It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

I had an epiphany this weekend.

I visited a church where I was music director from the late 70's to late 80's. I really helped the church by starting a choir and bringing the music quality level up! We brought in drums, bass guitar to go along with the piano and organ.

We were suddenly attracting a younger crowd because we had music that they liked. The older folks didn't like it at first, in fact some of them left.

The bottom line is that the Lord blessed and moved in our congregation in a new way.

When I visited the church again for the first time in twenty years, things had changed. They no longer had a choir, and (gasp!) the acoustic piano was traded in on two keyboards! They had taken the pews out of the choir loft to add a drum cage and space for the different guitars. I was thinking that the music had gone to pot after I left! :D

When church started it sounded like a rock concert with songs on the screen that I was not familiar with. But.......the spirit of worship was extremely strong with praising and dancing before the Lord. It used to take a really good black choir song to get people that exciting in worship!

As I looked around, I noticed that 3/4ths of the congregation were probably under the age of 30! They had found a way to connect to the younger generations. I was impressed with the way the youth were on fire and worshiping God.

I asked about the church attendance, and they told me that attendance had doubled in the last two years since they changed the worship type and format! They are now running about 800 in two Sunday services. (400 each)

I realize that the style of church music that I like usually attracts folks that are my age. My daughter (age 27) that was with me loved their music!

Maybe it's time to let our young leaders (age 30) take the lead in reaching this new generation. As long as our older preachers are leading, nothing will change! Please let our younger leaders take the reigns before we lose a generation and get closer to extension.

Folks my age may not be comfortable at first, but they'll get used to it once the power of God starts moving in the church like never before!

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

im for it!

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

I hope you're ready, because it could be a bumpy ride at first! :)

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

Sounds way too oversimplistic to me.

Handing things off to those under 30 is not some magical push-button answer to usher in the presence and power of God (and I think most under-30's recognize this also)

There's still something to be said for the greater experience, depth, wisdom, and knowledge of the word that the under-30's just dont have right now.

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

Pianoman, we really dont have a choice.

All we can really do is ground them in the things that matter, teach them critical thinking and pray to God they get the good and figure out the rest!

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

I would rather have 30 with the power of God present than a 1,000 without it. I don't care what the age is so long as they know how to follow Jesus! :)

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

We have actually gone through something similar to this locally, and it is a bumpy, but rewarding ride.

When my brother came on as Senior pastor, he started making gradual changes in how the church operated, the style of our services, and the focus and direction of our outreach.

It was (and is) very difficult for some of the older saints, but for the most part every one has tried to work together and it has gone really well. It helps if the former leadership is supportive and behind the new direction.

I personally love the new style and direction, it is very effective with this generation.

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

Older saints love their music, we have always had difficulty where ever we went, when we wanted to implement new music.

I wish they could see new music is the best way to connect with young people.

Other wise I love the older generation and appreciate their love and wisdom.

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

All-righty then...I accept!

I am glad to take over and make way for a new ERA in.....

What do you mean, you weren't talking about Me????

:tissue

Re: It's Time to Let the Younger Generations Lead!
 

Having "discussed" this many times at the present church I attend; we finally came to a conclusion that one of the most important things the church had to do was "make a place" for people of all ages, races, cultures, etc. Just recognizing the music that younger people like and making a place for it speaks volumes. It doesnt mean you have to do away with the music "my" generation prefers. There IS a place for all in the church. Just as there is a place for ALL at the foot of the cross.
Just my mindless wanderings......
Blessings!