Women of Influence in Student Ministry
Women who faithfully serve in Youth Ministry are the heart and soul of reaching and discipling students. They play a vital role and their contribution to the cause of Christ will only be measured in eternity.
As a consultant to Local Churches, I have the privilege of working alongside great Student Ministry leaders who are having a global impact. Some of the most effective of these leaders are women who are passionate about evangelism, discipleship, missions and leadership development.
I want to introduce you to three such women of influence.
• Kristen Carr served as the discipleship coordinator at First Baptist, Atlanta, GA for six years and now ministers with her husband at First Baptist, Longview, TX. She is an author and speaker.
• Cheryl Fawcett has been in Student Ministry for 35 years. She has served in churches like Shadow Mountain, San Diego, CA as well as teaching at Cedarville College. She serves now as a Youth Ministry Specialist with ABWE and is a premiere teacher.
• Lauren Hall has ministered at Second Baptist, Houston, TX for over twelve years. She not only coordinates the girl’s discipleship ministry but also serves as a strategic player/administrator for the Student Ministry of all five campuses.
I asked them to answer two questions about their role in Student Ministry and I want to share their insights.
1. What is your passion for Student Ministry?
Kristen: I cannot express how heavy my heart is for teen girls worldwide to know the truth that God thinks they are beautiful. It is my passion to train up a generation of young women to reflect the glory they have been given by God. I want to help them walk confidently in their value to the Father.
Cheryl: I am passionate about training students and youth ministry leaders for missions around the world. I teach workshops and seminars plus hold youth events in cooperation Local Church and Missionary leaders.
Lauren: My passion for ministry is fueled by life change. I am continually amazed at the way people’s lives are changed by the truth of Jesus Christ. Redemption, restoration, growing in wisdom or a change in life direction are all things I have a front row seat to see play out in students and leaders and there is nothing like it.
2. What one piece of advice would you share with other women in Student Ministry?
Kristen: I believe great victory comes for each of us when we learn to recognize common pit falls. Some of those pitfalls are attempting to fit a particular mold for the “ideal Girls Minister,” giving into the enticing powers of a competitive spirit or allowing our emotions to dictate our attitude or actions. We must choose to set our eyes on Christ and rest in His power and love.
Cheryl: Be faithful in serving with your local church whether you are on staff or not. Engage in the ministry where you are and watch as God expands your outreach.
Lauren: Keep your focus straight ahead. It is so easy to look around, be distracted and lose focus. When you lose focus you begin to compare yourself to others, worry about things you don’t have, dwell on something you are not good at or become frustrated because you are not getting the recognition you think you deserve.
These are just three of the many women who are influencing a generation for Christ. I would love to hear from you about others Women of Influence in your ministry.
