Read through youth ministry books and other literature and chances are you will read quite a bit about how youth ministers need to keep their fingers on the pulse of youth culture. We need to know where the popular hangouts are, what the popular television shows are, what technology they are using, what music is on their iPods, and on and on. Not only are we supposed to know these things, we are supposed to observe them as well: actually watching their TV shows, listening to their music, etc. This supposedly helps us to better relate to teens and understand the world they live in, which will allow us to minister to them better.
But I’m not so sure. I think I would rather spend my time getting to know my teens instead of getting to know their culture. What means more to a teen, saying “I watch ‘The Hills,’ too” or actually spending an hour with him or her?
I’m not saying studying youth culture isn’t helpful. It might be helpful. But lots of things are helpful in life, but they’re not exactly important. In budgeting my own time, I choose not to spend it studying youth culture. I see it as a peripheral exercise that takes a back seat to knowing people, studying the scriptures, and reading in areas of theology and ecclesiology.
Is youth culture really that big of a deal?
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It is important if you’re writing a book
I agree with you matt! I think it’s a both and. Being aware doesn’t mean your doing a good job realtionaly with your teens and vice versa doesn’t mean you are aware of the things your kids are/might be facing!
Any ways at Waterworld with my high school group so I’m out!
I’m grateful to you for saying this out loud.
There’s studying youth culture as an exhibit as opposed to studying youth culture as an observer/participant. The first presumes “youth culture” is all one thing, as opposed to youth being individuals with tastes and preferences unique to each. This sounds like the difference between “What are they listening to?” as opposed to “What are YOU listening to?” And I think “What are you listening to?” is not only a more effective way of learning about youth culture, but a more effective way of ministering to and with youth.
Laura
i think it’s funny that as i get older i actually care less about their culture! i hope the church offers an alternative culture that stands against their culture. when i say, “Stands against,” i don’t mean in a antagonistic way, but that offers a better way of living after the principles of the Kingdom of God.
this is a tough one though. i can’t tell you how many times a student has said something off cuff or joking about a pop-culture reference, and because i knew what they were talking about, they were interested in my opinion or judgment on said topic. for example: “i’m on a boat.” “two girls, one cup.” i could go on. there are some inappropriate things that kids get themselves wrapped up in without thinking about what their faith has to say. sometimes knowing about youth culture allows us to speak truth in situations. great post!