Youth Elders

If anyone out there need specific examples of the value of a youth Elder, let me know

• The Session should have at least one Elder who is a youth (under 18 not under 50).
  • They need to be a full Elder not a “youth Elder” without ordination.
  • Some of the best Elders I have seen were teens. Their churches would have been deprived if they had not elected and ordained those people.
  • Most youth Elders are elected for one year terms, which is problematic (all Elders are clueless their first year) but this is hard to overcome. One church was talking about two youths serving two years each. Another elected them for a three year term in their Sophomore year so they could serve 2 1/2 years before leaving for College.
  • Before their election, take the youth aside and make sure they understand that this is not a figurehead position but they are under the same obligations as any other Elder. They are expected to be at the meetings, prepared and involved. They are to provide their unique insight and effort.
  • Do not let anyone cut the youth slack – they don't need it any more than anyone else. This is just an attempt to put the youth aside.