I think so. Good to know that ministries like CE National are around to help come along local churches in support of the Great Commission...going and making disciples.

Young Adults Worried About the Future

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:39:00 +0000

A recent survey revealed that young adults are more worried about their future then was previously thought. Harvard's Institute of Politics conducted the survey, which was headed up by Knowledge Networks, that included over 3,000 interviews of 18-29 year old. Questions ranged from how well of a job President Obama was doing to how they felt about the economy and how it affected them personally.

Here are some of those results.

47% of ages 18-24 believe that their financial outlook is very bad compared to 42% of 25-29 year old.
A little less than half (46%) believe they will be better off than their parents.
The number one concern was meeting their obligations in paying their bills (60%).
Second on that list was affording a place to live (58%) and not able to pay for health care (56%).
Nearly half wonder how they will be able to stay in college (45%).

Stress is a part of every day life but it does seem that younger people encounter it at an earlier age with each generation. What can churches do to help young adults navigate through this world that they are inheriting? How is your college ministry showing God to be real and powerful in an age of questions and doubt? A great opportunity to begin a mentoring ministry in your church in walking along side younger adults.

A Gathering of Leaders: CELS March 22 -23

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 03:01:00 +0000

CE National is hosting its second annual CELS event. CELS is CE Nationals' leadership seminar that is geared towards youth pastors who are looking to connect with other young leaders across the country. I attended last years CELS and came away with a ton of great thoughts and free goodies (like a sweet TNI sweatshirt that I'm sure I'll need to take for this trip). I'll be there again for this year's seminars and look forward to reconnecting with good friends.

One of the reasons I enjoy the event is that it helps me to see the future direction of college-age people. Although CELS deals mostly with junior high and high school ministries, most of us who work with college-age recognize that this age group is still developing as late adolescence (Arnett). There are some studies that see late adolescence reaching into mid-twenties (Time, 1/24/05). Whether you agree with this observation or not, I still get the chance to hear and see what today's youth workers see as the main issues facing young people. My own belief is that youth ministries should and will expand its definition to include college-age (18-23).

If you would like to come and join us for this two day event, you can contact CE National office for all your registration information. If you register in time you might even get a room at the Philemon Center. I hear they have a hot tub and a refrigerator that is always full of snacks.

What Your Web Page Says About Your Church

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 20:11:00 +0000

Every so often, I like to check out what other churches are doing, so I browse their web pages clicking on icons that take me deeper into their community. Some churches are very creative in how they set up their web page. I like it when I search a church, click onto its page, and come to a blank screen that reads "downloading." Within a few seconds a scene bursts open onto the screen. It could be an artistic scroll that unfolds into a postmodern symbol or an ocean scene with a family walking on the beach (you see a lot of those from California churches). The icon tabs are discreet and easily identified with a variety of church ministries.

Usually, I go to the ministry section to see how they serve their community. Some pages are more elaborate than others but all give the basic information that would help anyone who is looking for a church that might connect to them. For a younger generation a "post-mod" web page can generate a curiosity to explore more about your church. Even a staff page can be a reason for them to consider attending your church (you know...an "urbanish" black and white pic with a young staff and an older pastor with the shaved head). Most young people will look for a couple of things while searching your web page and they all have to do with social networking. Connecting with others, especially with their own age group, isn't anything new but how a younger group of people connect includes the Internet. Here are a few ways that churches are trying to reach this generation through their church web site.

Video or video chat
Web-based small groups
Blogs
Social networking sites (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter)
E-invites or E-vites
E-newsletters
Satellite (multi-sited churches)
podcasts
mp3
Webinars

ED Stetzer's "Lost and Found"

While some of these ways of reaching young people will decrease the Internet as a tool to connect and communicate with twentysomethings is a part of everyday life for them. So, how is your church seeking ways to be a part of their world through the one place they all gather as a generation?

