Re: Phase I Week 2 January 16-22

[P_fe...@yahoo.com]

I agree with you concerning learning about the world when you are
driving them to and from rehearsal, because it is in those
unconventional moments that trust is built and that the Gospel has the
greatest opportunity to be delivered to them.

On Jan 16, 7:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he
> mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to
> relate the Gospel to it.
>
> This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>
> On Jan 16, 10:43 am, New York Youth Leaders Association
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> <youthleaderstr...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > Dear students we are off to great start. However please DONOT start a
> > New Post when you submit your work. To reply click on the Heading of
> > that week, then click on reply at the bottom of the page to submit
> > your work. I look forward to reading your post. Remember to reply to
> > two students.
>
> > PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE AND GIVE A RESPONSE. DO YOU AGREE
> > WITH THE AUTHOR? HOW CAN THIS INFORMATION AID YOU TO BE MORE EFFECTIVE
> > IN YOUR
> > MINISTRY?
>
> > Hidden deep in the pages of the Old Testament you'll find a
> > description of a relatively small group of people who joined David and
> > thousands of other warriors to liberate the Ark of the Covenant. The
> > Chronicler describes these men of Issachar as people "who understood
> > the times and knew what men should do." (1 Chron. 12:32) As people
> > called to do ministry in rapidly changing times, we must embark on a
> > never-ending quest to know our culture and world. Theologian John
> > Stott challenges followers of Christ to engage in "double listening,"
> > by consciously seeking to hear both the Word and the world. Listening
> > to the world allows us to discover how best to relate the Gospel to
> > it. One large component of today's world that's largely ignored or
> > misunderstood by those of us in ministry is the unique world of our
> > children and teens. Youth culture is the soup they swim in every day.
> > From the moment they are born, kids marinate in a mix they absorb
> > through the "pores" of their life. Eventually, it all becomes a part
> > of who they are, shaping their values, attitudes, and behaviors.
> > Because we want to lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> > Incarnate Word, we must know their world. While the world of today's
> > youth culture is a complex and fluid place, here's a non-exhaustive
> > list of 10 current youth culture trends you not only need to know, but
> > that you might find surprising. Prayerfully "listen to" and ponder
> > each, thinking about the implications for your ministry, preaching,
> > teaching, counseling, etc.
>
> > 1. Advertising is a powerful shaper of kids. The typical child sees
> > between 3,500 and 5,000 advertisements a day, all of which are
> > carefully constructed by marketers to create a continuous need for
> > products by exploiting kids' anxieties and aspirations. Because of
> > where they're at developmentally, young people's lives brim with
> > anxieties and aspirations, making them especially vulnerable to
> > advertising. Marketing taps into their spiritual brokenness and
> > exploits it by promising redemption, fulfillment, wholeness, and
> > satisfaction through the purchase and use of products. In effect,
> > marketing substitutes a false gospel for the true Gospel we've been
> > called to communicate. But ads don't only sell a product. Their
> > greatest power lies in their ability to sell a worldview. They serve
> > as a map for curious young hearts and minds that are looking for
> > guidance that will shape their behavior.
>
> > 2.   Everything's happening at younger and younger ages.  This
> > phenomenon is known as "age compression." Marketers have actually
> > employed this as a strategy to expand a product's market by pushing
> > adult-type products, values, and attitudes on kids at younger and
> > younger ages. What's resulted is an environment where what used to be
> > for 18-year-olds is now for 6-year-olds. Today's 6-year-olds are
> > increasingly looking, dressing, talking, and acting like yesterday's
> > 18-year-olds. Some of the most direct effects can be seen in what
> > children at younger and younger ages know and believe about sexuality,
> > materialism, and violence. The children in your congregation are far
> > less innocent and far more jaded than their peers in previous
> > generations.
>
> > 3. They are engaging new media in new ways. Because they live in a
> > world where technology is developing at warp speed, today's children
> > and teens are more media-saturated and media-savvy than any prior
> > generation. Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18
> > spend a total of eight hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide
> > variety of media, including television, movies, books, magazines,
> > video games, computers, and music. Because they are using multiple
> > media simultaneously (yes, they do their homework while instant
> > messaging, talking on the phone, and surfing the Internet!), their
> > average daily media use is just under six and a half hours a day. The
> > amount of time spent in school, at church, and in conversation with
> > their parent pales in comparison. Not only that, but more and more
> > kids are using media alone in their rooms. Seven out of 10 have a
> > television, and one out of five has a computer. This means that family
> > viewing time is becoming a thing of the past. As a result, a growing
> > number of kids are processing everything they see and hear void of
> > adult input. In today's world, media is raising and shaping the kids.
>
> > 4. Family violence is rampant. It's frightening to think that much of
> > our nation's child abuse and sexual abuse goes unreported. What is
> > reported is frightening enough. It's believed that one out of every
> > four girls and one out of every six boys is sexually abused by the
> > time they reach the age of 16. Most of the abuse is perpetrated by a
> > parent, sibling, or close relative. In addition, studies indicate that
> > between 3.3 million and 10 million children are exposed to domestic
> > violence annually. These realities leave deep, life-long marks on
> > kids. Children who are exposed to or victims of family and sexual
> > violence are more likely to become perpetrators of violence
> > themselves. They're also more likely to exhibit a variety of health
> > and behavioral problems growing up, including depression, anxiety,
> > self-abuse, suicide, and drug and alcohol abuse. The home used to be a
> > place of refuge and a source of much-needed resiliency for kids
> > growing through the normal difficulties of the adolescent years. In
> > today's world, relational deprivation and breakdown is a mark of the
> > emerging generations.
> > 5. The nature of peer pressure has changed. I was 12 when I was first
> > exposed to pornography. My friends convinced me to join them, and we
> > hid and huddled behind a neighbor's stone wall to look at a magazine
> > found on the side of the road. We did what we did where we did it
> > because we knew it was wrong. Back in those days, peer pressure took
> > the form of a verbal invitation to come and do something that both you
> > and the person inviting you to do it knew was wrong. In today's world,
> > peer pressure usually takes the form of an unspoken expectation to
> > come and get involved in behavior that the overwhelming majority of
> > your peers think is normal and right. Today's peer pressure is much
> > more intense and difficult to resist.
>
> > 6. Materialism is a desirable lifestyle. The dawn of the new
> > millennium has brought increased economic opportunity and wealth into
> > the lives of children and teens. More and more kids are working long
> > hours, buying cars, and furnishing their rooms with the latest in
> > electronic gadgetry. Many have more monthly discretionary income at
> > their disposal than the average adult. Others are showered with
> > material "blessings" from over-indulgent parents. Young people are
> > going through their teenage years developing life expectations – and
> > related priorities – of having whatever they want, whenever the want
> > it. They are, and will be, accumulating debt at unprecedented levels.
> > Their present situation indicates that today's teens are building
> > their lives around the desire to possess things.
>
> > 7. Oral sex is big. Researchers are just now beginning to look more
> > seriously at oral sex and teenagers. The practice has become so
> > prevalent amongst teens – especially among middle school students –
> > that it's considered to be a recreational activity that takes place
> > casually and without any sort of dating relationship, either when
> > alone with another person or in groups. The most recent data indicates
> > that among 15- to 19-yearolds, more than 55 percent of the boys and
> > more than 54 percent of the girls report giving or getting oral sex.
> > By the time they reach the age of 19, three-quarters of all teens will
> > have engaged in...
>
> read more »

