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LEADERSHIP PLAYBOOK

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Contents

1. Introduction

Welcome Letter ……………………………….……. 2

2. Understanding the Need

Top Ten Myths ……………………………………... 3

What Students are Dying for ………………….… 4-5

3. Philosophy

Student Ministry vs. Youth Group ………...……… 6

Discovering our Purpose…………………………… 7

Purpose Statement………………………………..… 8

Planned Values…………………………………..….. 8

Values Explained…………………………………..... 9

4. Programs

High School………….…………………………. 12-13

Junior High School Programs…………………….. 14

5. Training

Teens’ Explained…………………………...….. 15-16

Staff Responsibilities……………………………..... 17

Ministry Ideas……………………………………… 18

Creative Contact Work ………………………...… 19

Cultivating A Passionate And Pure Heart For

Healthy Leadership……………………………..20-22

8. Policy

Staff Application Process…………………………. 23

Sexual Misconduct ………………………………... 24

Counseling ……………………………………... 25-26

Medical …………………………………………….. 26

Crisis Response ………………………………...…. 26

Transportation …………………………………26- 27

Relationships ……………………………………27-28

Contact Work …………………………………….. 28

Movies/Music …………………………………... …28

Discipline ………………………………………….. 28

Events ……………………………………………28-29

Facilities …………………………………………... 29

Conduct/Staff Issues ……………………………... 30

Church Body ………………………………….. ….30

Graduating Seniors ………………………………. 30

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Dear Leader:

Welcome! I am very excited that you have taken a step in your faith and are willing to serve students in

ministry. Student ministry is, and always will be a dynamic, fun, gut-wrenching, emotional, frustrating,

exhilarating, and exhausting ministry. It will truly teach you to rely on God, and trust that He is in control of

the lives of our students. We may never see all the rewards and fruits of our labor, but know that God is giving us

a challenge, a responsibility, and a group of people to minister to, regardless of what the rewards are. In the

end, it is all for His glory, honor and praise!

The next several pages are designed to better equip you as a youth worker. You will learn about our philosophy,

values and programs. You will also learn some techniques about leadership, as well as gain an understanding of

some of the policies that make student ministries run successfully and effectively. Finally, this manual will keep

all of us on the same page by providing us with a unified understanding of why and how we do what we do.

So take the time to read through this manual. Pray through it, understand it, ask questions, and then begin to

apply it to your specific area of student ministries. This might seem overwhelming at first, but with a little time

to process, this will only make you more effective in ministry. Know that you are loved, prayed for, and have our

100% support in making you a successful minister.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at

work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!

AMEN…”Ephesians 3:19

Let the journey begin!

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Top Ten Myths about Being a Great Leader Working with students can appear to be very complex when actually it is not. Here are some of

the common misconceptions about working with students.

You must be young. It has always been my experience that older leaders bring great wisdom, maturity and experience

to any team. Students need to be exposed to Christians of all ages in order for them to see the

Christian life modeled.

You must have adequate Bible training. If you have been a Christian for a decent period of time, and have attended a bible teaching

church, and can show students places in scripture that you have learned from, that is a great

beginning. Further training is always valuable, but not required.

You must be perfect. I once heard “When you find the perfect church, please don’t go because you will mess it up!”

We are all sinners who have been saved by grace. Each day we are working out our faith to

become more like Christ, the ONLY perfect person. It is actually imperfections that keep us

humble, focused on God, and allows God to work through us.

You must be a captivating communicator. It was actually the Apostle Paul who told the Corinthian church that he preached the gospel with

fear, weakness and trembling, and that the only reason his message was captivating was because

it was the power of God who made it captivating! (1 Corinthians 2:1-4)

You must be able to act like a student. Students want a role model, not another friend. Enough said.

You must have plenty of free time. Use the time you have as an offering to God, and He will multiply the fruits of your labor.

You must know everything about the latest youth culture. We must always be learners. The day we stop learning is the day we stop living.

You must be wild, crazy, and dynamic. We need you to care, listen, challenge, support, serve and pray. It doesn’t matter what kind of

personality or energy you have.

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10 Things Kids Are Dying For

Give students ACCEPTANCE

Students need to know that we accept them for who they are, not what they do. Accepting

students the way they are lives out the love that Jesus has for them (they can see it, touch it, and

experience it). Acceptance is shown in remembering names, smiling, encouragement, and a

willingness to listen.

Give students AFFIRMATION

Students are desperate for encouragement; actually they are starving for it. We need to affirm

them for who they are, not what they do! True affirmation is seeing what God sees and

expressing it to them. The art of affirmation is finding them doing something right and

celebrating it with them. We need to affirm students publicly, privately, and perpetually.

