Teaching youth the gospel can be both rewarding and challenging. The Come Follow Me curriculum provides a fantastic framework, but supplementing it with engaging and relevant lessons is key to capturing young hearts and minds. This guide offers practical tips and resources to enhance your Come Follow Me lessons for youth, making gospel study a meaningful and memorable experience.
What Makes a Great Come Follow Me Lesson for Youth?
Before diving into specific strategies, let's establish the foundation for effective Come Follow Me lessons. A successful lesson should be:
- Engaging: Avoid passive lectures. Incorporate activities, discussions, and interactive elements to keep youth actively involved.
- Relevant: Connect gospel principles to their lives, experiences, and current events. Show them the practical application of scripture.
- Age-Appropriate: Tailor the content and activities to the specific age group and their developmental stage.
- Spirit-Filled: Create an atmosphere conducive to the Spirit through prayer, reverence, and thoughtful reflection.
- Inspiring: Leave youth feeling motivated to live the gospel and continue their own personal study.
Common Questions About Teaching Youth Come Follow Me
Here are some frequently asked questions about teaching Come Follow Me to youth, along with insightful answers:
How can I make Come Follow Me relatable to teenagers?
This is a crucial aspect of effective teaching. Instead of solely focusing on historical context, connect the scripture stories and principles to modern-day scenarios. Ask questions like: "How would this situation be handled today?" or "What challenges do we face today that are similar to those faced in the scriptures?" Use current events, popular culture references (appropriately), and personal anecdotes to create relevance. Encourage them to share their own experiences and perspectives.
What are some fun and engaging activities for Come Follow Me lessons?
The possibilities are endless! Consider these ideas:
- Role-playing: Act out scripture stories or challenging situations.
- Games: Create games that reinforce gospel principles.
- Art projects: Express understanding through drawing, painting, or creating visual representations.
- Service projects: Apply gospel teachings through hands-on service.
- Discussions: Facilitate open and respectful discussions about the scriptures and their meaning.
- Music: Use hymns and songs to enhance the spiritual atmosphere.
Remember to tailor the activity to the specific scripture block and the learning style of your youth.
How do I address difficult topics in Come Follow Me with youth?
Sensitive topics require careful handling. Prepare yourself beforehand by prayerfully considering how to approach the material. Create a safe and supportive environment where youth feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their feelings. Be honest, but also age-appropriate in your explanations. Avoid giving answers you don’t know, and direct them to appropriate resources if needed. Always emphasize the Savior’s love and atonement as a source of comfort and hope.
How can I help youth apply Come Follow Me principles to their daily lives?
Encourage them to set personal goals based on the principles they’re learning. Have them write down specific actions they can take to apply those principles. Provide opportunities for accountability and support. Help them to see the connection between gospel principles and their everyday challenges and successes. Focus on small, achievable steps rather than overwhelming them with grand expectations.
What are some resources to help me teach Come Follow Me effectively?
Beyond the official Come Follow Me resources, consider exploring:
- Church websites and apps: The Gospel Library app offers many helpful resources.
- Youth-focused websites and blogs: Many websites offer lesson ideas and activities specifically for youth. (Note: Always evaluate the content for accuracy and appropriateness.)
- Books and articles on youth ministry: These resources can provide valuable insights and strategies for effective teaching.
By implementing these suggestions and tailoring them to your specific group, you can create impactful Come Follow Me lessons that inspire youth to learn, grow, and deepen their relationship with the Savior. Remember, the most effective lessons are those that are born from prayer, guided by the Spirit, and tailored to the unique needs and experiences of the youth you serve.
