What to say to a new youth pastor (part 1)

Question:

What words of wisdom would you give to a new youth pastor?

Answer:

The first thing I would say is to be yourself  - get to know your strengths and weaknesses, that way you won't be tempted to try to be someone else.  You can never succeed by trying to be someone else.  Teens are drawn to someone that isn't afraid to truly be themselves.  Besides, you don't have to be the coolest person in the world to be a great youth pastor.  You have to love, pastor and teach/train your students.

Focus on your strengths and recruit to your weaknesses (ask those with strengths you need to volunteer).  One of the best ways to build a group is to do what you do best.