Give students ATTENTION

Students are also desperate to be noticed…when we give students our attention, we give them

value and significance. We give them attention with:

TIME: Love is spelt T-I-M-E (most people never give kids time). Your presence

in their life communicates care and concern. Time is like a deposit into a bank

account… you can draw interest on your investment.

TOUCH: We touch student’s lives relationally, as well as physically (hugs, high-

fives, pats on the back.) We need to re-introduce appropriate touch as a

communication of care and concern.

RELATIONALLY: Phone calls, notes, email, IM’s… anything that shows

personal touch in the life of a student communicates value

HEART: We communicate with the heart by using our eyes/ears

EARS: Noticing the things that are said (listening is a language of love)

EYES: Noticing the things that are not said, but lie just beneath the surface

Give students MODELING/EXAMPLE

Who are the role models students are following today? Why? What role models do they really

need? Students need to see Christianity lived out in life. Discipleship is not a program

(knowledge-transference); it’s about life-transference! Students will watch your life… what will

they find there? Students don’t need adults that act like kids; they need adults that care about

them and are crazy about them… willing to open their lives to them to see Christianity “work”.

They may never remember the events we planned, but they will remember you… what will they

remember?

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Give students MEMORIES

Students need positive memories attached to church (too many don’t have them). Those

memories are things that they will always remember and will open up doors for ministry that

you’d never imagine. Be an initiator/proactive in building memories with your students.

Give students HOPE AND HEALING

Many students today are hurting, burdened, and broken, and they need forgiveness and healing in

their lives. They need to see the truth of Jeremiah 29:11-14… there is hope! Students need us

to be the voice and hands of Jesus in their lives, speaking forgiveness, healing, and hope…

helping them to see and receive it!

Give students RESPONSIBILITY

Students need to know that you believe in them… see their God-given potential! McDonald’s

trusts our students with money, product, and image… what do we trust them with? They need

opportunities to be involved and have life-changing responsibility. Giving responsibility begins

with us seeing their potential (what they don’t even see). We need to give responsibilities that

are MEANINGFUL, GIFT-APPROPRIATE, TIMELY and CHALLENGING.

Give students GENUINE COMMUNITY

Students need to encounter a community that is radically different from what they have ever

encountered. They need to walk away saying, “That was totally different than I expected… and I

want that in my life.” Students may be attracted by programs, but they stay because of

relationships, connection, ownership, and having their needs met (can only happen in

community). Students need to see a community with substance, connecting with the

transcendent God.

Give students an AUTHENTIC GLIMPSE OF GOD

What students need today is to truly encounter God and realize who He is. They need to see and

understand the character of who God is and how that impacts their everyday life (morality based

in God’s character, not rules and regulations). Once Isaiah saw who God was, he could see

himself for who he really is… THEN, he could follow God with reckless abandon (Isaiah 6:1-8).

What kind of God are we showing and offering to students?

Give students SPIRITUAL CHALLENGE

Students need someone who will challenge them to be all that God desires for them to be

(Ephesians 2:10). We need to “turn the spiritual corner” in our relationships with kids.

Spiritual challenge comes from:

Being in touch with their lives (relationship, attention, etc…)

Taking the opportunity to speak into their lives

Offering supportive accountability

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Youth Group Vs. Student Ministry The Rock Student Ministry is focused on building programs that are purpose-filled and aimed at

the right targets, which is philosophically different from a “Youth Group” mentality. The Youth

Group mentality says, “Keep things the same,” “Let’s just do something fun.” There is no

deeper intention, no permanent change in either students or leadership. A Student Ministry is

completely different in that the mind-set is geared towards strategic programming and

intentional, planned outcomes; such as developing Christ-like character in both students and

adults. Here is the difference

MAINTAINING A YOUTH GROUP BUILDING A STUDENT MINISTRY

Activity-driven Purpose-driven

Unclear vision Clear vision

Inward focus/content w/cliques Outward focus/seeks out lost (No heart for the lost) (While meeting needs of existing students)

Minimum growth Consistent growth

Songs and games Worship and prayer

Keep the traditions Asks “Why?”& “Is it working?”

Busy in the world Focused on kingdom work

Relies on the “paid” youth worker Empowers volunteers to do ministry

(Student Ministry for the 21st Century by Bo Boshers, p.81)

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Discovering Our Purpose

Biblical Purpose- “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that

prevails...” Proverbs 19:21.