The Benefits of Cross-Generation Small Groups

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:12:00 +0000

Small groups are a great way in connecting your church, especially since people in and outside the church yearn for community. Most small groups are done by choosing to gather with friends or by similar age grouping (parents with young children, senior saints, etc...), but a weakness in this is that the church becomes segregated by age-level communities. Churches that are mixing their small groups generationaly are finding that it is strengthening their church. One of the benefits is sharing faith from one generation with another. This is a great way of passing the "torch" of Christianity from older to younger. Here are some insights that will help you process multi-mix generations for your small groups:

Benefit of life experience from older adults.
Benefit from energy and passion of younger adults.
Provide a natural conduit for mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Provide child-rearing assistance for younger adults.
Provide application and the sense of being needed for older adults.
May be linked by geographical location.
May be linked by interests or hobbies.
May be linked by a desire to study a particular book of the Bible.
Strengthen the overall ministry of the church.
Provide needed group care and pastoral type shepherding.

What Do Your Young People Think About Their Church?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 03:46:00 +0000

Recently, I met with some of our church's college age people to see if I could get an answer to a question I had. Our church is going through a time of reevaluating our ministry and I wanted to see how they and those of their generation felt about church. We met in our temporary rented office, which I tried to make as "artsy" (my CD player playing contempo worship) as you can considering where we were meeting. I brought some pizzas, a few drinks, and a note book to record the night and for the next couple of hours we talked about the church.

With college-age you never know what you're going to get but these guys came ready to share. They were open and honest and loved to laugh. Their views were insightful and well thought through. In fact, I was really encouraged with what they had to say. They no doubt knew what they liked and didn't like about the church. For me, the best part of the evening was getting to know four individuals outside of Sunday morning.

It's important to know what younger people are thinking about their church. I always hear from older church attenders,"how can we keep our young people?" and my answer to their question is ask them what they like or don't like about their church. The key is to ask with the willingness to listen. Some of their answers I had heard from other college-age groups but some of what they shared was new to me. There are a number of churches (buildings) in our area that are up for sale and some congregations will most likely dissolve, but I have a hunch that if they would have asked this simple question to their young people, they might have avoided the final outcome of their church.

What To Look For In A College-age Leader?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 00:20:00 +0000

Looking for someone to lead your college-age ministry? Well, so are a lot of churches these days. Churches are seeing the need to train and reach this transitioning group of young people as they head towards young adulthood. So, what should you be looking for in a person(s) who will be investing in the lives of young people?

Character - I know this seems like an obvious starting place but some times we assume that a "good" church going person already has this in place. Spend time observing potential leaders. Ask church members you trust who they see as potential leaders for this group. College-age people are bright so ask a few of them who they see having godly qualities. Character is not something that everyone has but is needed when it comes to discipling the future of your church.
Relational - When I was in college, there were a few older adults that hung out with us in the church I attended. I don't remember the names but I do remember the impact they made in my life. One couple in their forties (is that old?) lived across the street from my dorm. Their home was open to us any time of the day or night. We had great Bible studies and prayer but it was the way they related to me that was influential. They liked spending time with me. These are key years in building relationships with college-age. A person or a couple that will pour themselves into their life will have a profound effect in their walk with Jesus.
Side by Side - They're moving from childhood to being young adults so walk with them...not in front of them. They look to older adults for guidance but they don't necessarily want to hear a lecture on how to live life. They observe to see if you have something of value to share. Look for someone who has listening skills. Like we've heard before...God gave us two ears but only one mouth. There's a reason for that.
Discipler - The Church is not about making "nice" people. We are to make disciples so look for someone who reflects that already. A discipler has a few qualities: they can teach with transformation in mind and they can lead with the purpose of training others to lead. So, you need someone who knows Scripture and can help those grow in the Lord. It's not only about information but transformation you want. Second, we need leaders in the Church. Where do you think leadership will come if you are not developing leaders at an early age?

These are just a few qualities that you should be looking for in someone who will lead your college-age ministry. Who do you see in your church body that might fit these characteristics?

