What Makes a Veteran

By Doug Franklin October 4, 2010

I have noticed a lot is being made about being a youth ministry rookie or veteran these days . Often we think time determines whether you are a veteran or rookie. I don’t think time is a good measuring stick for giving people more wisdom than others. I know lots of 10 year youth ministry folks who don’t have lots of wisdom.  I think to be a vet you need to understand one principle: purpose.  Youth ministry is about leading students to a personal relationship with God. This purpose or principle must be at the center of everything we are doing. If this purpose is not front and center most likely it’s because we are focusing on ourselves. It’s really hard not to make the ministry about us; I know I was seldom able to do it when I was a youth worker. Having a team or accountability  partner to keep you centered is very important. Taking the step of having an accountability partner and making sure you’re focused on purpose will make you a veteran no matter how long you have been a youth worker.