This proverb teaches:

- Our plans might not be God’s plans

- God’s purposes are what will succeed

Therefore we vow:

- We will DISCOVER God’s purposes for ministry

- We will EMBRACE God’s purposes for our ministry

- We will COMMUNICATE God’s purposes for ministry

- We will put build LEADERSHIP into God’s purposes for ministry

Matthew 22:37-40- “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and

with all your mind.‟ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it:

„Love your neighbor as yourself.‟ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two

commandments.”

THE GREAT COMMANDMENT TEACHES:

“Love God with all your heart, soul and mind” is God’s purpose for Worship

“Love your neighbor as yourself” is God’s purpose for Ministry

Matthew 28: 18-20- 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, baptizing them

in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey

everything I commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the end of the age.”

THE GREAT COMMISSION TEACHES:

“Go makes disciples of all nations” is God’s purpose for Evangelism

“Baptizing them” is God’s purpose for Fellowship

“Teaching them to Obey” is God’s purpose for Discipleship

Therefore we vow: To commit this ministry to accomplishing these five biblical purposes

over the next five years & beyond:

Evangelism (REACH), Fellowship (CONNECT), Discipleship (GROW), Ministry

(SERVE), and Worship (HONOR)

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Planned Values

RELATIONAL APPROACH: Our goal is to follow the model of Jesus by building relationships

with people, and earning the right to be heard by a student. Programs only help us begin relationships,

and one on one times away from the programs strengthen them.

ENCOURAGEMENT: Each student receives encouragement by adults taking interest in them and

inviting them to be involved in an activity or conversation.

LAUGHTER AND FUN: The environment of fun and joy is created when people anticipate and

expect a good time. Ministry isn’t all serious and intense. We exist in order to teach people that being a

Christian is about living life to the fullest! That includes laughter and even fun.

ACCEPTANCE & AFFIRMATION: Relationships grow strong when people know they are

known, respected and loved for who they are. We build people up, not tear them down. True affirmation

is when we see each other the way God sees us.

TRANSPARENCY: As “salt & light” Christians, we are called to live a life where Christ

shines through us. We aim to be real, share hurts, struggles, successes, and failures. To be fake

is to not be genuine.

INVOLVEMENT OF STUDENTS: Students only take part in what they feel a part of. This

includes ministry. Therefore, students are given ownership by allowing them the opportunity to think, to

speak, and to act on what is going on in the student ministry.

OUTREACH ORIENTED: We exist to bring people into the community we are building and to

share the truth we have about Jesus Christ. If we are failing to do either then we have lost our focus.

NUMERICAL GROWTH: This value ties in with being outreach oriented. When we remain

inward, and do not welcome people into our ministry, we have lost our focus and purpose. Numbers is

not the end result, changed lives are!

SPIRITUAL DEPTH: As students grow in their relationship with Christ, they will become more like

Him, giving students depth, growth, and vitality in the Christian Life.

HOME-LIKE: An atmosphere that is casual and relaxed is the goal. When people meet us and

involve themselves in our ministry we want them to feel like they can kick off their shoes and just be

themselves.

INTIMACY: As we grow larger, we need to become smaller. Otherwise our ministry becomes

impersonal. We challenge students to get involved in a small group to build community with students

they can relate to.

PERSONAL PURITY & INTEGRITY: We challenge both students and leaders alike to live pure

and holy lives. We do not claim to be perfect, nor do we expect it; however we do expect the Holy Spirit

to work through our lives, revealing sin, and helping us rid it from our lives.

SENDING STUDENTS INTO MINISTRY: Our goal is to first bring students to a place where

they are spiritually ready to lead- and eventually bring them to a point where were can “unleash” them

into the world, where they will become faithful ministers and servants.

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Program Overview for Students

HANGOUTS: Hangouts help students build FRIENDSHIPS with other Christians. This might

include Rock n Java Coffee Shop, Movie Night, BBQ’s etc. Purpose: REACH

The Middle: The Middle is our midweek experience for Junior High. Hang Time, message

tailored to a students life, and of course games and prizes! Purpose: CONNECT

The Resistance: The Resistance is our midweek experience for High School. Hang Time,

Worship lead by our student band, message tailored to a students life, and of course games and

prizes! Purpose: CONNECT

WEEKEND EXPERIENCE: This is designed to go deeper in biblical principals in a small

group style. Lots of questions and interaction. Purpose: GROW

MISSION TRIP: Students will be exposed to missions to help them GROW in their faith.

Mission trip team members require a high priority and commitment level to their team. Through

a serving others, students will be challenged to a stronger faith commitment in their own life.

