Youth programs that are “too spiritual” for recreation probably will not achieve those spiritual goals. Recreation is an essential part of youth ministry for several reasons:
- Life-changing youth ministry primarily takes place in the context of relationships. Most young people’s lives are changed by gospel truth as that truth is interpreted in relationships. Games and recreation build relationships
- Youth in churches that only permit very serious study sessions seldom discover trusting friendships that can lead to discipling. Recreation and games build trust.
- Recreation can provide a way for teenagers to express hidden abilities, leading to an observable change in feelings of self-worth.
- Quality recreation also can help troubled youth cope with stress. Contemporary teenagers are pressured to grow up quickly. Stress is a daily part of most teenagers lives. Laughing and enjoying a game of volleyball car significantly reduce the stress which these teenagers carried when they arrived at your youth meeting.
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