Contemplation and Youth Ministry
November 15th, 2007 by Steve
Our class has been reflecting on the essence of contemplation in youth ministry. Not really on how we can “get those adolescents to be more contemplative” but to ask some deep questions of the youth pastor’s soul.
I’m grateful for Mark Yaconelli’s book, Contemplative Youth Ministry, that uses research and thoughtful reflection to raise important issues. What I believe he is suggesting is not and “add on” or a “tweak” to youth ministry, but a significant shift.
I wonder if youth ministry can really go there or if “contemplation” will become another bell or whistle in the youthworker’s bag of tricks.
Yaconelli offers some quotes from some historical, Christian fathers and mothers on their thoughts on contemplation…
“The pure loving gaze that finds God everywhere.” (Brother Lawrence)
“Seeing God in all things.” (Ignatius of Loyola)
“The sacrament of the present moment.” (Jean Pierre de Causade)
“Awareness absorbed and amazed.” (Teresa of Avila)
“A long loving look at the real.” (Walter Burghardt)
I had students in our class offer their own one-word thoughts on contemplation. Here’s what some of them said…
Allowing God’s story to eclipse your own (Steve H)
Holistic consciousness of God (Shane)
Being in the real (Mike)
Being aware and attentive to God’s movements (Jeanette)
Quieting my self enough to be able to hear God (Brent)
Allowing one’s self to be permeated by the presence of God (Judy)
Contemplation is to stop doing, and start being (Jim)
Contemplation is like breathing (Jordan)
Hearing God in the static of life (Sam O)
What would be your definition?
November 19th, 2007 at 12:59 pm
Creating holy space in my life
January 22nd, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Steve,
Great question! I am currently starting a Master’s project looking at the question of student development and spiritual formation.
To play off your question, “I wonder if youth ministry can really go there or if “contemplation” will become another bell or whistle in the youthworker’s bag of tricks.” I think youth ministers can go there and it can be really beneficial for both them and the students in their ministry.
I have two questions that I would love to hear from you on either back here or offline. 1. How far can students go in regards to spiritual development without some life experience that forces them to rely on God alone? 2. How do we become contemplative and still reach the masses? Don’t we still need to have the missional/outreach focus somewhere in our minitries?
I really appreciate your thoughts and input.
May 9th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
I think contemplation is an essential part of a person’s faith and belief. If we can start our children and youth in it, it will spread to the adults. The repercussions will be phenomenal. I don’t think it is “bell or whistle” but a way of being.
Good luck!