Purpose: GROW

STUDENT LEADERSHIP: Selected students, who show leadership potential, will be invited

to participate on Student Leadership. SL is designed to help students see they have leadership

gifts, and can serve in ministry. The goal is to motivate students in discovering their ability

SERVE their peers, and their high school campus. Students will see and experience servant

leadership being modeled throughout the weekend by people serving them. Purpose: SERVE

STUDENT MINISTRY TEAM: Selected students who demonstrate leadership ability will be

invited to SERVE on the student ministry team. Students will commit to serving their peers,

using their gifts in ministry, and learn how to have a presence on their high school campus. The

student ministry team requires a high priority and commitment level in time, character, and

leadership. Qualifications for this team include spiritual maturity, a willingness to commit and

serve in a ministry, and a non-negotiable monthly meeting. Purpose: SERVE

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Teens Explained (Shaping the Spiritual Life of Students by Dunn)

All early adolescents are individual persons, growing at an individual pace, in uniquely

individual ways.

Adolescence is primarily an interpersonal research project that seeks to answer the

question “Who am I?”

Adolescence is a time of transformation, not just a time of transition.

Adolescent spirituality is woven into the whole-person growth.

Adolescence is broken up into three parts: Early (13-14 years old), Middle (15-17 years old),

and Late (18-21 years old).

Early Adolescence- This stage is characterized by the ability to think abstractly, propose

hypothetical situations, reason logically, and look at issues from another’s point of view. These

new abilities allow adolescents to question inconsistencies they find in the world. They may

question their old beliefs of themselves, influential adults, and the world. (Jamie Comstock,

1994.)

Principles for nurturing early adolescents

Assist them in building supportive peer group friendships.

Create learning experiences that emphasize “doing the faith” in response to God’s

love.

Provide them with meaningful adult interaction in their daily lives.

Create opportunities for them to make contributions that highlight their individual

value to others.

Communicate clear moral boundaries and behavioral expectations.

Middle Adolescence- These teens are better acquainted with their new mental abilities,

but they apply them inconsistently. An example of this could be seen in a discussion with a

parent, where the teen has the ability to see the parent’s view, but stubbornly resists. This

resistance is often the result of the teen recognizing the parent’s opinion is not necessarily the

final law anymore. (Jamie Comstock, 1994.)

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Principles for nurturing middle adolescents

Mentor the middle adolescent toward authenticity and depth in their close

relationships.

Assist them in learning to own, experience and appropriately express their emotions.

Model moral maturities, teach moral skills, and nurture maturing moral reasoning.

Provide feedback, support and challenge as they establish their unique identities as

men and women of God.

Late Adolescence- These teens often have a handle on these abstract ways of thinking.

Communication takes on a different tone now. They are capable of role-taking or “walking in

the other person’s shoes.” Many late adolescents view adult opinions as acceptable and valid,

while maintaining that their own opinions are equally acceptable and valid.

Late Adolescents need for-

Intimate companionship:

Late adolescents are trying on adult roles.

A growing capacity for self-awareness prompts a desire to connect more

intimately.

The growing dependence on themselves for their lives compels them to pursue

intimacy with others.

Late adolescents are completing their path of foundational self-definition.

A compelling life vision:

They want to make a difference

To add something significant and lasting to the world

To make the world better.

A coherent worldview:

They want to bring together what they think and what they act on under one

vision.

Match faith with life

Composition of commitments:

Creating time for what is important

Evaluating past commitments, priorities, etc.

Evaluating what needs to change

Keeping the end in mind— what a person wants to be as an adult

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Leaders Responsibilities

MEETS & GREETS

Arrive 30 minutes before a program or event to spend time with students. Make them feel

comfortable and “at home” with eye contact, verbal greeting, and appropriate touch (high-five,

hand shake, hug, etc.) If there are new students, bring 1-2 regular students with you and make

sure you introduce yourselves. This is important in making sure we maintain a relational

ministry philosophy. Hang around 15 minutes after an even or program to say goodbye, set up a

meeting during the week, and thanking new people for coming.

INVOLVEMENT

Create a safe atmosphere that engages students and allows for them to interact with one another.

Many times, students will sit next to someone without saying a word until they are given an

opportunity to do so. (It’s always safest to stick to oneself.) Make it your responsibility to

oversee, lead, and model appropriate program behavior and participation during times such as

the competition, worship, small groups, discussions, or the message time.

FOLLOW-UP

We need to be in touch with students during the week!!! This might include a phone call, email,

Instant Message, or sitting down over a Coke. Remember, we value relationships not

programs! We succeed not when a student comes to a program or event, but when they are

connected, growing and being transformed by their relationship with Christ. This will only

happen if we are carving out some time during the week to be with them, and pointing them

towards Christ.

