Present of presence

When it comes to ministry, there is one essential: show up. For anyone, and young people especially, having peers and mentors who are simply there for them is key for personal and spiritual growth. Simply showing up, and not necessarily having all the “right answers,” is what really makes a difference. God is calling you to be present in ministry, to receive and get to know those you are ministering to. To get to know their likes, dislikes, joys and struggles. Through your presence and openness to God working through you, he reveals his friendship, peace and love, in simple yet amazing ways.

The broken you

Young people especially can smell inauthenticity in ministry from a mile away. If you want to get involved in ministry, don’t feel like you have to put on a “youth leader” persona. Your parish and community need you, and all of you. In the Gospel we hear that Jesus specifically went to those who were broken or who were considered outcasts and sinners to call them as his disciples. We aren’t called to be already perfect, and God is waiting for your yes to work through your struggles and wounds so that others may see his love and mercy. Wounds don’t disqualify anyone from being God’s instrument, and his grace works through even our greatest imperfections. Walking with others in ministry involves addressing our needed areas of healing and growth, but we never have to do this alone or have it “all figured out” before we proclaim the goodness of God to others.

Know it all

When leading in ministry we can also at times struggle with the fear that we don’t know enough about the faith to be of service. Knowledge of the truth is important, but sometimes others learn from us the most when we can humbly admit I don’t know the answer, but let’s find out together! This is essential: that we are humble enough to admit what we don’t know rather than feigning knowledge and making up answers. In Scripture, Jesus called people from so many walks of life such as fishermen, tax collectors and teachers. Jesus didn’t call people only after they had completed a master’s in theology. He called them and journeyed with them, asking them to rely on God’s power and wisdom, not their own.

The invite

Finally, if we are deciding whether or not to lead or get started in ministry, you know what helps us most? Doing it. Any discernment we do – whether it’s getting married, or becoming a priest or a nun – is going to involve getting out there and trying it in some way. We can discern whether something is a good fit for us by talking to our youth minister or pastor, showing up to that training or event, and getting a sense of what it's like to be a leader and serve. Discerning God’s will involves stepping out bravely and knowing that friendships, confidence and even comfort can take time to build. Listen to the Lord and see where he is inviting you to share your presence, skills and even your brokenness with his Church today.