[Jbl...@yahoo.com]

There is a lot I agree with in this article. In this millennium age,
we youth leaders have to remember that times have changed. Some of the
methods of the past are not relevant in this era. This generation is
born into a fast paced, “I”-solated era (iphone, ipod, etc). They are
often left to themselves to create a world in which things go their
way (facebook, Sims,etc.) In addition to this, too many options are
presented to youth at tender ages or forcing them into deeper
isolation→all in all, THINGS HAVE CHANGED! Using the methods of the
70’s, 80’s, or 90’s may not be so effective with youths today.
While there is a lot of information presented I believe what was
stated in point # 3 was quite shocking “Researchers report that on

average, children ages 8 to 18 
spend a total of eight hours and 33

minutes a day exposed to a wide 
variety of media”. Media has
literally taken over this generation. What we leaders must remember is
that we can’t expect our youths to come to church to sit and listen to
a lecture. Given the rapid pace at which technology operates, most do
not learn or pay attention to a lecture style lesson. We have to learn
to use creativity! The best way to find out what they really want is
to sit them down over food (which they love) and ask them topics of
interest. This will show them that you are truly interested and gives
them a voice when many times they are over-looked.
We also have to realize that we have to teach our youths how to work
with the tech era that they live in. We know and see the enemy at work
through digital devices. In addition to this, like the article state
we also the rise of see family issues/problems, peer pressure, and
what I call the “wanna-be” spirit (trying to keep up with the
Jones’)as well as other temptations engulfing them at every turn.
There are too many things thrown at them, too soon forcing them to be
adults. They can’t handle all of these things because they lack the
essentials. In the words of Rev. Rattry “adolescents are adults with
less sense”. A large majority of youths at their tender age are not
yet equip with the appropriate problem solving strategies. As a
result, they say or behave inappropriately. Can we blame them? What
can/should we leaders do?
This question is one of the most important questions in our ministry.
Understanding the information presented in this article as well as
trying to accurately answer that question I believe will aid in
allowing our youth ministry to be effective. Being a public school
teacher, I see evidence of the information stated in this article. It
is sad to look and see youths heavily burdened, but not disheartening
when looking up to God. Reading this article challenges us to do our
best for them. One thing we teachers are taught in college, is that
each student learns differently. The same method cannot be used ALL
the time. The statement must be applied with this generation, the same
“old-time” method cannot be used all the time.