MONTHLY MEETING

Both JHS & HS staff will meet once a month for worship, prayer, information, training, and

fellowship. We ask that you make these meetings a priority, as they will be critical in helping

you grow as a youth worker.

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Ministry Ideas for the Time Conscious Volunteer If you have 15 minutes a week…

Write a note to a student

Make a phone call to a student

Drive a student home (See transportation policy)

Initiate two 1-on-1 conversations before/after a program

If you have 30 minutes a week…

Write a note or two to a student

Make a few phone calls to students

Drive one student home

Initiate two 1-on-1 conversations before/after a program

Go to thirty minutes of a youth event (sports, drama, etc.)

Have a coke with a student

If you have two hours a week…

Write some notes to students

Write a letter to a parent

Have lunch with a parent

Go visit a youth event (sports, drama, etc.)

Help someone with their homework

Start a small group

If you have four hours a week…

Volunteer to help a school team or club

Volunteer to drive to student’s events

Lead a small group

Plan/organize a JHS or HS event

If you have ten hours a week…

Read some youth ministry books

Take a Bible class

If you have twenty or more hours a week…

Get a life!!!!

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Creative Contact Work Ideas with Students

Go for a Coke or Ice Cream

Go to a sporting event

Have devotions together

Go skating/roller-blading/ skateboarding/ bike riding/ bowling/

horseback riding

Go to a school event

Go to a movie, or rent a video

Go rock climbing/ hiking/ skiing/ snowboarding

Ask them to teach you how to use their computer

Chat on-line

Tutor them on a difficult subject

Wash your car with them (or theirs if they have one)

Invite them over to dinner with your family or friends

Go to the mall

Do a service project together

Sponsor a child together

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CULTIVATING A PASSIONATE & PURE HEART FOR HEALTHY

LEADERSHIP Message taught by Doug Fields at PDYM Conference.

Building a Healthy Youth Ministry… It’s important to begin with the understanding that

There is a big difference between a HEALTHY

Youth ministry and a FLASHY youth ministry!

Health is the goal of a purpose driven youth ministry.

A HEALTHY YOUTH MINSITRY…

1. Requires TIME

Zeal without knowledge is not good; a person who moves too quickly may go the wrong way.

Proverbs 19:2 (NLT)

We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the

living God, who is the Savior of all people, and particularly of those who believe. 1 Tim. 4:10

(NLT)

2. Requires STRUCTURE and SKILLS

Since a dull ax requires great strength, sharpen the blade. That's the value of wisdom; it helps

you succeed. Eccles. 10:10 (NLT)

3. Requires TEAMWORK

“Each of us did the work the Lord gave us… the one who plants and the one who waters

work as a team with the same purpose. 1 Corinthians 3:5

4. Requires leaders to DEPEND on God’s power

Though the LORD is very great and lives in heaven, he will make Jerusalem his home of justice

and righteousness. In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of

salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. Isaiah 33:5-6

(NLT)

PRINCIPLE: “I CAN NEVER DO ENOUGH, BUT GOD CAN!”

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from

the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me. John 15:4 (NLT)

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BUILDING A HEALTHY YOUTH MINSTRY ON GOD’S POWER…

Jesus replied, "Your problem is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the

power of God. Matthew 22:29 (NLT)

1. A dependent youth ministry leader has access to God’s wisdom and DIRECTION.

God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart,

but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. Eccles.

3:11 (NLT)

Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do! And whatever else you do, get good

judgment. Proverbs 4:7 (NLT)

2. A dependent youth ministry leader will be SURPRISED with results.

Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely

more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. Ephes. 3:20 (NLT)

Awe gripped the people as they saw this display of God's power. Luke 9:43 (NLT)

3. A dependent youth ministry leader will recognize WHO provides them with the needed

STRENGTH to continue.

Although he died on the cross in weakness, he now lives by the mighty power of God. We, too,

are weak, but we live in him and have God's power—the power we use in dealing with you. 2

Cor. 13:4 (NLT)

GOD’S POWER IS REVEALED IN A HEALTHY YOUTH MINISTRY WHEN

LEADERS..

