Once someone said to me, “It’s becoming more and more difficult to walk with teenagers these days!” Indeed, ministering to the youth comes with its fair share of challenges. Yet, journeying with them not only allows us to witness their growth. We can also serve as a team. All this is a source of joy for the counselors.

       Young adults ministering to youth: I recently spoke with a young adult counselor. He shared that what brings him the greatest satisfaction is seeing youth with a tender heart. In FWD Fellowship, there is a group leader who is introverted by nature. However, she willingly took on the role out of obedience to God. She has the meekness that Jesus spoke of (Matthew 5:5). She always depends on God and treats others with gentleness. When she serves, she has to overcome the pressure of leading the group. Although she gives her best in leading every time, she often says that she does not do well. Still, she willingly continues to serve. During a Bible study, she shared about the weaknesses in her life. To her surprise, it encouraged another group member who did not easily admit his vulnerabilities to honestly speak about what he had not been doing well. Candid sharing in the Lord is truly precious. The young adult counselor said that God has been using this group leader because she has a tender heart. He has also been inspired by her.

       Adults ministering to youth: At the end of June, a group of F.5 youth gathered for bowling and barbecue at a counselor’s clubhouse. Everyone had a wonderful time. The counselors of this particular level are all adults. One female counselor shared that spending time with the youth made her feel young again. What motivates her to continue serving them, however, is the teamwork. Through collaboration and mutual adjustment, they share both the joys and challenges of ministry. Together, they delight in the physical and spiritual growth of the youth. Thanks be to God that one youth member in her fellowship was baptized this year. Another male counselor echoed her sentiments. Having served for three years, he finds great joy in seeing a once-silent teenager slowly open up, eventually being able to share openly about his family life and personal struggles, and even praying to the Lord together with them. As we were talking, a Form 5 student happened to pass by and shared that he, too, felt he had grown. After becoming more familiar with his counselors, he felt secure enough to confide in them. He also learned to better manage his emotions. Previously, he would easily get irritated because he thought another boy in class intentionally mocked him. Later, he realized that this classmate simply had a habit of teasing others. Now, when faced with similar situations, he is less affected and can continue to concentrate in class.

      The growth of the youth and the teamwork are, I believe, sources of fulfillment and joy for both young and adult counselors. Every September, the Youth Ministry recruits new leaders to serve incoming F.1 students. Whether you are a young adult or an adult, I invite you to pray and ask whether the Lord may be calling you to join in caring for the youth, to witness how they act according to the truth in the midst of challenges and experience the greatest joy in serving!