It was a summer afternoon and four students were walking the side of the road on their way to youth group. One of our men spotted them and lurched his Suburban onto the grass, gunning the engine as if to plow them over. They screamed, scattered, laughed, and piled on the back bumper for a lift to the church. [DISCLAIMER: This is not a transferable technique . . . ]

At the church a few more men were throwing footballs and Frisbees, clusters of girls were talking with older women, and two of the best “fortysomething” guitarists in the world were warming up with the worship band.

Throughout the year there would be Bible studies, breakfasts, legendary hikes, missions trips, teaching, testimonies, Capture the Flag nights, sporting events, camp-outs, work days — and much more.

There’s no way one youthworker can provide all the context, culture, support, mentoring, and modeling a group needs. I’ve seen lone youth pastors try to do it all. It’s impossible.

For the rest of this week we’ll explore ways to get parents and other adults involved. This is essential for every group.