1. Hearts are PURE

Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do. Proverbs 4:23 (NLT)

An impure heart complains frequently

An impure heart compares with arrogance

An impure heart criticizes other’s styles and personalities

An impure heart is callous to God’s work

An impure heart compromises morals, ethics, and values

2. Faith is PASSIONATE

And my message and my preaching were very plain. I did not use wise and persuasive speeches,

but the Holy Spirit was powerful among you. I did this so that you might trust the power of God

rather than human wisdom. 1 Cor. 2:4-5 (NLT)

3. Attitudes are PLAYFUL

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Philip. 1:3 (NLT)

4. Commit to PERSEVERE

Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for

your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe. Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from

following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 (NLT)

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TO MAINTAIN DEPENDENCY ON GOD’S POWER

1. Daily, admit you’re INSUFFICIENT on your own.

Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor. Proverbs 29:23 (NLT)

Each time he said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness."

So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through

me. 2 Cor. 12:9 (NLT)

It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and

success come from God. 2 Cor. 3:5 (NLT)

2. Daily, get CONNECTED to the source of power.

"I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you

remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that

you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! John 15:9-11 (NLT)

3. Daily, exercise faith, and trust that God’s power will SHOW UP

What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the

evidence of things we cannot yet see. Hebrews 11:1 (NLT)

I did this so that you might trust the power of God rather than human wisdom. 1 Cor. 2:5 (NLT)

PRAYER:

God, I will do what it takes to get healthy!

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering

us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra

spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race

we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that

exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame,

whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. Hebrews 12:1-2(Msg)

Reflection:

1. How do you normally compensate for your weaknesses without relying

on God’s power?

2. What are some areas of your life where you feel a desperate need for

God’s power to show? Describe the last time when you felt God’s

power working through you.

3. What are the practical ways you rely on God’s power in your life?

4. What have been some of your greatest frustrations with your ministry

in the last few months?

5. Do you need to take action in any of the above areas? If so, what is your

next step?

6. Overall, are you a leader who is pursuing a pure heart and a passionate

faith?

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Leader Application Process

In order to help you, the students, and the existing Student Ministries Leadership, we do not

allow people to immediately begin serving; we ask that you complete a healthy process in order

to make your experience safe and meaningful. Note: Completion of the application process does

not guarantee a position in the ministry. Our heart is to help you discover where your best “fit”

will be within the church body.

Communicate Interest

You may have an interest, but are unsure as to where you can help, or you may have just

received a tap on the shoulder asking if you would consider getting involved. Some of the most

unlikely people make the greatest leaders; so take the next step as you prayerfully consider this

ministry.

Receive Student Ministries Material

We will send you a packet explaining the different areas of our student ministry including a list

of programs, meeting times and places, as well as the philosophy behind the programs. You will

also receive the application packet.

Interview with Student Ministries Pastor

This is an opportunity for you to share thoughts from your observations, describe your spiritual

journey, and discuss in more detail your gifts and desires for working in Student Ministries.

Note: Not every applicant will be placed in Student Ministries. Part of this process is to help

determine where you will be most fruitful in ministry.

Observe Programs

While you are still in process of completing the application packet, you are encouraged to

observe our programs. This is an important opportunity to get a feel for the ministry without

having expectations or responsibilities placed on you. You will have a chance to meet students,

other staff, and gather questions and thoughts for the upcoming meeting.

Complete Background Check

All volunteers must be complete a background check, as well as sign a “Standards of Behavior”

statement before they are sanctioned to serve. This is both student ministries and church policy.

Return Signed Commitment Sheet

Once you’ve decided you want to make a commitment, you’ll sign a commitment contract,

which lays out agreements and expectations for ministry. We will also make sure all of your

application material is received.

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Sexual Misconduct

In order to protect potential leaders and students from any accusation, whether true or false, a

Standard of Behavior regarding sexual misconduct has been established in order to identify

boundaries and guidelines while serving in student ministries. These standards are to be upheld

at all times.

Any verbal or nonverbal sexual innuendo with any student is inappropriate.

In order to avoid behavior being misinterpreted for inappropriate behavior,

leaders must use caution regarding physical contact. A hug is considered

appropriate, but stroking, massaging or an affectionate kiss could and will be

considered inappropriate. Any type of affection (hugs) should be made in a

public setting in front of other people.

“Three’s company” rule should be exercised as much as possible when doing

contact work. If the situation arises, and a leader needs to meet with a student of

the opposite sex 1:1, the following steps must be taken.

Consent from student’s parent must first be established

Meeting will take place in a public place (Mall, Restaurant, etc.)

Leader will communicate with the parent following the meeting (verbal thank-

you).

Leaders will not take any student on an overnight trip, unless it is a ministry-

sanctioned event.

Any knowledge or suspicion of any leader having an inappropriate relationship

with a student must be reported immediately to the student ministries pastor.

