How to Become a Youth Minister

Becoming a youth minister is no small decision. People who work in this capacity have a unique influence on the youth with whom they come in contact. Should you find yourself considering this path, take it seriously and contemplate the steps needed to become a youth minister.

Instructions

1. Talk to your current youth minister. The easiest way to determine if you are headed down the right path in considering this vocation is by speaking to someone in it. A good youth minister will not pat you on the back with congratulations. He will speak candidly with you about the ups and downs of the job.

2. Begin to pray about it. Yes, prayer is vital, and you should know that if you want to become a youth minister.

3. Seek out volunteer opportunities. Perhaps you're still a youth yourself. You may want to work as a summer counselor for a children's Bible camp or help with the younger youth at your own church. Seek out these chances to get some experience working with youth.

4. Look into educational requirements. Some Protestant denominations require seminary for people who will be youth ministers. Others do not. Ask within your own denomination and consider what you believe is best for you. There are programs available that offer degrees in youth ministry. You also may want to consider a degree in education or a similar field.

5. Get experience. If you can get paid experience, that's even better, but you need to gain experience for two reasons. First, you must know the current trends in youth ministry, such as including youth more in the congregation, and you want to have references when you begin applying for a job.

6. Consider an internship. Many youth ministers start out at interns at larger churches. These jobs typically pay a nominal amount, but they will give you a taste of the administrative side that you may not see working as a volunteer.

7. Apply for your first job. Spend time in prayer before you toss out your resume, but at some point, you'll need to just to go for it.