The greatest challenges for leaders in youth ministry during the COVID-19 pandemic are how to keep students engaged through online ministry and how to support students facing mental health challenges during this difficult season. We hope that the resources below will be helpful as you continue your ministry. Remember, you are not alone!
Mental Health First Aid
As students face separation from their social groups, growing anxiety, and now regular disruption, student mental health has become a main concern for leaders working in youth ministry. To become better equipped to respond to mental health issues and concerns among students, Next Gen recommends that youth leaders become certified in Mental Health First Aid for Youth.
This 6-hour certification course will better equip leaders to help students who are experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. You can learn more about Mental Health First Aid for Youth certification and search for courses here.
Online Tools
Many youth leaders use Zoom or a similar video conferencing tool to engage their students. Activities on Zoom for your youth ministry may include check-ins, games suited for an online format, Bible study, a movie night, or a cooking party.
- For instructions on how to best set your Zoom settings to ensure your gathering is secure, visit this page here.
- For similar instructions on Zoom as well as alternatives to use, visit this page here.
- For games and lessons that can be done online through platforms like Zoom, visit Download Youth Ministry.
- Videos are especially great resources to use for online ministry with youth. For fun, faith-based videos that could spark conversation and reflection for your group, visit The Skit Guys.
Need Additional Support?
If you would like additional, personalized support for your ministry, contact Mecan Payne. Mecan will help you get unstuck, explore new ideas, and connect you with further resources. Contact mpayne@gnjumc.org.