Sexual gestures to a staff member by a student should be reported to the student

ministries pastor so that a discussion can be held with the student.

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Counseling

Confidentiality

This is always a difficult boundary when working with students because as they trust you, they

will begin to share with you. Problems will arise when a student comes to you, asking you to

maintain confidentiality on the issues they share with you. 75% of counseling issues can remain

confidential. However, you are required to report IMMEDIATELY to the student ministries

pastor if:

A student is being abused sexually or physically

A student is threatening to hurt himself (i.e. suicide, cutting)

A student is threatening to hurt someone else (i.e. homicide, revenge)

Personal crisis/endangerment (i.e. Pregnancy, drug use, addictions)

When a student asks you to maintain confidentiality, DO NOT commit yourself to this promise.

You might want to respond by saying “I may or may not keep what you tell me confidential

depending on what you tell me; but hopefully you will trust me to properly handle the

information you share with me.” We would prefer a student to not tell you something, instead of

jeopardizing your integrity as leader with both the student, and their parents if they tell you

something that might need to be revealed.

How much counseling?

Most problems that students are dealing with can be addressed in one or two meetings. Do not

feel as though you are obligated or equipped to deal with something shorter or longer than those

meetings. If the problem is still an issue at the end of the second meeting, refer the student to

either the student ministries pastor, or a counselor.

Who do I refer them to?

In order that we recommend healthy counselors to students, please see the student ministries

pastor for the referral of a qualified Christian counselor. Do not refer a student outside this

policy (i.e. word of mouth, friend, experience).

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MEDICAL

Medical Forms

Medical forms are filed in a notebook in the student ministries office, and are to be brought on

ANY program or event, or scheduled trip. Medical forms are updated yearly by parents, and are

always downloadable off our website: http://alivestudentministry.com If a student does not have

a medical form at the time of departure of an event, they CANNOT participate in the event or

program. If they are able to have the medical form faxed to the church, they may do so, provided

it does not interfere with schedule conflicts.

Medical Kit

The medical kit is located in the student ministries office, and is to be brought on ANY program,

event, or scheduled trip.

Administration of Medication

We do not want students administering their own medication. All medication and information is

to be store with the medical kit, and administrated at the appropriate times. This includes

aspirin/Tylenol.

Medical Conditions Staff will be notified of medical conditions. If there is a certain condition that requires an

emergency medical response (i.e. Epipen), selected leaders will be trained in how to administer

the medication needed in that situation.

Medical Emergency

If a medical emergency should occur on a trip, and the student needs medical attention, the

parents must be notified ASAP. The designated leader will be responsible for transporting the

student to the hospital. The injured student may bring a friend with them only if a male leader is

transporting a female student, or vice versa.

Crisis Response

Definition

A crisis is considered any situation where urgent attention is required (accident, allegation,

student crisis).

Response

If a crisis takes place during a program or event, the following steps are to be taken:

Pray for wisdom, guidance, and quick resolution of the situation

Contact the student ministries pastor immediately

Isolate the incident from those students and leaders who do not need to be involved. The

program or event should continue as planned if at all possible.

If necessary contact proper authorities, as well as church leadership.

Contact the parents of the students involved in the crisis

Be available to help and serve in any capacity during and after the incident.

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Transportation Student Drivers

Students with a valid driver’s license may drive to weekly meetings (i.e. Fusion, etc.) Students

will not be allowed to drive themselves or other students to events. Transportation will always

be provided, with adult staff members driving the vehicles.

Cars, Vans & Buses

The student ministries pastor will determine between borrowing cars or renting vans and buses

based on the number of participants for an event. If a car is borrowed, it is to be cleaned and

filled with gas before returning to the owner (gas is reimbursable via students ministries budget).

Qualified Drivers

A qualified driver is an adult over the age of 21 or 25 when renting vans, and is based on the

insurance coverage of the vehicle. A qualified driver is an adult over the age of 18 with a valid

driver’s license when borrowing a vehicle from a member of the church. All drivers must have a

valid driver’s license, and should have a copy of their license on file in the student ministries

office.

Speed Limit

Drivers are to obey all posted traffic signs and laws

Traffic Violation

Student ministries will not reimburse any driver who receives a traffic violation on a trip.

Seatbelts

Seatbelts are to be worn at all times by both leaders and students. This is a non-negotiable

policy.

Driving Students Home

Driving students home can be a great tool in relational ministry, and encourage this practice.

Male drivers are allowed to transport male students, and female students are allowed to transport

female students. This policy can be modified on an individual basis, provided that there is

parental and pastoral permission.

