Taylor Swift & Youth Ministry

Taylor Swift and Youth Ministry, A Fun But Real Top Ten List of What Youth Pastors Can Learn from Taylor Swift?

Enjoy a couple of quick reflections as an “old guy” youth pastor and dad observing Taylor Swift’s career, marketing, and overall presence.  What wisdom and insights can we glean?

10.  Authenticity is Key: Root yourself deep in authenticity, sharing real-world experiences that will resonate with your students.  Be willing to be vulnerable about your own life & faith journey.

9.  Evolve with Your Audience: Continually find ways to communicate in a relevant way for a changing generation- their hurts, hopes, and hearts need the Gospel.

8.  Seek to Connect on a Personal Level: Move from being a stage presence to a personal presence.  Find ways to engage your students through personal notes and even special smaller setting events where students feel known and heard.

7.  Be a Storyteller: Embrace the power of stories and storytelling to engage students in relating to the truths of God’s Word

6.  Create Memorable Experiences: Create “no-way” moments and memories through weekly “special” moments and games, or be thoughtful and intentional about memory moments when planning trips, retreats, and camps.

5.  Use Social Media to Your Advantage: Learn to be “savvy” about using social media to engage and connect students by sharing stories and messages and encouraging community.

4.  Learn to Adapt: Learn to be flexible, open to new ideas, and even willing to shift your style/approach to continue to meet students where they are.

3.  Embrace Your Identity: Do not be someone you are not; stay true to your mission, calling, and values.  Be who you are; students will spot a fake a mile away.

2.  Turn Your Critics into Fans: You will face critics and negativity; face it head-on.  Use those moments to make you stronger and better, and be willing to change if needed.

1.  Value Friendships and Community: Taylor has created a cultural phenomenon through friendship bracelets and connecting people worldwide.  Is that what we are called to do?  Invite people to become followers and fans of Jesus!