Youth spaces must also follow your program for ministry. If your vision for reaching youth is not well defined, we suggest that you tap into some of the ministry resources available, such as Oneighty.comÂ
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Too often, youth ministry space evolves from the “leftovers”- the least desirable spaces in the church. Though one may think that youth do not notice, they are all too perceptive when it comes to their deemed importance within the Church. They want to be believed in, considered important and worthwhile. Investing in our youth is investing in evangelism and the kingdom of God. When a church places money and support behind a vision driven Youth Pastor they are empowering him, not only to reach their children, but their friends as well. And when the Lord changes their friend’s lives, it gets their parent’s attention! When we reach a child – particularly youth – for Jesus Christ, we also reach their friends, and their friend’s families. When the church dedicates a quality space for their youth they are telling them they are worth the investment.Â
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Quality youth space is not that expensive when compared to worship centers or nursery spaces. They are comfortable in a “warehouseâ€-type space, with exposed structure and plain concrete floors. Technology, on the other hand, is a part of their every day lives. They have grown up in a multi-media culture, and the language we use must be inundated with these same media forms. A great example of the integration of multi-media and technology can be seen at the 180 Youth Building in Tulsa, OK. This state-of-the-art youth center is 90,000 square feet of pre-engineered building, which ministers to over 3,000 students a week. See our Oneighty photo gallery. Although the structure itself is economical, it’s loaded with computer games, arcade equipment, video monitors, an internet cafe and an auditorium that functions like a U2 concert. Again, it is important that these spaces reflect your youth ministry program. Just make sure that your vision for youth ministry is able to meet the needs of young people and the gives you the opportunity to reach them for Jesus before it’s too late.Â
