Exploring the nexus between children and youth ministry

Abstract

The aim of this article is to gain a proper understanding and relationship between children and youth ministry. The article sought the understanding of the relationship between children and youth ministry among children and youth workers in some denominations in Nigeria. The study employed a qualitative approach through focus group interviews. A total number of 70 respondents participated in the study: 35 children workers and 35 youth workers. Data for the research were analysed by means of thematic analysis. The empirical research findings indicate among other that many children and youth workers see their ministry as completely detached from each other. The study further reveals that there is a disparity in the understanding of both children and youth ministry among the respondents. Several conclusions were drawn from the study, firstly, children and youth ministries are an integral part of church ministry. Secondly, there has to be meaningful engagements and conservations between children and youth workers for the purposes of intergenerational ministry. Thirdly, children and youth workers must be intentional to reduce the dichotomy that exists between the two ministries. Given the research findings, the article suggests ways in which children and youth workers can work together to enhance the faith formation of children and youth. In conclusion, practical ways are proposed for enhancing the relationship between children and youth workers. Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The intra- or interdisciplinary implications of this article are found in the call to have a conversation between children (child theology) and youth workers (youth ministry) in the quest to minister to both. It is also implied that children and youth workers come from different fields of study, mainly social work, psychology and theology.