Relationships

Relationships are key when it comes to preteen ministry.  It is important to create a healthy environment where preteens can connect with one another on a regular basis.  They need a positive peer group that will help guide them to make wise choices.  They need to be around others who are passionate about their relationship with God, so they rub off on each other.

So, here are some ideas to foster community within a preteen ministry.  Keep in mind two different groups – macro and micro sized. 

Macro – Host a fun event once every couple of months (laser tag, bowling, water park, sleepover, etc).  Create an alternative to VBS that is relevant and cool to preteens.  Put on a weekend preteen camp or bring your group to an existing one.  After the Saturday night service once a month, have an event called After Hours.  Charge $5 to cover the cost of pizza and play some fun group games.  Allow plenty of hang-out time before, during and after the games.  Good idea to have cool stuff in your room for hang-out time, like foosball table, video games, air hockey table, etc.

Micro – Create small groups based on interests (video gaming, skateboarding, etc) allowing group members to build relationships based on things they have in common.  Grab another leader and invite 2-3 preteens for ice cream, go to the park or give out food to the homeless.  Encourage other leaders to do the same (always in pairs of two).