> have engaged in oral sex. When asked if oral sex is "sex," many young
> people answer "no." The reason? You can't get pregnant from it.

>
> Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> total of eight
> hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> including television,

> movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> Mueller)
>
> 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,
> media, and family pressures has made the teenage years more difficult.
> The constant barrage of confusing messages and expectations can be too
> much of a burden for some teens to handle during the normal adolescent
> developmental shake-up, especially when parents are absent or ignorant
> of what is going on in their lives. One study of students in grades
> six, eight, and 10 found that 18 percent of youths reported symptoms
> of depression. Our children and teens are at increased risk for being
> more than down in the dumps. Teen depression has reached epidemic
> proportions.
>
> 9. There's little difference between churched and unchurched kids.
> There's a sad and sorry trend I've been noticing more and more over
> the past several years. Increasingly, kids from Christian homes and
> churches are looking more and more like their mainstream teenaged
> peers – and less and less like Christ. While many of these kids claim
> allegiance to Christ, their values, attitudes, and behaviors indicate
> there's a disconnect between their stated faith and daily lives. This
> reality is reflective of a growing trend among Christians of all ages
> who are failing to integrate their faith into the place where it
> rightfully belongs – all of life. Sadly, more and more students are
> living disintegrated lives with their faith saying little or nothing
> to how they relate, learn, date, play, and work, etc.
>
> 10. There's a deep hunger for heaven. While my focus has been on some
> of the more negative and troubling youth culture trends, there is good
> news as well. Teenagers are displaying a God-shaped emptiness in their
> lives filled by God. If you listen and look closely, you'll see and
> hear it in their music, films, books, magazines – and even in their
> very lives. Even when they don't recognize it as such, we can rest in
> the assurance that their hunger is for God and the heaven we proclaim.
> Today's youth culture might not be a very pretty place, but it's the
> very particular place where Jesus sends us – his particular followers
> – to proclaim the life-changing Good News. Will you listen to their
> world?

[P_fe...@yahoo.com]

Amen. That is good. "The heart cannot rejoice in what the mind
rejects" many parents and leaders do believe that as long as their kid
is 'in' church they are good, that they are 'receiving' the Word. That
couldn't be far from the truth. I believe even the fact that an adult
takes the time to 'learn' a child's world (its ups and downs) that act
will prove to them somehow that this person has some type of interest
in them and might possibly even care for their well-being.
And yes, there is a lack of not "positive" role models but "godly"
role models for this generation. Many are doing church, but not living
it outside the four walls so the kids discredit 'church folks' and
follow the ones who are at least living out what they say 24/7, the
rapper, the drug dealer, etc... I agree we must live what we
preach. :)

On Jan 16, 9:49 pm, lol <lolafy...@msn.com> wrote:
> Well-said Sis. We have to move with the times in order to understand
> and be on the same page as our youths. We neither want or need
> translation failures. Get the message to them in terms they can
> understand and appreciate without changing the true meaning.
> Compromising in order to gain acceptance will eventually do more harm
> than good. So, we have to be like the men of Issachar who not only
> understood the times but knew what to do. Based on the culture shock
> they're experiencing,(before getting used to what's new on the market
> something else comes along)our youths are vulnerable to every ill-wind
> that blows.The "churched" kids are conforming to the things of this
> world so easily, that it's our job as leaders to build in them
> knowledgeable faith, using Christ and His Word as evidence. Our youth
> are now at the place where immediate workability is the answer to
> their problems. They do what they have to, then deal with the
> consequences. What they need, however, are good,solid, grounded role
> models who will not only SPEAK but LIVE.
>
> The author has awaken in me,a deep sense of urgency, one in which I
> need to be more accountable to the youths under my care.In order to be
> more effective in ministry,I have to "seek first the kingdom of God
> and his righteousness". Then and only then will I be as bold as Peter
> and John facing the Sanhedrin because knowing and living the truth has
> set me free.In order to develop passionate followers of Christ, I have
> to first be passionate for Him.
>
> For young lives to be transformed, it requires a fundamental change in
> the way I not only teach the youth, but raise my sons. If I live
> it,and teach it, they will see it.Reveal the true nature of God to the
> young people and they will in time develop the proper response to Him.
> Heart cannot rejoice in what the mind rejects.

>
> On Jan 16, 7:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> > target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> > see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> > immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> > ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> > this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he

> > mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> > times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> > world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> > Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to

> > relate the Gospel to it.
>

> > This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> > the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> > youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> > world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> > have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> > also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> > a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> > Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> > point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> > in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> > discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>

> > > have engaged in...
>
> > read more »

[Jbl...@yahoo.com]

Child 360 is a great way to put things. The young person today is hit
in all aspects of life. We have to truly help by using prayer and
staying relevant.