Bringing Young People Into the Process of Your Church's Vision

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 01:26:00 +0000

When you are restarting your church's ministry (that Vision thing), one thing I suggest you do is to bring in college-age and young adults into the process. That's what we're doing at our church. Later this month, I'll be leading a "focus" group of young people on what they like to see our church become. I've lead a number of these types of groups but never one from my church. Now, you might be asking why is this important. Why should you involve a younger generation in shaping your churches future ministry? Because it's their future and not yours. It may seem obvious but when your church is at a new place in ministry and is seeking God's vision (i.e. trying to stop a decline in attendance), your not bringing back the 80's (or whatever church decade that was your peek). Though they still need older believers in their lives, your church's future is in their hands (with God's help). Here are a few thoughts when a church is reinventing itself.

Start a college-age/young adults Focus group.
Disciple college-age and young adults for leadership.
Bring young adults into your committees and let them help in the process.
What's your vision for college-age and 20-somethings for your church?
What will your church look like if you exclude 20-somethings from the discussion?
Be genuine. Don't ask for their insights if your not going to actively pursue them.
Consider hiring them on staff.
Listen when they share.

A Journal Of A Restart Church

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Our church is going through a "restart." It's the first time for me and for most in our church in processing and rediscovering the Mission and Ministry (vision) for us as a local body of believers. Like all churches, we have our peculiar circumstances that will guide some of our decisions, and there aren't many books that can cover all situations that we'll be going through. Too bad. I like it when I can find quick answers to my many questions. That's probably best that it's not always so easy. You hear those stories of miraculous endings that leave you to think, "if that can happen to them, why not me?" Each church has its ministry. That ministry can be shaped by the community you live in, those that God brings to you, leadership gifts, and other variables but ultimately it is God who gives the vision.

Right now my part is with young people and that's what I'll blog about. I'll continue to write about college-age ministries but I'll also be sharing about the journey our church will be taking. I'll be teaching about the church's' mission and ministry in a couple of our Sunday evening gatherings, and how a younger generation will affect that mission and vision. No doubt we'll be seeking thoughts and insights from others who might have traveled this road before us. My hope for myself is that God's word will be my main guide through the process. I'm a "gatherer of facts" and I love to hear what others will share about "being the church." Although useful in its place, this can be a snare for me. I find that I can depend too much on what others write about, teach on, or blog concerning the Church. Believe me, I have all the books on this issue but still I find the best place is Scripture. So, with that in mind the journey begins. Most of what I'll share will appear in this blog but I'll also post on my Facebook page...with pictures.

If you have any thoughts or questions about our restart, please feel free to ask. If you enjoy talking about the Church (or church), I would love to hear what you think. We're in a tremendous point in history for the Church in America and I believe a new outpouring of God's Spirit is soon to come. I don't think that's wishful thinking but a sense of seeing what He is doing with the love of His life. His Church.

What Makes Great Pastors and Churches?

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Hetzler) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 01:03:00 +0000

Charles Colson was asked the question on what makes a pastor great. He responded by saying,"They have a love for people in the church. They have a heart for discipleship, and that's what makes them great pastors." When asked what he tells inmates in his ministry to look for in churches his response was,"Number one is a church that believes in and preaches the Bible...Second, it should be a place where disciples are made...and number three, discipline. Discipline in terms of both holding people accountable and teaching."

I agree with what Colson shared and believe that more than any time of our history we are in need of great pastors and great churches. If I were to ask the same question to a Christian in their twenties they might say it differently but would likely agree with him. In fact, I do ask these questions of young believers and I know they would agree with him. There is a reason authors like Piper and Driscoll are popular among young evangelicals or that Puritan writers such as Baxter or Edwards are in demand on many evangelical college campuses (I was in a bookstore of one of these campuses and over heard two students talking about where they could find books by John Owens).

What are you teaching your young people in church? Don't be afraid of challenging them (and yourself) with deep and difficult teachings. Theology is not dead teaching (unless you teach like your dead). One of the most influential college age conference in America is called Passion. Some of the biggest names in modern worship lead thousands of young people at this conference, but it's not only the worship they come for, they also come to be taught in the Word. One of their favorite teachers at Passion is John Piper, a preacher in his fifties that looks more like an professor than an icon for young evangelicals. He not only preaches with heat but loves those that he teaches, and they can sense that from him. Great pastors love their church. Great churches love to teach. A winning combination for making great disciples. Nothing new here that can't be found in Scripture.