When it comes to methods of identifying and forming leaders in youth ministry, a resource available for youth ministers is the methodology used by both Girl Scouts USA and the Boy Scouts of America. The National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) publishes the Religious Emblems Reference Manual that outlines how to identify and welcome counselors who will be instrumental in supporting the religious emblems program in the local scouting unit. The National Catholic Committee for Girl Scouts and Camp Fire (NCCGSCF) has a similar document titled the Catholic Religious Recognition Moderator Training Manual. While each of these manuals is written specifically to address the nuts and bolts of how to prepare leaders for the religious emblems and recognitions programs, the leadership development methodology can easily be adapted for youth ministry. While many of the volunteers who help in our ministries are people we already know and have a relationship with, the method below is designed for dealing with those whom we may only know from a ministry survey or a ‘cold call’ by someone wanting to get more involved with your ministry.

Step One: Background Check

The first step for preparing leaders is to do a background check. This includes ensuring that the perspective leader is in compliance with your diocesan policies for working with young people. In many dioceses, volunteers are required to fill out an application, much like one would for a job. Use the information from this application to call people who know the prospective leader and find out more about this person. While it may seem difficult or uncomfortable to call on references and to pry into someone’s background, the things you learn about a prospective leader will be invaluable. If this step is done well, you should have a clear understanding of the suitability this person has for being in a position of trust with young people.

Step Two: Personal Visit and Interview

The next stage of preparing leaders is to arrange a personal visit with the prospective leader. This is your chance to learn more about the candidate and how they may fit into your comprehensive youth ministry strategies. If the volunteer already expresses interest in a particular area, use this time to explain the various duties and responsibilities of the program and leadership. If your prospective leader in not sure where they want to be involved, this personal visit is a great opportunity for you to present the options you have available as well as a leadership job description that outlines your expectations for people serving in each leadership role.

Step Three: Pastor’s Approval

After interviewing the candidate, the next step is to get the pastor’s support. Since a pastor is responsible for everything that goes on in his parish, make sure he knows who is involved. Talking with your pastor about new leaders in your ministry is a great way to keep him informed about your ministry in general, so use this opportunity to continually strengthen your relationship with your boss!

With the pastor’s approval, formation can begin. The NCCGSCF and NCCS manuals provide outlines and timelines for the training programs for the religious emblems and recognitions. The needs of your ministry will determine how extensive of a formation program you will need for your volunteers. Once the formation has been completed, you are ready to commission your new leader as a partner in your ministry efforts!

Step Four: Support

The final step for leadership development is support. Support can come in a variety of ways. The NCCS manual recommends a systematic in-service training program for the religious emblems counselors, covering topics such as reviewing the religious emblems promotional efforts, learning about any changes on the requirements for any of the emblems programs, and an open discussion on any problems counselors have encountered or suggestions they might have to improve the program. The goal of supporting your new leaders is to let them know that they are not left to fend for themselves in their leadership role. Some leaders will need a lot of support while others will not. Each ministry situation will determine how much and how often support is needed.