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Relationships Staff Dating Students

Volunteer and paid staffs are not allowed to be in a dating relationship with students in our

ministry. If, while serving in this ministry a relationship begins, the leader would be asked to

step down from leadership.

Staff Dating Staff

Staff is permitted to date other staff, with the stipulation that both parties are above or below the

age of 18. This policy does not infringe on individuals rights, but protects students, as well as

maintains integrity as a ministry.

Co-Habitation

During overnight trips we ask that spouses room with students of their gender. Please speak with

the student ministries pastor if there are any questions regarding this policy.

Contact Work

Gender Issues

1:1 contact work should be done via the same gender between the leader and student.

Contact Work Locations Contact work should always be done in a public place, (i.e. shopping, errands, restaurants), or in

a place where there people around (i.e. home when rest of family is around). Contact work

should never be done in private places (i.e. home alone, parked car, weekend getaways). Please

see page 19 of this manual for suggestions on creative contact work.

Reimbursement

We will reimburse you for your expenses when meeting with a student (i.e. pizza, coke, mini-

golf). Please use discernment when planning meetings.

Movies/Music Selection

As a general rule, only PG and PG 13 movies are to be viewed for entertainment (i.e. movie

nights, contact work), however it is important that movies with those ratings be discerned and

previewed before viewing. Other rated movie “clips” may be viewed in a teaching scenario,

provided that there is no profanity or inappropriate material.

Secular music is permitted for outreach-based (Evangelism) programs, and long trips, however it

is a good opportunity to introduce some of the latest contemporary Christian bands too! Outside

of that, we want to encourage students to listen Christian music. Leaders always have control of

the music that is played (whether in vehicles or at programs). Use discernment as to what is

appropriate to play, and what is not.

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Discipline

General Responsibility

As leaders, you are given the authority to help deal with discipline issues. This includes asking

students to be quiet during a message or rebuking them for inappropriate behavior (in love, of

course). This especially applies during message times, and within your circle of influence (2

students in front of you, behind you, and to your left and right. If a student is disruptive, lean

over and asking them to keep quiet. If they continue, ask them a second time. The third time,

please remove them from the room and remain with them until the end of the message.

Assistance

It is not necessary for you to refer to the student ministries pastor for minor issues. When

something does become major, by all means give them the responsibility of the hard discipline.

This will relieve you of the “bad guy” label.

Events General Guidelines

All events must meet two criteria:

What is the goal and purpose of the event, who are we targeting, and what biblical

purpose are we trying to fulfill?

Approval of the students ministries pastor

The idea is not to limit ministry, but rather make the events we do intentional and purposeful,

especially when we are competing for space, time, and student involvement.

Leadership

All leaders are always welcome to participate in events within their respective age level. Some

events do not require several leaders (i.e. mission trips), and leadership will be determined based

on needs, and volunteer participation.

Staff Expenses

All admissions, registrations, parking fee, or other fees will be paid by student ministries for an

event. Student ministries does not cover: souvenirs, personal items, food (outside event food),

and extras.

Set-up & Clean-up

Please arrive at least ½ hour before an event to help with any duties necessary. When the event

is over, please help out by doing what is necessary to clean up, and be willing to stick around

until all students have been picked up by parents (this is great relational time!).

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Conduct/Staff Issues

Conflict

When you are in conflict with another staff member, go and try to work out your issue with that

person (Matthew 18). If the issue is ministry related, and you are unable to resolve your issue,

both you and the person you are in conflict with should speak with the student ministries pastor.

Do not gossip, or bring your issues to the rest of the staff.

Philosophy

The way we do ministry is not “the way” to do ministry, it is “a way” to do ministry. One major

way to avoid conflict, confusion and loss of focus is for new staff members to embrace the

current philosophy of ministry rather than try to reinvent it. We would expect any incoming staff

person to understand the philosophy before they sign on.

Church Body Student ministries is not a separate entity, it is ministry under the headship of Alive Church.

Student Ministries will always follow the philosophy, values, teaching, and leadership of Alive

Church.

Church Attendance

We expect all staff persons serving in student ministries to be worshipping on the weekends at

Alive Church.

Representing Alive Church

All staff is expected to represent Alive Church in regards to opinion, conduct, and support.

Graduating Students

Visiting

Graduating students are welcome to visit at weekly meetings, but may not maintain a regular

attendance. Graduating students who want to get involved should consider serving in student

ministries.

Serving

Graduating students are welcomed and encouraged to serve in student ministries. Any

graduating student interested in serving must complete the staff application process BEFORE

serving.