Episode 99: From Struggles to Success: A Parish Transformation Story in Next Gen

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In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa interviews Analia Kolakowski, the Pastoral Associate at St. John's Church in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. They discuss the church's focus on improving its next generation ministry, the challenges faced in ministry, the role of parents in shaping program improvements, and the impact of a small group approach on engagement. Analia shares insights on recruiting and supporting volunteers, emphasizing the importance of finding the right people for ministry roles and fostering a collaborative environment. 

 

In this conversation, Melissa and Analia discuss the importance of building a strategic team in youth ministry, adapting to changes, leveraging technology, and measuring success beyond mere numbers. They share insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of collaboration, and the need for quality programming. Analia emphasizes the importance of understanding individual gifts within a team and the necessity of support from leadership. The discussion concludes with practical advice for parishes looking to improve their next-gen ministry.

 

Takeaways

• The parish focuses on improving its next generation program as a priority.
• Challenges included finding the right leaders for various ministries.
• Small groups have significantly improved engagement among youth and families.
• Parents play a crucial role in supporting program improvements.
• The church has implemented faith festivals to involve parents and children.
• The small group approach encourages family discussions about faith.
• Recruiting volunteers is done through one-on-one invitations.
• Teen volunteers are increasingly involved in ministry roles.
• The journey of rebuilding the parish has been challenging but rewarding. Having a strategic team with diverse gifts is crucial.
• Adapting to change is a continuous process in youth ministry.
• Technology plays a vital role in engaging today's youth.
• Success should be measured by the quality of the program, not just numbers.
• Overcoming challenges requires understanding and collaboration.
• Training and support for volunteers are essential for growth.
• Focus on the blessings and wins, no matter how small.
• Every family is unique; flexibility is key in ministry.
• Surround yourself with good counsel to navigate challenges.
• Consistency in approach leads to significant blessings in ministry.

 

Link to watch Workshop featuring Analia: https://youtu.be/IE_FHEiVKlQ 

 

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:59 - Inspiration for Next Generation Program

03:47 - Challenges in Next Generation Ministry

09:58 - Role of Parents in Program Improvements

12:43 - Impact of Small Group Approach

18:13 - Recruiting and Supporting Volunteers

23:59 - Building a Strategic Team for Success

26:45 - Adapting to Change in Youth Ministry

27:31 - Leveraging Technology to Engage Youth

29:00 - Measuring Success Beyond Numbers

32:21 - Overcoming Challenges in Ministry

38:09 - Advice for Improving Next-Gen Ministry

 

Keywords

Next Generation Ministry, Parish Improvement, Youth Engagement, Faith Formation, Volunteer Recruitment, Community Building, Family Involvement, Church Leadership, Small Groups, Program Development, youth ministry, strategic team, technology in ministry, measuring success, overcoming challenges, next-gen ministry, church growth, community engagement, volunteer management, faith formation

 

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