WELCOMING is how we show kindness, acceptance, and hospitality to everyone - guests and members alike. In a nation that's becoming more unchurched all the time, we need to ensure that teen seekers encounter in us a Christ that they want to know better.
How do you welcome a new friend to church? I mean, you want them to visit but everything's geared to adults, right? Not any more.
IT'S COMING! For the first time, you have online United Methodist "teen welcoming experience" you can share that is all yours! Teen-oriented and teen-produced. And it is a genuine welcome -- no "selling;" just a nice welcome that says what you feel every Sunday. "These people really care about me! "
Developed In Collaboration With:
• Division on Ministries With Young People (GBOD)
• DevoZine (GBOD)
• Abingdon Youth (UMPH)
• Youth Worker Movement/I Lead Youth
• United Methodist Youth Groups
WITH YOUR HELP, United Methodist Communications is officially launching this new "teen welcoming experience" at Youth2007 -- but we need the help of teens from our UM youth groups now!
With little effort, there are five ways you can participate now to help reach out to seeker teens around the world.
THERE IS NOTHING like this welcoming experience, and it is bringing exciting new interactivity that brings your voice of the Church to life online. You will NOT regret being a part of this initiative, and we have "thank you" gifts if you do.
Participate Now!
Right now, we sincerely need your help. There are several ways to participate, teens and adults alike, based on your interests and time available. You will NOT regret being a part of this initiative.
• Nominate A UM Teen Like Emily : Nominate a teen who would like to self-produce a short but meaningful profile about themselves (we will coach you) to share glimpse of their spiritual selves with teen seekers. It's easy - view video
• 'Name The URL' Contest : $2,000* Grand prize for teen or group nominating the winning name (determined by popular vote at Youth2007). Deadline June 30 [more info]
• Build A Seeker Welcome From Your Youth Group : Be a part of this welcome -- start a home for your youth group in the new social network (see sample).
• Become A Youth Welcoming Ambassador : Bring this teen outreach & welcoming to your congregation earn the first YWA dog tag! We can help you from developing a presentation to sharing how this teen welcome fits in your youth ministry. ["Get Involved" PDF]
• Join The Advisory Group : Teen_Townhall is an online hub for teens, youth leaders and pastors, alike. Share your experience and insights -- help shape the theology expressed and other key strategies. Click here to join!
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What interests you? Feel free to ask any questions.
"Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors."
The people of The United Methodist Church®
