Youth: The Under-utilized Resource in Ministry

Abstract

The contribution and abilities of young people herein referred to as the youth is under-researched especially as regards their contribution in ministry. They are only appendages to adult ministry. This paper is in two parts. The first part of the paper proposes a review of the youth as emerging adults with immense energy, creativity, capability, knowledge, talent and gifting that can be utilized to serve ministry needs as productive members of society. In this part we look at the African conception of youth spirituality, the youth as mobilized resource that can push ministries to new heights, and how youth who are technologically savvy can increase visibility of churches and participate in the great commission. In the second part of this paper we propose a way forward that can help mainstream the youth resource in the mission of the church. We propose the following strategic engagements for optimal utilization and involvement of youth in ministry: a) Strengthen youth public policy making skills, b) Research-based youth ministry, c) youth as a key stakeholder in ministry, d) Broad-based youth ministry curricula and programs and e) youth volunteerism.