| Summary: | According to research conducted in some of the Reformed Churches, it
became clear that most of the Reformed Churches, especially in the black
communities, are encountering similar or almost the same problems with
regard to the youth. The numbers of young people that belong to the
churches, attend church services and participate in church-related activities
facilitated for them are declining. Many of those whose presence and
participation can be observed are not successful at taking the responsibility for
applying their faith on a daily basis as they live their lives on a daily basis.
It was evident that there was room for improvement with regard to youth
ministry and its effectiveness. The intention with this study was to focus on
possible ways of improving youth ministry in the Reformed Churches, and
more specifically in the context of black communities and congregations.
The approach included a look at the hermeneutical interaction between the
basis theory and the meta-theory. According to the results, findings and
conclusions obtained in this way, a set of practical guidelines has been
formulated in an attempt to render youth ministry more effective. Attention was
paid to contributions made by church leaders, parents and the young people
themselves. By applying the Biblical principles together with meta-theoretical
principles ministry to young people can be made more effective while keeping
in mind that the purpose is to be to the honour and glory of God.
The study included interviews and a questionnaire to be completed by young
participants from a few selected congregations in the Mid-lands Synod, South
Africa. According to the findings it was possible to conclude that the young
members of the church desire to feel that they have a place in the Church of
Christ a.re indeed .p art of the body of Christ. It was also revealed that they
desire to be equipped in such a way as would enable them to function as
Christians in their daily lives and to spread the Gospel to the world outside.
They need to feel that they are useful instruments in the faith community. It is true that every member of the body of Christ is unique and has a role to
play, and that is also true of the young people. The church and church leaders
also have to consider the cultural differences, the existing generation gaps
and the development of good relationships between youth and all other
members of church. The young people, however, will have to accommodate,
apply and adhere to the Biblical principles. That which remains of main
importance in the strife for righteousness is to glorify God according to his Word. === Thesis (M.Th. (Catechetics)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2010.
|
|---|
