Expert: Dr Tim Gladu - 5/20/2007

Question
I am a 40 year-old athletics administrator at a private college in the South.  I am a Christian and was a faculty member and baseball coach at a Christian high school from age 27-30, then in the same capacity at a Christian university from age 30-33.  For the last 7 years I have been athletic director at a secular institution.  I am married with 2 children (ages 5 and 6) and another one on the way.  

A close friend of mine who is a pastor asked me to be the youth speaker at a week-long Christian camp this summer.  I feel like I am a little bit out of touch with the issues facing 13-18 year-olds today and wondered if you could point me in the right direction as to what topics would be relevant for me to address with them.  AND what tips might you give me on how best to keep them engaged/attentive?

Any advice would be great!

Thank you!

Answer
John,

I have been a Youth Minister for 4 years now and have a few issues you may be able to talk on. The future is huge they are concerned about who they will marry and what they will do in life. Current issues are the world around them. They see so much more news then we ever saw that it is scary for them. Sex is always a safe bet, but you may not feel comfortable talking about it. Also Homosexuality if you dare to discuss it. Also Bi sexuality has recently become a huge issue with the younger kids 13-15. They really think that as long as it is not intercourse that it is ok.These are some of the biggest issues that are out there. Interpersonal skills need to always be taught. I would also suggest witnessing, if you will be talking to mostly saved kids. The Bible is the best place to start when you want a relevant message. God will speak to your heart and tell you what needs to be said. I have a few websites you may be able to look at.  http://www.urbana.org/_today.cfm

http://www.family.org/

I wish you well and God bless