Jonathan,
I have leaders that act as bad or worst than the youth. I don't like to be hard, but I feel that I must be with leaders. They even don't obey the rules that we ask of our youth. Then the youth ask why their don't have to obey the rules.
Where do I go from here?
Allyn
Answer
Allyn- thanks for the email.
I recommend stringing them up and beating them in front of the whole group- then NO ONE will act up!!!
Okay, seriously now. By leaders- I'm guessing you mean- adult leaders. Although the steps would be similar with student leaders.
The answer lies in your interview process. So my answer might help you more for recruiting in the future. But I always lay out my “expectations” when I bring someone on as a staff person. In those expectations is a section on “being a role model.” If I have a leader that is “distracting,” I simply meet with them one on one and talk to them about what it means to be a role model. Then I clearly let them know specific actions of theirs that are unacceptable. I warn them.
If the actions continue, I meet with them again and ask them to take a month off. This can be hard. Especially if you have an immature staff member that backlashes (check out my ASK JONATHAN page- the question about FATAL ATTRACTION STAFF MEMBERS).
Then I meet with them again and let them “re-apply.” If I feel like they understand what they need to change- then I might let them back in.
Hope that helps.
God Bless,
Jonathan McKee
The Source for Youth Ministry
www.TheSource4YM.com
