Connecting with students is what we long for. It’s what we encourage you to be doing. We all know that “real” ministry and discipleship happens more effectively over a Starbucks coffee or on the basketball court. Trouble is, in today’s culture, these connections can lead to unhealthy accusations and the blurring of clear boundaries if we are not careful. Here are a few boundaries we have in place for the protection of both our students and our volunteer staff.
- Let someone know: When volunteers are meeting with students, we ask them to drop one of our paid staff an email and let us know. Not so we can micro-manage, but so we can cover their back and, with good conscience, let others know what is going on in the ministry.
- Three is not a crowd: Although the one on one meeting is a great chance for in depth conversation, it’s becoming a thing of the past. It is usually better to take two kids with you that one.
- Use your head: Sometimes there are situations that come up that dictate you do something you may not normally do. In all situations, use your head. Remember number 1 above and make a few phone calls when placed in a difficult situation. Never assume that you’ll be okay or that “just this once” you’ll take care of this or that.
What boundaries to you have set up in your ministry?
1 comment:
Great post! I have learned over the past few years that taking a couple of students out to lunch is better than just taking one. I like the idea of covering your volunteers back by having them shoot you an email, or give you a quick call. I'll pass that along to them.
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