An Events Mentality with Head to the Heart™ Confirmation
It’s difficult to avoid the bone-crushing power of the “C” word: Confirmation. In most mainline denominations, this word has taken on a life of its own, with more baggage than an airport terminal.
When talking about Head to the Heart (H2H), we sometimes get some pushback when we speak of the “events” mentality of our system. It’s hard for people to lose the old idea of confirmation as a “sit-in-rows-and-listen” classroom experience. We challenge pastors and parents to think of our Theme Events as more than just class, but as events and as more than instruction but ministry. To do this, and do it well, you first need to lose all the baggage of the past.
Somewhere along the line, we concluded that lecture is the best way to tackle confirmation education. However, as brain research tells us, lecture is the least effective way to reach adolescents. Despite this, many churches continue with a lecture approach to education. Why? Is it because they have some magic system that makes their lectures more engaging? Or is it that most pastors and youth workers are overworked and overwhelmed, and prefer the path of least resistance when it comes to running a confirmation program?
Whatever the reason, H2H churches that think in terms of “events-teaching” have better success. So, the question is, how do you think with an “events mentality?” It’s simple, really: pace, punch, and personal attention.
When we talk about “pace”, we mean being intentional about moving things along at a brisk pace. Pay attention to transitions between event segments and make sure everyone involved watches the clock.
“Punch” deals with effectiveness, especially when it comes to the Presentation. Please don’t settle for a presentation that is another sermon in disguise. Challenge yourself or your presenter to make use of the wealth of material in the H2H Leader’s Guide planning section (and pepper it with your own additions) to create a talk that is interesting and engaging.
“Personal attention” deals with contact with your kids. Make sure every kid is welcomed when they enter and are made to feel special with a pat on the back or a high five. Train your leaders to be on the lookout for their kids and to be proactive about welcoming and gathering them together as a small group. Show your kids that the adults are happy to have them there.
Easy, huh? Well, maybe not for one person, but with an assistant or small team of people all focused on a specific part of the evening, you can put together a meaningful and fun Theme Event for your kids that transcends the standard lecture.