On Jan 17, 8:08 pm, "P_fene...@yahoo.com" <P_fene...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> Wow. All I kept hearing as I progressed through this article was
> "Child 360". The author hit on every aspect of a child; mind, body,
> soul, everything. And when God heals us, He heals us wholly. I can
> relate to this article because many of these things he/she hit on, I
> went through as a teenager. In the Word it does talk about the "pride
> of life, the lust of the eyes and the desires of the flesh" and as a
> youth/child worker we must really preach the Gospel at their level or
> it might not be to any effect.
> I agree with the author on the examples he brought forth and because I
> don't really hang out with a lot of youths right now I didn't know
> some of these things were happening. It still seems like a reality
> check, (I've heard of these things) but reading this article its kind
> of like giving me a heads up that these problems are real problems
> that teenagers deal with and that I am eventually going to have to
> help them out of.
>
> On Jan 16, 7:43 am, New York Youth Leaders Association

> > have engaged in oral sex. When asked if oral sex is "sex," many young
> > people answer "no." The reason? You can't get pregnant from it.
>

> > Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> > total of eight
> > hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> > including television,

> > movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> > Mueller)
>
> > 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,

> > media, and family pressures has made the teenage years more difficult....
>
> read more »

[Jbl...@yahoo.com]

Ava,
I agree with you. "We must learn about the out target audience to
effectively sell a product." Youths today are used to being
entertained. We leaders, have to figure out the most appropriate
method in teaching them the "un-compromising" word of God.

On Jan 16, 10:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he

> mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to

> relate the Gospel to it.
>

> This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>

> On Jan 16, 10:43 am, New York Youth Leaders Association

> > have engaged in...
>
> read more »

[twi...@yahoo.com]

Personally I cant believe how alarming the stats are .However I do
agree with the author and I believe that the knowledge of these facts
will be an important part in helping me to face my youth group with a
better understanding of what they are faced with. I know that in time
past I have said to myself it is important to remember how it was when
I was young and even though I faced a lot of things growing up ,this
made me realize that it is not on the same at all. I really appreciate
when the writer said that we should understand the times and the
culture in which we live in order to reach them. I will take the time
out to spend more time getting to know and understand my young people
and the challenges they face so that I can be a more effective youth
leader.

> have engaged in oral sex. When asked if oral sex is "sex," many young
> people answer "no." The reason? You can't get pregnant from it.
>

> Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> total of eight
> hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> including television,

> movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> Mueller)
>
> 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,

[lol]

The stats may be alarming but they're real.The author has really
opened my eyes to the facts of life and has asked the question "Will
we listen to their world?" Many of us adults go through life with
"blinders" on. God help us if those "blinders" are of the spiritual
kind. We need to remove the scales from our eyes and get a dose of
reality. In understanding the ways of the youth, we have to be on
their level to a certain extent,but not to act as if we are their
peers (age-wise). We are on a mission to rebuild (their relationship
with God) and reclaim(peace of mind and sanity).Help them to
rediscover their purpose, through scripture (Ecc 12:13);How to handle
peer pressure and resist ungodly influences and how to make proper,
moral choices. Every generation blames the one before and the change
has to start with someone...let it be me.

> > developmental...
>
> read more »

[Darell]

The stats is very shocking, but true to some extent, the author has
really opened our eyes to the youth culture and their behaviors so
that we can be better prepared to deal with issues that they are
facing in their environment. I would caution that we do not use the
stats to assume that our own youths are just as bad or worse, but
assess our own youths to see where we stand in regards to the stats
and not be too quick to judge them and run the risk of loosing them. I
agree with Ava that one has to properly learn their target audience to
properly reach it and there are tactics, avenues or tools we have to
learn how to use to well serve the young generation. We also have to
borrow the attitude of Apostle Paul to do whatever we can to tell them
the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the saving of their souls
and by prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit May we always stand
on the solid Rock.

On Jan 16, 10:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he

> mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to

> relate the Gospel to it.
>

> This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>

> > have engaged in...
>
> read more »

[Ava]

Darell, you are right in saying that although the statistics are
shocking, we ought not to minister from that standpoint(Neither should
we minister from out of fear). We will look and focus our attention on
God no matter the circumstance.

