We believe that central to all youth work are the relationships you create. We don’t try to justify the relationships we make? We don’t think you need a reason for your relationships? But if you want some how about these…
- Fulfilling the Great Commandment: At the core of Christian faith is the call to love God and love our neighbours. Building genuine relationships with detached youth allows us to demonstrate Christ’s love in tangible ways, extending compassion and care to those who might be marginalised or overlooked.
- Modelling Christ’s Ministry: Jesus’s ministry was characterised by deep connection and genuine concern for individuals. He met people where they were, listened to their stories, and offered healing and hope. Prioritising relationships allows us to follow His example, creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and valued.
- Building Trust and Credibility: Detached youth often have a history of broken relationships and distrust toward adults and institutions. Building authentic relationships based on mutual respect and consistent presence can help break down these barriers, establishing trust and opening doors for deeper conversations about faith and life.
- Creating Safe Spaces: For many young people, the streets or informal settings may be the only spaces they feel safe and comfortable. By engaging with them in these environments, we create opportunities for meaningful interaction and demonstrate that we genuinely care about their well-being, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
- Facilitating Holistic Transformation: True transformation involves addressing both physical and spiritual needs. Nurturing relationships allows us to identify these needs more effectively, provide appropriate support, and guide young people toward a deeper understanding of their own value and God’s love for them.
- Empowering Young People: By investing in relationships, we empower young people to make positive choices, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivate their own faith journey. Our presence can serve as a beacon of hope, reminding them that they are not alone and that there is a community that cares about their future.
- Reflecting God’s Redemptive Work: Christian detached youth work is fundamentally about participating in God’s redemptive story. Prioritising relationships allows us to embody God’s relentless pursuit of those who are lost, offering grace, forgiveness, and a vision of abundant life found in Christ.
In essence, prioritising relationships in Christian detached youth work allows us to walk alongside young people on their journey, sharing God’s love and offering hope for a brighter future. It is a powerful way to demonstrate Christ’s transformative power and fulfil our calling as His followers.