UNITED METHODIST MEN
UM Men reach out to youth and their families By Steven Scheid
UM Men have a history of reaching out to youth and their families. Grandfathers, fathers, brothers, disciples, and disciple-makers have unique roles in interacting with youth in their churches and communities. The roles they play differ over time.
The need Increasing numbers of young people are not being raised in church homes. The Pew Research Center reports, “Only half of millennials (49 percent) describe themselves as Christians; four-in-ten are religious ‘nones’ and one-in-ten millennials identify with non-Christian faiths.” This percentage of non-Christian millennials (people between the ages of 23 and 38) is troubling as they are the parents of the next generation. While more than half of these parents do not attend church, they are never-the-less concerned about opportunities for their children to gain values. They especially want their children to be engaged in values-based activities. A church that offers scouting and other youthserving ministries opens opportunities to minister to young people growing up in non-religious homes.
Steven Scheid is the director of the Center for Scouting Ministries at the General Commission on UM Men. 30
Become a family for millennials The Pew Research Center noted in May 2020 that 4-in-10 millennials do not live with a family of their own. As children of millennials become involved in Scout troops based in UM churches, there is an opportunity for churches to become families to millennial parents. By sharing love and concern UM Men can transform relationships from sponsors of Scout troops into brothers, fathers, and grandfathers. All people have times when they need extra support. If UM Men are present with the love of God, these parents will find families.
Represent the church When a UM man steps up to serve, he brings the voice and heart of the church. It took four years of being present and reminding the youth that I represented the church for them to begin to see the church. When I offered service, they would respond, “That is just you.” I let them know that I am a member of the church. When I donated, they responded, “Thank you.” I let them know it was the church that wanted them to succeed. When we prayed together, they responded,” You are faithful.” I let them know that the church was present.