> > > hours, buying cars,...
>
> read more »

[michca...@yahoo.com]

I am in total agreement with the author of this article. We are
living in a changing world and our young people are exposed and will
react to the changes around them. As a Youth leader I must be aware
of the various areas of changes and at the pace at which they occur.
I do agree that the Word of God never change, neither does His
standards nor His expectations, but as a leader I need to find ways
(as the advertiser) to capture and engage the minds of our young
people allowing them to know and experience that Christ redeems,
fulfill and satisfies.
As a Youth leader in a changing world there is the need to be trained
for the battle as the men of Issachar, who were men of valor, well
equipped to fight. I am fighting for the lives of our future
generation. The enemy wants to destroy them and so as a leader I have
to be prepared for the battle. I need to be totally dependent on God,
who knows the mind of everyone. I need to think His thoughts and
delight in His presence in order to be effective.
There is no one set way of doing anything. Techniques I used last
year to win is not necessary and most likely will not be the one that
will give me the victory this year. Jesus in His ministry uses
different technique to perform his miracles. So, as a Youth Leader I
have to be adjustable or flexible. No two young people are the same;
therefore I have to be able to minister to each on an individual
basis. That is change! As I leader in a changing world I cannot do
the same thing over and over and expect different results. It is
important that I develop and build relationships with my young people,
meet them at their level, understand the way they think and why the
think the way they think. Only then I will be able to I reach them.
If as a youth leader I am not in touch with the changing world, it
will be difficult for me to relate to today’s young people; will not
understand the struggles and hardship they face and lead them to live
a victorious life. I refuse to use the words “when I was growing up”
I am living in A CHANGING WORLD and I must myself change in order to
be an agent of change.

> > > > the form of a verbal invitation to come and do something that both you- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -...
>
> read more »

[michca...@yahoo.com]

I do agree with your respond. as leaders we should utilize the
increase in technology
have our youg people be fully engaged in it doing the work of God.. We
use the phones
for scriptures verses by sending the a bible verse each day. i day
that to my youg people
and its amazing to see how much of them look forward to receive a
bible verse each day.
Forcing then to do the things we did while we were growing up will not
work.

> > your peers think is normal and- Hide quoted text -

[michca...@yahoo.com]

Amen sis. I too believe we should take time to listen to our young
people.
They too have a voice and their voices need to be heard. We dont have
to compromise to listen
listen to their imputs and suggestion. We should not also believe that
we are always right.
Most of these young people are more up to date with the changing world
than us as leaders.

On Jan 16, 10:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he

> mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to

> relate the Gospel to it.
>

> This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>

> > your peers think is normal and right. Today's peer pressure is much
> > more intense and difficult to resist.
>
> > 6. Materialism is a desirable lifestyle. The dawn of the new
> > millennium has brought increased economic opportunity and wealth into
> > the lives of children and teens. More and more kids are working long

> > hours, buying cars, and furnishing their rooms with the latest in
> > electronic gadgetry. Many have more monthly discretionary income at
> > their disposal than the average adult. Others are showered with
> > material "blessings" from over-indulgent parents. Young people are
> > going through their teenage years developing life expectations – and
> > related priorities – of having whatever they want, whenever the want
> > it. They are, and will be, accumulating debt at unprecedented levels.
> > Their present situation indicates that today's teens are building
> > their lives around the desire to possess things.
>
> > 7. Oral sex is big. Researchers are just now beginning to look more
> > seriously at oral sex and teenagers. The practice has become so
> > prevalent amongst teens – especially among middle school students –
> > that it's considered to be a recreational activity that takes place
> > casually and without any sort of dating relationship, either when
> > alone with another person or in groups. The most recent data indicates
> > that among 15- to 19-yearolds, more than 55 percent of the boys and
> > more than 54 percent of the girls report giving or getting oral sex.
> > By the time they reach the age of 19, three-quarters of all teens will

> > have engaged in- Hide quoted text -

[Pat Blackwood]

Great Article!It also make me more aware of the straight loss and
defeat the enemy will get through Christ power.
I have hope for our youths because of the promise "...of the pouring
out the spirit upon
all flesh, and our sons and daughters shall..." shall = must... and we
are learning so we can present this "powerology" to our generation
with clarity and boldness! The devil is a liar, 9 of the 10
observations mentioned in the article? are strong holds that we are
pulling down in Jesus Name, and we are righteous, bold as a lion, and
ready to win the unchurched with our Love.
So Help us God!

> have engaged in oral sex. When asked if oral sex is "sex," many young
> people answer "no." The reason? You can't get pregnant from it.
>

> Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> total of eight
> hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> including television,

> movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> Mueller)
>
> 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,
> media, and family pressures has made the teenage years more difficult.
> The constant barrage of confusing messages and expectations can be too
> much of a burden for some teens to handle during the normal adolescent

[lol]

Wow! Wow! Wow! That's the stance we need to take- going into battle
with the mind-set that we either have already won, or that we cannot
lose.As alarming as the statistics are, we need not be fearful, but be
mindful of the fact that we have not been given the spirit of fear,
but of love, power and a sound mind.One shall chase a thousand and two
shall put ten thousand to flight.Just keep in mind that we wrestle not
against flesh and blood...and as long as we are fully armed,WE WILL
HAVE THE VICTORY for the younger generation.

