Revisiting Sunday School: Is It Still Relevant Today? | Beyond The Youth Room Podcast • Ep. 64

Ellen Hembree • January 7, 2025

Revisiting Sunday School: Is It Still Relevant Today? | Beyond The Youth Room Podcast • Ep. 64

Sunday School: Rethinking Youth Ministry in the Modern Age


In this episode of Beyond the Youth Room, Ryne and Keith discuss the challenges of traditional Sunday morning youth programs and explore alternative approaches to engaging students. Check out the podcast here.


Ryne shares his experience of eliminating Sunday morning youth programming at his church. He explains how this decision stemmed from a desire to foster a stronger sense of community and discourage the "check-the-box" mentality often associated with obligatory programs.


Keith, on the other hand, still runs a successful Sunday morning program. He emphasizes the importance of building community within the program, using examples like icebreakers, small group discussions, and creating a relaxed atmosphere with games and snacks. He also highlights the importance of focusing on relationships and discipleship over simply delivering information.


Key Takeaways:

  • Re-evaluate your "why": Question the purpose of your Sunday morning program. Is it truly effective in reaching and discipling students?
  • Prioritize community: Create a space where students feel connected and valued, rather than simply attending a class.
  • Consider alternatives: Explore options like serving opportunities, family worship experiences, or small group gatherings outside of the traditional Sunday morning slot.
  • Focus on relationships: Emphasize building genuine connections with students and fostering meaningful relationships within the youth group.


Ultimately, the goal is to find a model that best serves your specific context and helps students grow in their faith.

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Bridging the Gender Gap in Youth Ministry  Are you noticing an imbalance in your youth ministry? Whether you're dealing with more guys than girls or vice versa, it's important to create an environment where everyone feels included and connected. In this blog post, we'll explore some practical tips to help you bridge the gender gap and foster a thriving youth ministry. Understanding the Dynamics Women Build Relationships Face-to-Face: Women often connect through conversations and shared experiences. Men Build Relationships Side-by-Side: Men tend to bond over shared activities and common goals. Practical Tips for Youth Leaders If You Have More Guys Than Girls: Strong Female Leadership: Ensure you have strong female leaders who can connect with girls on a personal level. Create Space for Conversation: Provide opportunities for girls to talk and share their thoughts and feelings. Build Relationships Outside of Youth Group: Organize events and activities that encourage deeper connections. If You Have More Girls Than Guys: Vision and Mission: Establish a clear vision and mission that inspires and motivates both guys and girls. Balance Spiritual and Practical: Incorporate activities that appeal to both sides, such as Bible studies, service projects, and team-building exercises. Create Opportunities for Side-by-Side Connection: Organize activities like sports, games, or outdoor adventures. Remember, the key is to create a balanced environment where both genders feel valued and engaged. By understanding the unique needs and preferences of both groups, you can foster a thriving youth ministry that empowers young people to grow in their faith and relationships with others.
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