> > six, eight, and 10 found that 18 percent...
>
> read more »

[Mary.V]

I agree with the author. I do believe we have to get to know our
youth’s world and apply some concepts, such as technology, to our work
with them. However, we need to remember that these kids come to church
looking for something they haven’t been able to find in their “world”.
They are looking for something different, for a change. With that
said, it is OK to read the first 9 items on the list and accept that
it is a reality, but we should focus on that last item on the list.
Our kids are hungry for God! Even though it is difficult to compete
with everything they are offered out there , I am sure that with God’s
guidance we can offer these kids what they are looking for and haven’t
able to find, which is God in their lives!
Mary V.

[Pat Blackwood]

Jblu: Good day.
re: your quote "...Some of the methods of the past are not relevant in
this era."
What specifically are you talking about? Please give us examples....

Re:Our children and youths, we parents should continue to have:
Old time prayer, fasting, Bible reading around the table at home,
devotion time, reading books, doing book reports,
talking, family fun, communicating, playing together, not using
technology for a week,...or forever....
not buying the cell phones and other tech savy stuff, not having
access the internet, or cable, until the youths
"come of age" will work....use the internet at the Library (limited
access), or when the family is together (parent monitored), show them
love, do not use negetive words, when you fight, make up
quick...simple things.
(I did it, my son.. saved.. now in college), old time values works,
let the child be a child in the home. God's values
works then and now, the 'Good old fashioned way' to go home to glory
still stand, the old way of witnessing is still
the same...Love, compassion, caring, preaching the John the Baptist
way, is the same.

What is different: We are more tech savy, yes...and God is coming
sooner now, the last of the last days is now!
We can learn more now because of technology, yes we must learn, and
study, but ....spreading the undiluted, supernatural word of God like
the disciples? is the same...do it "word of mouth" and now
add ..."word by world wide web" with the same old love, compassion,
and burning desire to reach the unchurched!

Pat

On Jan 17, 8:18 pm, "Jblu...@yahoo.com" <Jblu...@yahoo.com> wrote:

> > your peers think is normal and- Hide quoted text -

[Darell]

Greatly put Pat!

I agree with a lot of you said, some of the basic principles still
work,but we failed to practice them properly and claim they are old-
fashioned and not relevant. I believe we have to use the tools that
work to get the job done effectively whether they are old or new. God
bless!

> > > adult input. In...
>
> read more »

[Matthew Hendrickson]

I definitely agree with the author. Knowing the target audience and being able to use the appropriate tools to get thir attention is crucial. Being someone who works in broadcast I see ads all the time at work. There are too many distractions out there taking the attention of our kids especially with many of them having iPods, iPads, iPhones and other wireless technology. If we could use that technology to interact with the kids, we will have to use it. My little cousins parents often give them games to play on the xBox or Playstation not understanding that kids shouldn't be exposed to such violence or language at such a young age. Kids are no longer allowed to just be kids anymore. They get pressured into listening to music, or watching tv shows where they are influenced by what they see and hear, yet they don't realize the lyrics, or the situations in the shows have distorted views on the way we were meant to live. Growing up, my mom wouldn't allow me to watch certain shows. Now with most shows having a rating and an explanation of those ratings there is no excuse anymore to allow kids to watch things way above their maturity level. Our kids are hurting, and need to know our God that can heal them of what has been done to them. They need deliverance from the ways of this world.

Sent from my iPad

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[Andrew Quiros]

Great article, it truly brings out the important problems/situations
that our young people are facing in today's world, and I fully agree
with it. The one that really frustrated me was point 9 about the
little difference between churched and unchurched kids. The Bible says
in Matthew 7:16 "You will recognize them by their fruits" and us as
leaders have to be more on top of that by helping not only the
students, but the parents that are attending the church to further
encourage them in discipleship. The article was right in the sense
that in today's world, the media/pop-culture is what's steering the
direction of our young people. The act of being free and rebellious is
what drives to the acceptance these days. The world's culture is
pushing things to kids younger and younger at age such as: Sex,
Parties, Drugs & Alcohol, and materials etc. which has turned to the
norm of the average teenager. We as the church have to step up in the
sense that we need to tackle those problems/situations in our local
bible-based churches. We have to build up our young people and push
more to tell them not only to not do those certain things or not
obtain those habits but to explain more of the consequences of their
actions and negative side of those decisions. The Apostle Paul says in
1 Corinthians 9:20-23 "To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the
Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I
myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. (21)
To those not having the law I became like one not having the law
(though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as
to win those not having the law. (22) To the weak I became weak, to
win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all
possible means I might save some. (23) I do all this for the sake of
the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." We have to do a better
job to connect with the youth of today on a more real level, not only
preaching to them, but helping to build them up to be a light in the
world to reach their fellow students.

> Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> total of eight
> hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> including television,

> movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> Mueller)
>
> 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,
> media, and family pressures has made the teenage years more difficult.
> The constant barrage of confusing messages and expectations can be too
> much of a burden for some teens to handle during the normal adolescent
> developmental shake-up, especially when parents are absent or ignorant
> of what is going on in their lives. One study of students in grades

[Andrew Quiros]

well put, we do need to be very flexible in how to not only see the
changing world in front of us, but also reaching a group of
individuals (as you said that no two young people are the same) we as
youth leaders have to adapt better to the all different cases to them,
because we all didn't go through the same thing they go now...we'll
said

On Jan 18, 8:50 pm, "michca_st...@yahoo.com" <michca_st...@yahoo.com>
wrote:

> > > > > video games, computers, and music. Because they are...
>
> read more »

[kourtney baines romero]

The article was definitely enlightening. I agree with the Author; I
believe it is increasingly important that we understand what our young
people are thinking, how they are feeling and how they relate to one
another and allow that to form our focus as youth leaders accordingly.
It’s important that we are meeting our Young people where they are so
to speak, guiding them through building relationships, modeling and
teaching the truths and promises from the Word of God to get them to
where God wants them to be “For I know the thoughts that I think
toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give
you a future and a hope” Jeremiah 29:11. It’s evident from this
information that young people are yearning for relationships, we need
to provide them with a tool box, break the Word of God down for them
where it is relevant to their lives and what they are experiencing.
As stated in this article technology is constantly
emerging; there is something new to learn every day which is faster
and better than it was the day before; the amount of information that
can be accessed in just one simple click is amazing. I think for our
young people it’s important that we embrace these new avenues to
enhance communication and collaboration efforts; use them to spread
the word of God. I know some of the parents are not as familiar with
FB/MS etc.; I take it upon myself to add young people from my church
to my FB page monitoring what they are posting; reminding them that
once it’s in the cyber world you cannot get it back; especially now
with colleges and potential jobs scanning these social media sites
it’s important that they are using them responsibly. Some young
people are accustomed to faceless communication, for some it’s easier
to communicate their questions or concerns through text, email, IM,
FB, etc. I want to offer my young people a safe place, to ask
questions, speak freely about their concerns and provide them with
what they need regardless of the method as long as the message is the
Word of God, that can’t be changed its just the method today in which
our young people receive it . This information also confirms for me
that our young people need us; We are at the right place at the right
time in this course learning more to work with the young people of
today helping to shape our adults of tomorrow.

> Researchers report that on average, children ages 8 to 18 spend a
> total of eight
> hours and 33 minutes a day exposed to a wide variety of media,
> including television,

> movies, books, magazines, video games, computers, and music. (Walt
> Mueller)
>
> 8. Far too many kids are depressed. The increased intensity of peer,
> media, and family pressures has made the teenage years more difficult.
> The constant barrage of confusing messages and expectations can be too
> much of a burden for some teens to handle during the normal adolescent
> developmental shake-up, especially when parents are absent or ignorant
> of what is going on in their lives. One study of students in grades
> six, eight, and 10 found that 18 percent of youths reported symptoms
> of depression. Our children and teens are at increased risk for being
> more than down in the dumps. Teen depression has reached epidemic
> proportions.
>
> 9. There's little difference between churched and unchurched kids.
> There's a sad and sorry trend I've been noticing more and more over
> the past several years. Increasingly, kids from Christian homes and
> churches are looking more and more like their mainstream teenaged
> peers – and less and less like Christ. While many of these kids claim
> allegiance to Christ, their values, attitudes, and behaviors indicate
> there's a disconnect between their stated faith and daily lives. This
> reality is reflective of a growing trend among Christians of all ages
> who are failing to integrate their faith into the place where it
> rightfully belongs – all of life. Sadly, more and more students are
> living disintegrated lives with their faith saying little or nothing

> to how they relate, learn, date, play, and work, etc....
>
> read more »

[kourtney baines romero]

Ava I couldn't agree with you more I too have that quiet time with the
young people picking them and dropping then off, some enjoy the little
talk so much the ones that live on the same street as the church want
to go along for the ride and get dropped off on the way back. It
seemed like such a small thing but can be immensely effective. ;)

On Jan 16, 10:39 pm, Ava <avatri2...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> I am a firm believer in the fact that one has to properly learn their
> target audience in order to effectively sell a product.   We rightly
> see that the "world" is selling it's product by tapping into the
> immediacy of the youth culture - providing quick fix solutions that
> ultimately draws these vulnerable souls from the truth.  It is for
> this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the author when he

> mentioned that as people called to do ministry in rapidly changing
> times, we must embark on a never -ending quest to know our culture and
> world.... And in order lead children and teens to hear and follow the
> Incarnate Word, we must know their world and discover how best to

> relate the Gospel to it.
>

> This article surely reminds me that all care must be taken to deliver
> the un-compromised word of truth in a manner that is relevant to the
> youth culture.  Moreover, we have to diligently seek to learn the
> world in which our children and youth are operating in.  Further, we
> have to become attentive listeners as well as quick learners.  It is
> also imperative for us to have social bonding with our young people as
> a means of promoting accountability and transparency among us.
>
> Finally, we are to create avenues for them to freely express their
> point of view and be keenly listened to. One of my greatest examples
> in learning about the world in which they really operate is in
> discussions we have while driving them to and from choir rehearsals.
>

> > have engaged in...
>
> read more »

[Mary.V]

Pat,
I agree with you when you mentioned that there are practices that
we should continue to have. I really liked that you talked about
studying the Bible at home as a family, the prayers, the fasting.
Although we should move with the times, we know that the Word of God
doesn’t change but remains the same, and these practices should not be
replace in any way. Our youth must learn that in order to have a
relationship with God they need to read the Word and to communicate
with Him through prayer. I think some of the things you mentioned are
the basics of our walk as Christians. Lamentably the problem we are
having today is that there is no balance, sometime we replace those
practices to accommodate to what we think will get our Youth
attention. I love to integrate many of the things the youth enjoy such
as movies, computers, etc. with our group, and we do it often, but
balance is the key! Very good post!
Mary V

[kourtney baines romero]

What a great idea sometimes I send a text here or there, but that
maybe something great we can adopt sending a daily Word text to our
young people, they can forward it to their friends, who can forward it
to others. Thanks :)

On Jan 18, 9:00 pm, "michca_st...@yahoo.com" <michca_st...@yahoo.com>
wrote:

> > > growing through the normal difficulties of the...
>
> read more »

[Mary.V]

Lol,
Very well put! You touched on a very important point when you
mentioned, and I quote “we have to be on their level to a certain
extent, but not to act as if we are their peers (age-wise)”. These
kids are looking up to us and we need to understand that we are in a
“mission”, as you so well put it in your post. We want to gain their
trust and of course talk their language so they can understand us, but
at the same time we want them to know that in us they can also find
that word of wisdom when they need it. Good post!
Mary V.

[kourtney baines romero]

Totally agree Mary ! They are hungry and longing for the Love of God
and we absolutely with God can make a difference in their lives ;)

[PATRICIA R. BLACKWOOD]

Thanks Darell,

To God be the glory! He never change, all is the same with Him...all we need

to do is go along with the changing times with basic principles and the same love, compassion,

and courage. We can use technology in a positive way, but children must be children in the home,

and when they are outside the home, and be pressured by peers or society? they can say no!.. because

of the tools we as parents, and youth leaders gave them, and if they bend? they will not be broken!

Just like the palm tree.

We love all our youths everywhere and we will fight for their deliverance from evil, Jesus has already

prayed for us or taught us to pray  "....deliver us from evil..."

 

I Love you all.

 

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[PATRICIA R. BLACKWOOD]

Matthew,

Awesome post! I totally agree with you, and we are the warriors "....at such a time as this.."

who will get spiritually anointed, educated, and ready to pray and go, with love and compassion

for the unchurched. I love them so much and I am willing and able to show  "....the greater He, that is in

me, than the he that is in the world " to them.

 

Pat 

From: Matthew Hendrickson <boomb...@gmail.com>
To: "ny...@googlegroups.com" <ny...@googlegroups.com>
Sent: Friday, January 20, 2012 8:40 PM

Subject: Re: Phase I Week 2 January 16-22

> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to nyyla+unsub...@googlegroups.com.

> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/nyyla?hl=en.
>

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[PATRICIA R. BLACKWOOD]

Mary,

You are so correct, and I feel your soul in your post. We are getting educated, anointed,

and so full of global interest in our youths, their peers, and their changing pressures.

 

We have a lively hope, and one of the things we can do is put billboards up, inviting

our generation to holy living, and the excitement that comes with " Including Jesus in Technology."

I am excited about the expectancy of God's promise to ".....pour out His spirit upon ALL flesh,..."

God is with us, and God will get more souls in heaven if we tell others about Him. We are so ready!

 

God bless us all!

Pat    

 

From: Mary.V <cogsjcyou...@gmail.com>
To: NYYLA <ny...@googlegroups.com>
ent: Sunday, January 22, 2012 9:47 PM
Subject: Re: Phase I Week 2 January 16-22

[PATRICIA R. BLACKWOOD]

To unsubscribe from this group, send email to nyyla+un...@googlegroups.com.

[Sasha's Beauty]

Blessing

My name is Sasha Frederick and I took the youth leadership course last year. It seem like I was not taken of the list for the new class because I am receiving emails.

Kindly, remove me from receiving any correspondence

Thanks